Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s as simple to make as it is irresistibly delicious, the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is an absolute must-try. This delightful treat perfectly balances tangy lemon pie filling with creamy, dreamy cream cheese and a buttery golden cake topping that bakes up tender and bursting with flavor. The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the kind of dessert that brings a burst of sunshine to any table, effortlessly combining bright citrus notes with rich creaminess in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in the most straightforward way, yet each plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture and taste. From the zingy lemon pie filling that lends brightness to the luscious cream cheese mixture, every component is essential to creating a harmonious dessert experience.

• Yellow cake mix: Provides a sweet, tender crumb and golden crust that complements the lemon beautifully.
• Lemon pie filling (21 oz can): Adds a vibrant, zesty citrus flavor and smooth texture that is the backbone of the cake.
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Brings a silky, rich creaminess that balances the tart lemon filling perfectly.
• Butter (½ cup, melted): Creates a moist, buttery topping that helps the cake mix bake up with a delicious crust.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and smooths the cream cheese mixture for that luscious mouthfeel.

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cake won’t stick. This step is key for easy serving later and ensures every bite slides right out of the pan.

Step 2: Spread the Lemon Pie Filling

Pour the entire can of lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. This juicy base infuses the cake with bold tartness and keeps each mouthful delightfully moist.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Mix until completely smooth and creamy. This layer adds that irresistible, velvety richness that balances the lemon’s zing.

Step 4: Layer the Cream Cheese Mixture

Drop spoonfuls of your cream cheese mixture over the lemon filling and gently spread it around. You don’t need perfection here—little swirls and dollops add to the dreaminess of each bite.

Step 5: Add the Cake Mix

Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. This simple step creates the signature “dump” cake topping that soaks up butter and bakes to golden, crispy perfection.

Step 6: Drizzle with Melted Butter

Drizzle the melted butter all over the cake mix layer. This step is critical—it’s what transforms the dry cake mix into a luscious, buttery crust with beautiful golden color and a slight crunch.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cake for 40 to 45 minutes until the top turns golden and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are lightly browned and the filling is simmering gently underneath that golden cover.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake cool slightly before serving. This resting time allows the layers to set just enough so that each slice holds together with a perfect balance of gooey filling and cakey topping.

How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Garnishes

For an extra-special presentation, consider topping each serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of vanilla ice cream. Fresh lemon zest or a few candied lemon slices can add an eye-catching pop of color and zingy freshness that complements the cake’s flavor perfectly.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a light, refreshing side such as a mixed berry salad or minty cucumber water. These cool contrasts balance the richness and highlight the cake’s citrus brightness, making your dessert experience feel like a complete treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake in individual ramekins or even mason jars for a charming, personalized touch. You can also create parfait layers with whipped cream and sliced strawberries for an elegant look and delightful texture variation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any uneaten Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the creamy filling fresh and the topping tender, ideal for enjoying whenever a citrus craving strikes.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or serving chilled.

Reheating

To warm leftovers, gently heat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or reheat in a low oven (around 300°F) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This brings back the soft, buttery texture and fresh lemon aroma effortlessly.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pie filling?

Absolutely! While lemon pie filling gives the cake its signature tang, you can experiment with cherry, blueberry, or even apple pie fillings for different fruity twists. Each will change the flavor profile but keep the same comforting texture.

Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese first?

Softened cream cheese blends smoothly with powdered sugar, creating the perfect creamy layer. If the cream cheese is too cold, it can be lumpy and harder to spread, so a little room temperature patience goes a long way!

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix of your choice. Just be sure all other ingredients, especially the pie filling, are gluten-free as well for a safe, delicious dessert.

What’s the best way to serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake?

Serving it slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream really highlights the luscious layers and brings out the lovely lemon flavor in every bite.

Can I halve the recipe?

Yes, you can easily make a smaller portion by halving all ingredients and using an 8×8-inch baking dish. Just keep an eye on the baking time as it may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is one of those magical desserts that feels homemade yet somehow effortless. With its sunny lemon zing, creamy layers, and buttery crunchy topping, it’s perfect for any occasion that calls for a sweet smile. I absolutely encourage you to give this recipe a whirl—the ease and deliciousness are sure to make it a new favorite you’ll want to share again and again.

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