How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
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The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
Few desserts can match the delightful combination of tangy lemon and rich cream cheese in a dump cake. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or need a last-minute dessert for guests, this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a fail-proof choice. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional baker—this recipe is so easy that anyone can make it!
What is a Dump Cake?
If you’ve never made a dump cake, you’re in for a treat. Unlike traditional cakes that require precise mixing and measuring, a dump cake is all about layering ingredients in a baking dish and letting the oven do the work. The result is a buttery, gooey, and irresistibly sweet dessert that melts in your mouth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Minimal effort – No need for fancy baking skills.
- Few ingredients – You likely have most of them at home.
- Big flavor payoff – The creamy, zesty lemon taste is unbeatable.
Ingredients for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Before you start baking, gather your ingredients.
Essential Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lemon cake mix | 1 box |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz (softened) |
| Lemon pie filling | 1 can (21 oz) |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (melted) |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Powdered sugar (optional) | For topping |
Ingredient Notes:
- Cake Mix: You can use white, yellow, or vanilla cake mix if you don’t have lemon.
- Lemon Pie Filling: Homemade lemon curd works too.
- Butter: Use real butter, not margarine, for the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s start baking!
1. Preheat & Prepare
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly in the baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the lemon filling.
- Sprinkle the lemon cake mix evenly over the top.
- Drizzle melted butter all over the cake mix to moisten it.
3. Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
4. Serve & Enjoy
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Want to take your dessert to the next level? Here are some expert tips:
✔ Add a crunchy topping – Crushed graham crackers or nuts bring a delightful texture. ✔ Enhance the lemon flavor – A teaspoon of fresh lemon zest boosts the citrusy taste. ✔ Make it extra creamy – Swirl in an extra ½ cup of sour cream before baking. ✔ Try a different fruit – Blueberry or raspberry pie filling works beautifully too.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake ahead of time?
Yes! Simply assemble the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. How should I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
3. Can I use fresh lemon instead of lemon pie filling?
Fresh lemon juice won’t provide the same texture, but you can use a homemade lemon curd as a substitute.
4. What’s the best way to serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake?
This cake pairs well with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries.
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy and irresistible Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party, a potluck, or just a weekend treat, this recipe guarantees smiles all around. Now it’s your turn—try it today and let us know how it turns out!
