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

  • Simplify Baking Magic: 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: Tangy 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

Cake Base:
  • Yellow Cake Mix: A convenient base that provides structure and sweetness to the dessert.
  • Lemon Pie Filling: Adds a bright, tangy 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 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 Zesty 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 tangy 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 delightful 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. This magical 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

  • 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

  • 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 Bliss 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

  • Mix vodka, limoncello, and fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy 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 zesty profile.

Keeping Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Fresh

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cover with plastic wrap or lid to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual portions or entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 months without losing quality.
  • Reheating Oven Method: 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.
  • Microwave Quick Option: 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

  • 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.

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Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe


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4.7 from 32 reviews

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

Description

Lemon cream cheese dump cake offers a delightful twist on classic desserts with minimal effort. Creamy, tangy layers combine effortlessly, inviting you to savor each zesty, comforting bite.


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. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean.
  8. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to rest for 15-20 minutes, enabling flavors to meld and facilitating easier serving.

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
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Creating single-serving recipes tailored for individuals, small households, or meal preppers
  • Culinary arts with a focus on clean plating and natural styling for food photography
  • Working with fermented ingredients and dairy-based cooking techniques
  • Designing seasonal menus that use fresh, locally sourced produce

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Bend, OR

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Gained hands-on experience in professional kitchens, learning advanced recipe development, seasonal ingredient sourcing, and simple, beautiful food presentation.

ServSafe Food Handler Certification – Portland, OR

  • Program: Food Safety Certification
    Focus: Certified in core food safety and hygiene principles for both home and professional kitchens, with emphasis on ingredient handling, kitchen cleanliness, and safe preparation methods.

Mike’s kitchen journey began with a single goal: to make everyday meals feel like something worth celebrating.
After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Cascade Culinary Institute, he spent years working with local farmers and small kitchens across Oregon, learning the beauty of seasonal, small-batch cooking.
Mike’s approach is simple, cook with what’s fresh, keep it approachable, and always leave room for a little creativity. When he’s not testing yogurt marinades or designing single-serving meals, you’ll find him hiking trails or hunting down the best berries at local markets.

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