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
Scale
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.
