Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
There’s nothing quite like the bright, zesty flavor of lemon combined with the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese. This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the perfect dessert when you need something easy, delicious, and guaranteed to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a sweet, tangy, and buttery treat in no time.
Dump cakes are a staple in effortless baking, and this lemony twist makes it an ideal spring or summer dessert. The vibrant citrus flavor pairs beautifully with the richness of cream cheese and the irresistible golden crust of cake mix. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a warm, comforting dessert, this recipe is a must-try.
If you’re a fan of sweet and tart flavor combinations, this cake will quickly become one of your favorites. It strikes the perfect balance between tangy lemon pie filling, smooth cream cheese, and the crisp, golden-brown topping. And the best part? No complicated mixing or baking skills required—just dump, bake, and enjoy!
Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or last-minute desserts, this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a crowd-pleaser. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: No need for extensive prep—just layer and bake.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like boxed cake mix and canned pie filling.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknights, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
- Irresistibly Delicious: The combination of lemon, cream cheese, and buttery cake is pure perfection.
Perfect Pairings
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the tangy lemon perfectly.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it balances out the richness of the cake.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a fresh burst of flavor.
- Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar and lemon juice glaze for extra zing.
Tips for the Best Lemon Dump Cake
- Use Softened Cream Cheese: This makes it easier to blend and creates a smoother texture.
- Don’t Stir the Layers: Keeping the layers separate ensures the signature “dump cake” texture.
- Even Butter Distribution: Drizzle butter as evenly as possible to get a golden, crispy topping.
- Add a Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for a bit of texture.
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Ingredients
- 1 21-ounce can lemon pie filling
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 box yellow or white cake mix
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drop dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the pie filling.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top—do not mix it in.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix, making sure to cover as much as possible.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with ice cream or whipped cream!
Variations & Alternatives
- Lemon & Blueberry: Add fresh or frozen blueberries for a delicious fruity twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix for a celiac-friendly version.
- Extra Tangy: Stir a bit of lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture for a brighter citrus flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter to make it lactose-free.
Common Questions
Can I use fresh lemon curd instead of pie filling?
Yes! If you have homemade lemon curd, you can use it instead of canned pie filling for an even fresher lemon flavor.
What can I use instead of yellow cake mix?
White cake mix, lemon cake mix, or even vanilla cake mix work just as well.
Does this cake need to be refrigerated?
Yes, because of the cream cheese, store leftovers in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake it ahead and store it in the fridge, then warm it up when ready to serve.
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its luscious lemon filling, creamy cheesecake-like center, and buttery cake topping, it’s the ultimate treat for lemon lovers. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this easy dessert is always a hit. Try it today and see why everyone loves a good dump cake!
