4284096 Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Luscious Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe for Sweet Bliss

Sweet and tangy lemon cream cheese dump cake promises a delightful twist on classic desserts.

Creamy layers meld perfectly with zesty citrus notes.

Forget complicated baking techniques that stress you out.

Minimal effort creates maximum flavor in this simple treat.

A single pan becomes your magic canvas for deliciousness.

Crumbly, moist textures will have everyone asking for seconds.

This recipe guarantees smiles around the table and zero complicated steps.

Reasons to Crave Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Reasons to Crave Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
  • Simplify Baking: Dump cake technique eliminates complicated mixing steps, letting you create a delicious dessert without complex measuring or complicated techniques.
  • Zero-Stress Dessert Solution: Minimal ingredients and straightforward layering process make this recipe perfect for beginner bakers or anyone seeking a quick sweet treat without kitchen stress.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Combo: Sour lemon filling blended with rich cream cheese creates a delightful taste profile that satisfies multiple dessert preferences, making it an ideal crowd-pleaser for gatherings.
  • Versatile Serving Potential: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, casual celebrations, or spontaneous dessert cravings, this cake adapts beautifully to different social settings and mood requirements.

Ingredients to Gather for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Ingredients to Gather for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Cake Base:
  • Yellow Cake Mix: A convenient base that provides structure and sweetness to the dessert.
  • Lemon Pie Filling: Adds a bright, sour flavor and creamy texture to the cake.
  • Cream Cheese: Introduces a rich, creamy element that complements the lemon filling.
Topping:
  • Butter: Creates a golden, crispy top layer and adds richness to the cake.
Preparation Essentials:
  • Non-Stick Cooking Spray or Butter: Ensures the cake does not stick to the baking dish and allows for easy removal.

Step Into Making Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Step Into Making Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grab a square baking dish and give it a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray or brush it lightly with butter to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Spread the Base

Open up the lemon pie filling and pour it into the prepared baking dish. Smooth it out so it covers every single corner of the pan, creating a nice foundation for your dessert.

Step 3: Build the Cake Layers

Sprinkle half of the yellow cake mix over the lemon filling like you’re dusting a delicious landscape. Next, scatter cubed cream cheese across the mix.

Top it off with the remaining cake mix, creating a blanket of sweetness.

Step 4: Butter Blanket

Arrange thin slices of butter across the top of the cake mix.

Create an overlapping pattern that looks like delicate butter shingles, ensuring every inch gets some buttery love.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven.

Let it bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean – no gooey surprise!

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Pull the cake out of the oven and let it chill in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes. The resting time allows flavors to mingle and makes cutting a breeze.

Serve up this lemony, creamy delight and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Insider Tips to Nail Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Insider Tips to Nail Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
  • Swap yellow cake mix with gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert.
  • Enhance flavor by adding lemon zest directly into the cake mix for an extra citrusy punch that brightens the entire dish.
  • Try cream cheese variations like flavored cream cheese or low-fat alternatives to customize the cake's richness and texture.
  • Prevent butter from burning by covering the top with aluminum foil halfway through baking if you notice excessive browning.
  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate this simple yet delicious dump cake experience.

Flavor Twists to Try with Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Flavor Twists to Try with Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
  • Gluten-Free Citrus Sensation: Replace yellow cake mix with gluten-free cake mix and use certified gluten-free lemon pie filling for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Berry Swap: Substitute lemon pie filling with raspberry or blueberry pie filling for a fruity alternative that maintains the dump cake's simplicity.
  • Low-Sugar Zinger: Use sugar-free lemon pie filling and a low-sugar cake mix to create a lighter version suitable for diabetic-friendly diets.
  • Tropical Dream Remix: Replace lemon pie filling with coconut cream pie filling and add shredded coconut on top for a tropical-inspired dessert experience.

Perfect Pairings for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Perfect Pairings for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
  • Mix vodka, limoncello, and fresh lemon juice for a bright drink that complements the cake's lemony undertones. The cocktail's crisp acidity cuts through the dessert's richness.
  • Scoop smooth, cold vanilla gelato alongside the warm dump cake. Its silky texture and subtle sweetness balance the cake's bold lemon and cream cheese flavors.
  • Brew a fragrant cup of lavender Earl Grey tea to serve with the dessert. The tea's delicate floral notes and bergamot undertones create a sophisticated counterpoint to the cake's profile.

Keeping Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Fresh

Keeping Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Fresh
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cover with plastic wrap or lid to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Wrap individual portions or entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 months without losing quality.
  • Preheat oven to 300°F. Remove cake from refrigerator, place in baking dish, cover with foil to prevent burning. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • Heat single serving on medium power for 30-45 seconds. Check temperature and add additional 15-second intervals if needed. Avoid overheating to maintain cake's texture.

FAQs

FAQs
  • Can I use homemade lemon pie filling instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade lemon pie filling works perfectly. Just ensure it has a similar consistency to store-bought filling for the best results.

  • Is it necessary to cut the cream cheese into cubes?

Cutting cream cheese into small cubes helps it distribute evenly and melt smoothly throughout the cake, creating delicious pockets of creaminess.

  • What if I don't have a square baking dish?

A rectangular 9×13 inch baking dish will work just fine. The recipe is flexible with baking dish sizes, so don’t worry about having the exact square pan.

  • Can I reduce the amount of butter used?

While you can slightly reduce the butter, the full amount helps create a moist, rich texture and ensures the cake mix fully absorbs moisture during baking.

Print
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4284096 Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 28 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Lemon cream cheese dump cake is a quick dessert with big payoff. Layers of lemon and cream cheese melt together, giving you a refreshing yet indulgent bake with minimal effort.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package (15 oz) yellow cake mix
  • 1 can (16 oz) lemon pie filling
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick/113 g) unsalted butter, thinly sliced
  • 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, cubed

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and coat a square baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Spread lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring complete coverage.
  3. Distribute half of the yellow cake mix over the lemon filling, creating an initial layer.
  4. Scatter cream cheese cubes uniformly across the cake mix layer, ensuring consistent distribution.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining cake mix over the cream cheese, creating a complete dry layer.
  6. Strategically place butter slices across the top of the cake mix, overlapping to maximize moisture coverage.
  7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cake cool for 15–20 minutes before serving so the layers can settle and the flavors come together.

Notes

  • Swap yellow cake mix with gluten-free alternatives for those with wheat sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert.
  • Enhance the lemon flavor by adding fresh lemon zest directly into the cake mix or sprinkling it on top before baking for an extra citrusy kick.
  • Reduce sweetness by using low-sugar pie filling or partially substituting with fresh lemon juice and a small amount of sugar for a more balanced taste profile.
  • Elevate the cream cheese texture by allowing it to soften at room temperature before cubing, which helps it distribute more evenly and create creamy pockets throughout the cake.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 349
  • Sugar: 32 g
  • Sodium: 261 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 37 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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