Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

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There’s something magical about a dessert that’s simple to make yet tastes like it took hours of effort. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake! With just a handful of pantry staples and a foolproof layering method, this dessert combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the creamy decadence of cream cheese. Whether you’re making this for a family gathering or a cozy weekend treat, it’s bound to steal the show.

Ready to dive into this citrusy delight? Let’s get baking! Don’t forget to subscribe to my email list so you never miss out on recipes like this one.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

1. Quick and Easy: This dessert requires no mixing bowls, fancy techniques, or extra fuss. Just layer, bake, and enjoy!
2. Bursting with Flavor: The tartness of the lemon pie filling is perfectly balanced by the creamy richness of the cream cheese and buttery cake topping.
3. Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert always gets rave reviews, making it perfect for parties, potlucks, or whenever you’re in need of a feel-good treat.
4. Customizable: With just a few tweaks, you can create variations that suit your preferences (see the substitution section below!).

What Does Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Taste Like?

Imagine biting into a dessert where tangy lemon meets creamy pockets of melted cream cheese, all topped with a buttery, slightly crispy cake crust. It’s rich, refreshing, and indulgent, with the perfect balance of sweet and tart. The edges offer a delightful crunch, while the center stays gooey and luxurious. Trust me—one bite and you’ll be hooked.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Minimal Ingredients: Only four simple ingredients are needed, many of which you might already have on hand.
• Versatility: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or let it cool for a sliceable dessert bar.
• Perfect for Beginners: Even if you’re new to baking, this dump cake is virtually foolproof.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this irresistible dessert, gather the following:

• 1 can (16 oz) lemon pie filling: The heart of the dessert, providing that signature citrusy tang.
• 1 package (15 oz) yellow cake mix: Adds a light and sweet cake layer with a touch of buttery flavor.
• 4 oz cream cheese, cubed: Creamy pockets of heaven that balance the tartness of the lemon.
• 1/2 cup butter, sliced: Melts during baking to create a golden, crumbly topping.

Necessary Tools for Preparation

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
• Knife and cutting board (to cube the cream cheese and slice the butter)
• Spatula (for spreading the lemon pie filling)

Possible Additions and Substitutions

• Add Some Zest: Sprinkle fresh lemon zest over the top for an extra citrusy kick.
• Swap the Cake Mix: Try white or lemon-flavored cake mix for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Boost the Cream Cheese: Double the cream cheese for an even richer dessert.
• Top with Extras: Add shredded coconut, chopped pecans, or a handful of white chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

1. Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Layer the Lemon Pie Filling

Spread the can of lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish. This will form the tangy base of the cake.

3. Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the lemon pie filling. Resist the urge to stir—it’s the layering that gives this cake its distinctive texture.

4. Distribute the Cream Cheese

Scatter the cubed cream cheese over the surface of the cake mix. Be sure to space the cubes evenly for a consistent burst of creaminess in every bite.

5. Top with Butter

Place the butter slices evenly over the top. As the cake bakes, the butter will melt and create a golden, crumbly topping.

6. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The edges should be slightly crisp, while the center remains gooey.

7. Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool for about 10–15 minutes before serving. Serve warm with ice cream or let it cool completely for a firmer texture.

What to Serve with Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds a creamy contrast to the tangy lemon.
• Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it complements the richness of the dessert.
• Fresh Berries: Raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries add a refreshing touch.
• Lemon Curd Drizzle: For an extra burst of citrus, drizzle lemon curd over each slice.

Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Dump Cake

• Don’t Stir the Layers: It’s tempting, but the magic of a dump cake lies in its layered construction.
• Use Cold Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese is easier to cube and distribute evenly.
• Check for Doneness: Look for a golden, bubbly top, and make sure the edges are slightly crisp.

How to Store Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use homemade lemon pie filling?

Absolutely! If you have homemade lemon pie filling on hand, it will add a fresh, homemade touch to this dessert.

What if I don’t have yellow cake mix?

White or lemon cake mix works just as well and will slightly alter the flavor. Experiment to find your favorite!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This cake is just as delicious when made a day ahead. Simply refrigerate and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. With its bright citrus flavor, creamy pockets of cream cheese, and buttery golden topping, this dessert is a true delight. Perfect for any occasion, it’s as easy as it is irresistible.

If you love this recipe, you’ll also adore my Billion Dollar Buttery Biscuits for a rich and flaky treat. Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest—I’d love to see your creations!

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