Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake: A Simple, Zesty Dessert

If you’re craving a bright and tangy dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, look no further than this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake. With just a few ingredients, this dessert comes together effortlessly and bakes into a warm, gooey treat that’s bursting with lemon flavor. The tangy lemon pie filling and creamy cheese layer combine perfectly with the light, buttery cake topping, creating a dessert that’s both rich and refreshing.

Ideal for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or when you’re just in the mood for something sweet, this dump cake requires minimal prep and only a few ingredients. The magic of dump cakes is in their simplicity—everything is layered in one pan and baked to perfection without the need for complex mixing or fuss. Whether served with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or on its own, this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is sure to become your go-to dessert when you need something quick yet indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless to Make: Just dump and bake—no mixing, no fuss.
2. Bright, Zesty Flavor: The combination of lemon pie filling and cream cheese creates a sweet and tangy dessert.
3. Perfectly Creamy: The cream cheese adds richness and a smooth texture that contrasts beautifully with the light, airy cake top.
4. Quick and Easy: With only 4 ingredients, this dessert is ready in under an hour.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dessert that appeals to both lemon lovers and those who prefer creamy, indulgent treats.

Ingredients

• Lemon cake mix
• Lemon pie filling (21 oz can)
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted)

Variations

• Add Fruit: Stir in fresh or frozen berries, like blueberries or raspberries, for an extra burst of flavor.
• Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the top layer for a tropical vibe.
• Different Pie Filling: Swap out the lemon pie filling for other flavors like cherry, apple, or blueberry for a new variation.
• Topping Upgrade: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) on top before baking.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Start by spreading the lemon pie filling evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of softened cream cheese over the pie filling, distributing it as evenly as possible.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and pie filling. Don’t mix it—just let it sit on top.

Step 4: Drizzle Butter

Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. Make sure to cover as much of the mix as possible to ensure a golden, crispy top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s great warm or at room temperature. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Stir: One of the key features of a dump cake is not mixing the layers—just layer the ingredients as directed for the best results.
• Cream Cheese Texture: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before adding it to the cake to avoid clumps.
• Even Cake Mix Distribution: Try to spread the cake mix evenly for a consistent golden layer.
• Butter Coverage: Drizzling the butter evenly over the cake mix is essential to achieving a crisp, golden top.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the cake while it’s warm, right after it’s cooled slightly.

How to Serve

This cake is delicious on its own, but for extra indulgence, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. A few fresh berries or a drizzle of lemon glaze would also be delightful on top for added flavor and color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, any cake mix flavor would work. Yellow or white cake mix would be especially tasty if you want a more subtle flavor.

2. Do I need to mix the ingredients?

No, the beauty of a dump cake is that you layer the ingredients and don’t stir them.

3. Can I use a different pie filling flavor?

Absolutely! You can swap out the lemon pie filling for any fruit pie filling you prefer, such as cherry or apple.

4. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, the recipe is vegetarian as it doesn’t contain any meat-based products.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cake in advance and bake it the day of serving. You can also bake it ahead and reheat it.

6. Can I make this without cream cheese?

The cream cheese gives the cake a rich, creamy texture, but you can omit it for a simpler version or replace it with a dairy-free option like coconut cream.

7. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well. Just make sure it is cooled completely before freezing.

8. Can I add other ingredients to the cake mix?

You can customize the cake mix with extra add-ins like shredded coconut, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for more texture and flavor.

9. How do I prevent the top from getting too dry?

Make sure the butter is evenly distributed over the cake mix for the best texture and crispiness.

10. Can I use a different size baking dish?

If you use a different size, the baking time might change slightly. Stick to a 9×13-inch dish for the best results.

Conclusion

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone looking for something quick, simple, and delicious. With its creamy, tangy lemon flavor and golden, buttery top, this cake will satisfy your sweet tooth in no time. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or simply treating yourself, this easy-to-make dessert is a guaranteed hit that everyone will love. Try it today and enjoy a slice of comfort in every bite!

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