If you’re craving something sweet, tangy, and irresistibly gooey, this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the answer! True to its name, this dessert is as simple as dumping a few ingredients into a baking dish and letting the magic happen in the oven. The combination of zesty lemon pie filling, creamy pockets of cream cheese, and the buttery, golden topping makes this dessert both indulgent and effortless.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Effort: With just 4 ingredients and no mixing bowls required, this is the ultimate lazy-day dessert.
- Bright and Tangy: Lemon lovers rejoice—this cake is bursting with citrusy flavor!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a potluck, dinner party, or a family treat, this cake is always a hit.
- Versatile: Swap out flavors or add toppings to customize it your way.
What Does Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Taste Like?
It’s the perfect marriage of sweet and tart. The lemon pie filling provides a bright, zesty base, while the buttery cake mix and pockets of cream cheese add richness. The result is a dessert that’s both decadent and refreshing—a delightful combination that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
To make a 9×13-inch pan of this luscious cake, you’ll need:
- 1 can (16 oz) lemon pie filling
- 1 package (15 oz) yellow cake mix
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup butter, sliced
Optional: Powdered sugar or whipped cream for topping.
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Knife for slicing butter and cream cheese
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the pie filling—do not mix!
- Place the cream cheese cubes evenly across the top of the cake mix.
- Arrange the butter slices on top, ensuring they’re distributed evenly to cover as much of the surface as possible.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Dump Cake
- Spread Ingredients Evenly: For even baking, make sure the butter and cream cheese are distributed across the top.
- Don’t Mix: Resist the urge to stir the layers—this is what creates the signature texture of a dump cake.
- Let It Cool Slightly: Allowing the cake to rest for a few minutes helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
- Use Real Butter: Margarine won’t give the same rich flavor or texture as butter.
Variations and Add-Ons
- Add Fresh Berries: Sprinkle fresh blueberries or raspberries over the pie filling for added texture and flavor.
- Switch the Cake Mix: Try white cake mix or lemon cake mix for a more citrus-forward dessert.
- Top It Off: Dust with powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Make It Nutty: Add chopped pecans or almonds on top of the cake mix for a crunchy twist.
How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Warm and Gooey: Serve straight out of the oven for a comforting dessert.
- With Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
- Room Temperature: Let it cool completely for a firmer texture, perfect for slicing into bars.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
- Freeze: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different pie filling?
Yes! While lemon is a classic choice, you can use cherry, blueberry, or apple pie filling for a new flavor profile.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time as needed, checking for doneness.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
You can try using a dairy-free butter substitute and vegan cream cheese, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Why You’ll Make This Again
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the perfect dessert for when you want something easy, delicious, and guaranteed to impress. Its bright lemony flavor, creamy texture, and buttery topping are irresistible, and the simplicity of the recipe means you can whip it up anytime a craving strikes.
If you give this recipe a try, let me know how it turned out in the comments below or tag me in your photos on Pinterest—I’d love to see your creations!
Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approx.):
Calories: 290 | Fat: 15g | Carbs: 37g | Protein: 2g
Looking for more easy dessert ideas? Try my Peach Cobbler Dump Cake or Chocolate-Cherry Slow Cooker Cake for more no-fuss indulgence! 🍋✨