Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, let me introduce you to my all-time favorite: Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering. The creamy layer of cream cheese paired with the tangy lemon pie filling creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Plus, it couldn’t be easier to make—just mix, dump, and bake!

What I love most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. You don’t have to worry about complicated steps or fancy decorations. Just gather your ingredients and let the oven do the magic. Trust me; it’s going to be a hit with everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this cake in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: The delicious combination of cream cheese and lemon wins over both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare this dessert in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
• Irresistible flavor: The blend of creamy and tangy makes each bite truly memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake. You probably have most of them in your kitchen already! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 16 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 10 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing the baking dish
• 1 (13.25 to 15.25-ounce) box yellow, butter, or lemon cake mix
• 1 (21-ounce) can lemon pie filling, divided
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Try different fruit fillings: Substitute lemon pie filling with blueberry or cherry for a fruity twist.
• Add some zest: Mix in some freshly grated lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Go gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and enjoy this dessert without worry.
• Top with nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking for added crunch.

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that our cake bakes evenly from the moment we put it in. Also, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with some melted butter to help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and kosher salt until smooth and creamy. This step is essential because it creates that luscious base layer that makes our cake so special.

Step 3: Incorporate the Egg

Add in one large egg to your mixture and mix until fully incorporated. This helps bind everything together and gives our cake structure as it bakes.

Step 4: Spread Evenly

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. It’s important for this layer to be uniform so that every bite has that rich cream cheese goodness.

Step 5: Add the Lemon Pie Filling

Spoon the lemon pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly. The tangy sweetness of the pie filling perfectly complements the creamy base—trust me; you’re going to love this combination!

Step 6: Sprinkle on Cake Mix

Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the lemon pie filling without stirring. This will create a lovely crumbly topping as it bakes—so don’t skip this step!

Step 7: Drizzle Remaining Butter

Pour any remaining melted butter over the cake mix. This will help achieve a golden brown crust on top as it bakes.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Bake your masterpiece for about 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be pure bliss!

Step 9: Cool Slightly

Once baked, let it cool slightly before serving. This will give everything a chance to set up nicely.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired. Each bite will be bursting with flavor—enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Creating this delightful dessert is a breeze, but a few pro tips can elevate your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake to the next level!

• Use room temperature cream cheese: This ensures that your mixture will be smooth and creamy, avoiding any lumps that can result from cold cream cheese.

• Don’t skip the melting butter: Melting the butter before adding it to the cake mix helps create a crispy, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers below.

• Spread evenly: When layering the cream cheese mixture and lemon pie filling, spreading them evenly helps ensure that each bite has a perfect balance of flavors.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking for doneness at around 40 minutes; you’re looking for a golden-brown top that’s bubbly but not burnt!

• Let it cool slightly: Allowing your dump cake to cool gives it time to set up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve while still being warm and gooey.

How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy evening at home, here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A couple of sprigs add a pop of color and freshness that complements the lemon flavor beautifully.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of zest over the top adds visual appeal and enhances the citrus aroma, tantalizing your guests before they even take a bite.

Side Dishes

• Berry Salad: A mix of fresh berries tossed in a light vinaigrette makes for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dump cake.
• Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits can provide a light, creamy side that balances out the sweetness of the cake.
• Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats are easy to make and add another layer of texture alongside your dessert. Their subtle coconut flavor pairs wonderfully with lemon!
• Green Salad with Citrus Dressing: A crisp green salad dressed with citrus vinaigrette introduces a tangy element that brightens up your meal while complementing the flavors in your cake.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is perfect for meal prep, making it a great addition to your dessert lineup. You can easily store leftovers or even make it ahead of time for gatherings!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature.
• Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• After the cake has cooled, cut it into individual portions.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delightful dessert, here are some common questions!

Can I use a different flavor of pie filling for the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake?

Absolutely! While lemon pie filling gives this dessert its signature tang, feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings like cherry or blueberry for a different flavor twist.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake?

You might consider adding zest from one lemon to the cream cheese mixture before baking. It will elevate that bright citrus taste!

Is this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake suitable for special diets?

This recipe is flexible! You can swap out traditional ingredients for gluten-free cake mix and use dairy-free cream cheese if needed.

Can I make this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving for optimal enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake as I am to share it with you! It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just treating yourself after a long day, this dessert is sure to bring a smile. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones — happy baking!