There is something wonderfully delightful about a dessert that tastes like sunshine in every bite, and that is exactly what you get with the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe. This luscious, tangy, and incredibly easy-to-make treat combines zesty lemon pie filling with creamy blocks of smooth cream cheese, all beautifully enveloped under a buttery golden cake topping. Whether you are new to baking or just love fuss-free recipes, this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe will quickly become your go-to dessert for family dinners, potlucks, and anytime you crave a bright and comforting sweet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe means gathering a handful of pantry staples that brilliantly come together to treat your taste buds. Each ingredient is simple yet plays a crucial role in building layers of vibrant flavor, creamy richness, and that perfect, crisp topping texture.
- Lemon Pie Filling: Brings refreshing citrus sweetness and a hint of tartness that makes this cake so vibrant.
- Cream Cheese: Adds a smooth and tangy creaminess that balances the lemon and enriches every bite.
- Yellow Cake Mix: The secret powdered ingredient that forms the buttery cake crust and adds just the right texture.
- Butter: Cold and sliced, butter melts into the cake mix creating a golden, crispy finish.
- Lemon Zest (optional): A small touch of zest can lift the dish with intense citrus aroma and extra brightness.
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C), the perfect baking temperature to create a crunchy crust while warming the luscious filling inside. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving afterward.
Step 2: Spread the Lemon Pie Filling
Pour the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. This forms the tangy base layer that carries the delightful lemon punch in every slice.
Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese Cubes
Scatter cubed cream cheese evenly over the lemon filling. The cream cheese will melt and create soft pockets of lusciousness that contrast beautifully with the crisp topping.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Dry Cake Mix
Next, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and filling—remember, do not stir. This step creates the signature ‘dump cake’ texture, where the dry mix transforms into a golden crust during baking.
Step 5: Arrange Butter Slices
Place thin slices of cold butter across the top of the cake mix. As it bakes, the butter melts and helps the cake mix form a rich, buttery, and slightly crunchy topping that perfectly complements the soft filling below.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake the cake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, until you see a golden top and bubbling edges—signs that the magic is happening underneath. When it’s done, let it cool for about 15 minutes so the layers can set slightly. Serve warm or chill if you prefer a cool, refreshing dessert.
How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A little garnish can turn your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake into something special that looks as good as it tastes. A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top right after baking amps up the citrus aroma, or dust with powdered sugar for a pretty, sweet finish. Fresh mint leaves also add a refreshing pop of color and subtle herbal note.
Side Dishes
This cake stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the tanginess. For a brunch setting, serve alongside fresh berries or a light lemon curd for an extra burst of citrus joy.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the cake in individual ramekins for cute single servings, or layer it with whipped cream and fresh fruit in a trifle dish for an elegant twist. Another fun idea is to cut it into bite-sized bars and serve on a platter for parties—easy to pick up and enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, and the cream cheese filling will remain creamy and delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake by wrapping it well with foil and placing it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or serving chilled.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, warm individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or place the whole cake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Warmed, the cream cheese and lemon filling soften delightfully, just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use homemade lemon pie filling instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade lemon pie filling works beautifully in this recipe and gives you control over sweetness and tartness. Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold up during baking.
Is it necessary to use cold butter for the topping?
Yes, cold butter helps create the characteristic crumbly, golden crust by melting slowly over the cake mix during baking. Using softened butter might make the topping too soggy.
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
Cream cheese is key for that rich texture and slight tang, but you might try mascarpone or ricotta for a milder flavor. However, cream cheese is recommended for the best results.
Do I have to use lemon zest?
Lemon zest is optional but highly encouraged. It boosts the citrus aroma and intensity, making every bite sing with fresh lemon flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional yellow cake mix contains gluten, so this recipe is not gluten-free as is. To make it gluten-free, look for a gluten-free yellow cake mix and verify that other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is truly a celebration of bright lemony tang and smooth, creamy richness, all hugged by a perfectly buttery cake crust. It’s one of those rare desserts that feels both simple and indulgent, making it a joy to whip up anytime. Trust me, once you give this recipe a try, it’s going to be one of your favorite easy desserts to share with friends and family. Happy baking and even happier tasting!
Print
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is an effortless, crowd-pleasing dessert featuring tangy lemon pie filling, creamy cubed cream cheese, and a buttery yellow cake topping. Simply layered and baked, it results in a luscious, golden bubbly treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cans (21 oz each) lemon pie filling
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened and cubed
Topping
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold butter, sliced thinly
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Layer Lemon Filling: Spread the two cans of lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. If using, sprinkle the lemon zest over the filling to add an extra pop of citrus brightness.
- Add Cream Cheese Cubes: Scatter the softened, cubed cream cheese evenly across the lemon filling layer. This will create creamy pockets throughout the cake.
- Sprinkle Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the cream cheese and lemon mixture. Do not stir; the layers should remain distinct for the dump cake effect.
- Top with Butter Slices: Arrange thin slices of cold butter evenly on top of the cake mix. The butter will melt during baking, creating a rich, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the assembled dish uncovered into the preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let the cake cool for about 15 minutes. Serve warm for a gooey texture or refrigerate and serve chilled for a firmer consistency.
Notes
- Do not stir the layers to maintain the distinct textures that make this a true dump cake.
- Using cold butter is key to forming a rich, crumbly topping.
- Optional lemon zest enhances fresh lemon flavor if you prefer a brighter citrus note.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For easier slicing, chill before serving.
