Hello, lovely friends! Today, I’m bringing you a dessert that’s as easy as it is irresistible: Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake. If you’re new to dump cakes, prepare to have your dessert game changed forever! This recipe is one of my go-to treats for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings because it requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.
Imagine the tangy brightness of lemon pie filling mingling with the rich creaminess of cream cheese, all nestled under a buttery, golden cake crust. It’s pure magic in every bite! Let’s dive right in so you can see just how simple (and delicious) this dessert is.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (16 oz.) can lemon pie filling
- 1 (15 oz.) package yellow cake mix
- 4 oz. cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, thinly sliced
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake:
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a square baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will help ensure your cake comes out easily after baking. - Layer the Lemon Pie Filling
Pour the lemon pie filling into the bottom of the prepared dish, spreading it evenly into the corners. The tangy lemon base sets the stage for all the deliciousness to come. - Add the Cake Mix and Cream Cheese
Sprinkle half of the cake mix evenly over the pie filling. Then, scatter the cubed cream cheese on top of the mix. Finally, add the remaining cake mix in an even layer. - Top with Butter
Take your thinly sliced butter pats and arrange them in a single layer over the surface of the cake. The butter will melt and seep into the cake mix, creating a luscious, golden crust. - Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen with a tantalizing mix of buttery cake and citrusy goodness. - Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This step allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve.
Helpful Tips for Success:
- Butter Slices: Ensure your butter is sliced thinly and distributed evenly. This helps create a consistent crust.
- Cream Cheese: Cube the cream cheese small for even melting and distribution.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so check your cake at the 35-minute mark. The top should be golden and firm, and the center cooked through.
Substitutions & Variations:
- Pie Filling Swap: While lemon is divine, feel free to use other fruit pie fillings like cherry, blueberry, or apple.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free alternative for a celiac-friendly dessert.
- Topping Ideas: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra flair.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cake stays moist and delicious!
- Reheating: Warm a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
- Freezing: This cake freezes well! Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
More Recipes You’ll Love:
- Cherry Cheesecake Trifle: A Deliciously Easy Dessert
I can’t wait for you to try this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake! Whether it’s for a weekend treat, a family dinner, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, this dessert is guaranteed to bring smiles all around. If you make it, let me know how it turns out in the comments below. And don’t forget to share the love by pinning or sharing this recipe with your friends.
Happy baking!
PrintLemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8-10 1x
Description
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a dreamy dessert that’s tangy, creamy, and oh-so-easy to make. With layers of bright lemon pie filling, buttery cake, and pockets of rich cream cheese, it’s perfect for any occasion! Just a few simple ingredients come together to create a golden, bubbly dessert your family will rave about.
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz.) can lemon pie filling
- 1 (15 oz.) package yellow cake mix
- 4 oz. cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a square baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly into the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle half of the yellow cake mix over the pie filling.
- Distribute the cubed cream cheese evenly across the cake mix.
- Add the remaining cake mix in an even layer on top.
- Lay thin slices of butter over the cake mix, ensuring it covers as much of the surface as possible.
- Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For the best results, ensure the butter slices are as thin as possible to evenly moisten the cake mix.
- This recipe is versatile—swap lemon pie filling for another flavor if desired.
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert