Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a dream for anyone who loves lemon-flavored desserts! The cake mix forms a golden, slightly crunchy top layer, while the cream cheese and lemon pie filling create a creamy, indulgent base. It’s the ultimate comfort dessert, and the best part is that it requires very little prep. Simply “dump” the ingredients in the pan, pop it in the oven, and wait for the magic to happen. It’s incredibly simple but tastes like a fancy, homemade treat!
Ingredients
- 1 (15.25 oz) box of lemon cake mix
- 2 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1 (21 oz) can of lemon pie filling
Directions
Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the cream cheese layer:
2. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and well-combined.
Assemble the dump cake:
3. Spread the lemon pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the lemon pie filling layer.
5. Sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese mixture (do not stir). The cake mix will create a crumbly, topping layer as it bakes.
6. Dot the top of the cake with small pieces of butter if desired (optional, but it adds richness and helps the cake crisp up).
Bake the cake:
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.
8. Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Servings and timing
- Servings: This recipe makes approximately 8-10 servings, depending on portion size.
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 45-50 minutes
- Total time: 55-60 minutes
Variations
- Fruits: Add fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries into the pie filling layer for extra flavor and texture.
- Topping ideas: Top with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for added richness.
- Other flavors: Try using different cake mixes, like yellow or white cake, for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 20-30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?
Yes, you can swap the lemon pie filling for another flavor, such as cherry, blueberry, or peach, to create different variations of this dump cake.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time. You can store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.
3. Can I use light cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use light cream cheese, but the texture and richness may be slightly different than using full-fat cream cheese.
4. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Definitely! If you’re not a fan of lemon, you can use yellow or white cake mix instead for a more neutral flavor. Chocolate cake mix would also work well for a different twist.
5. How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy. You can also check by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
6. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To serve, let it thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.
7. Can I make this dairy-free?
To make this dairy-free, you could try using dairy-free cream cheese and a dairy-free butter substitute. However, the texture and flavor might be slightly different than the original version.
8. Can I make this cake in a different-sized pan?
Yes, you can use a different-sized pan, but the baking time may vary. If you use a smaller pan, the cake may need less time to bake. If you use a larger pan, it may take longer.
9. Can I add nuts to the cake?
Yes, you can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cake for added crunch and flavor. Simply sprinkle them over the top before baking.
10. Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can use granulated sugar substitutes like Swerve, erythritol, or monk fruit if you’re looking for a lower-carb version of this recipe.
Conclusion
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert that combines the best of lemon and cream cheese in a warm, gooey treat. With minimal prep work and only a few ingredients, this dump cake is perfect for a last-minute dessert or a crowd-pleasing addition to any meal. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this sweet and tangy cake will definitely be a hit!
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Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is an easy-to-make, delicious dessert that combines the tanginess of lemon with the creaminess of cream cheese. The cake mix creates a golden, crispy top, while the lemon pie filling and cream cheese form a luscious, gooey base. With minimal effort, this dessert will impress everyone at your next gathering!
Ingredients
1 (15.25 oz) box of lemon cake mix
2 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 (21 oz) can of lemon pie filling
Optional: Butter (to dot the top of the cake)
Instructions
Preheat the oven:
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the cream cheese layer:
2. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and well-combined.
Assemble the dump cake:
3. Spread the lemon pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the lemon pie filling layer.
5. Sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the top (do not stir).
6. Dot the top of the cake with small pieces of butter if desired.
Bake the cake:
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.
8. Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Notes
Toppings: For extra richness, top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different pie fillings such as cherry, blueberry, or peach.
Additional Add-ins: Add nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
