Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake: A Refreshing, Tangy Delight!

If you love the bright, zesty flavor of lemon paired with rich, creamy goodness, then this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is about to become your new favorite dessert. This dessert is a perfect combination of tangy lemon pie filling, smooth cream cheese, and buttery cake, all topped with a sweet finish. It’s an incredibly easy, dump-and-bake recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort—ideal for any occasion!

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, attending a potluck, or just craving something sweet, this dessert will impress everyone and have them asking for seconds. With only a few ingredients, you’ll have a warm, comforting cake ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake:

What makes this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake so special is how easy it is to prepare yet how much flavor it delivers. The combination of the tangy lemon pie filling with the creamy, sweetened cream cheese creates a beautiful contrast with the moist, buttery cake topping. The result is a cake that’s not too sweet, not too tart, but perfectly balanced.

This recipe is simple to follow, with minimal prep time, and it’s a great choice when you want a dessert that will impress without a lot of fuss. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will disappear from the dessert table faster than you can say “lemon cake”!

Ingredients:

1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix

1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

1/4 cup lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)

Optional Toppings:

Whipped cream

Fresh lemon slices or zest

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, so your cake doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Spread the lemon pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. The pie filling will serve as the sweet, tangy base of the cake.

In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the lemon pie filling, making sure to distribute it evenly.

Now, sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly on top of the cream cheese layer. The cake mix will act as the top crust that will bake up golden and crisp.

Step 3: Add the Butter
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix. The butter will help create a rich, crispy crust on top of the cake as it bakes. For an added boost of lemon flavor, drizzle the lemon juice over the top as well.

Step 4: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes to allow the layers to set before serving.

Step 5: Serve
Serve your cake warm or at room temperature. For extra flair, top it with whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or fresh lemon zest. The cake is just as delicious on its own, but these toppings make it even more special!

Pro Tips:

Extra Lemon Flavor: For a stronger lemon punch, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture. It will enhance the citrus flavor and make your cake even more refreshing.

Even Butter Distribution: To ensure the melted butter covers the cake mix evenly, use a spoon or a pastry brush to spread it out. This will help the cake top bake more evenly and create a crisp, golden crust.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also enjoy it cold, or reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy the warm, gooey texture once again.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare this cake a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it, allow it to cool, and cover it until you’re ready to serve. When reheating, warm it up in the oven for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.

Q: Can I use another type of cake mix?
A: While the lemon cake mix is what makes this dessert so special, you can experiment with other flavors like yellow cake mix or vanilla cake mix if you prefer a more subtle base. The lemon pie filling will still provide that perfect citrusy tang.

Q: Is there a way to make this cake a little less sweet?
A: If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture to 1/4 cup instead of 1/2 cup. The lemon pie filling already adds sweetness, so you won’t miss much!

Q: Can I add fresh lemon zest to the top?
A: Absolutely! Adding fresh lemon zest as a garnish before serving will give it an extra fresh pop of flavor and enhance the lemony taste. It also makes for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions:

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few ideas:

Top it off: For a beautiful presentation, garnish with whipped cream, fresh lemon slices, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. A sprinkle of lemon zest will also brighten it up.

Pair with drinks: Serve with a cup of iced tea or a glass of sparkling water to balance the sweetness of the cake with something refreshing. A chilled glass of lemonade would be a perfect match!

For special occasions: Bring this cake to your next potluck, family gathering, or party. It’s easy to make in large batches and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. It’s also perfect for spring and summer gatherings thanks to its fresh, bright flavor.

Timing and Servings:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Bake Time: 40-45 minutes

Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Servings: 12-15 servings (depending on portion size)

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the perfect dessert for those who love fresh, citrusy flavors balanced with creamy indulgence. It’s a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing treat that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or just treating yourself to a sweet indulgence, this dessert is bound to brighten your day! 🍋✨

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