This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a simple yet decadent dessert that combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the rich creaminess of cream cheese. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, this dump cake is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you need a quick treat. The buttery cake layer, creamy filling, and zesty lemon topping make it an irresistible crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Serves 8–10)
- 1 box yellow cake mix (do not prepare as directed on the box)
- 8 oz cream cheese , softened
- ½ cup butter , melted
- 1 can lemon pie filling (21 oz)
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese , sugar , and vanilla extract . Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the lemon pie filling, spreading gently to create an even layer. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth—it will melt into the cake as it bakes.
- Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cake mix. Use a spatula or spoon to spread it slightly, but don’t mix it in.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes , or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
- If the top begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for at least 15–20 minutes before serving.
- Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. For an extra indulgence, top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Success
- Cream Cheese Softening: To soften the cream cheese quickly, microwave it in 10-second intervals, stirring in between, until soft but not melted.
- Cake Mix Variations: You can use white or butter cake mix instead of yellow for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a warm, gooey treat.
- Optional Add-Ins: Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for decoration, or garnish with fresh lemon zest for extra lemon flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the ultimate no-fuss dessert that delivers big on flavor. The bright, tangy lemon pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy cheesecake-like layer, while the buttery cake topping adds a satisfying crunch. With its simple preparation and impressive results, this dump cake is perfect for busy days or when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Indulge in this sweet, citrusy treat—it’s comfort food with a zesty twist!
