This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a breeze to make! With tangy lemon, creamy cheese, and a sweet cake mix, it’s a fun way to enjoy a tasty dessert without the fuss.
You just mix, dump, and bake—easy peasy! I like to serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top. It makes every bite feel like sunshine on a plate! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the cake its rich and creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but still offers a similar taste.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor. Bottled lemon juice is a good substitute in a pinch, but fresh really enhances the taste. You can also use lime juice if you want a different twist.
Lemon Pie Filling: This gives a sweet and tangy flavor. If you can’t find it, you could use lemon curd or even make your own filling using fresh lemons, sugar, and cornstarch.
Yellow Cake Mix: This is the easy part! Any brand will do, but you could swap it for a gluten-free cake mix if you need a gluten-free version. I also like using vanilla cake mix for a slight twist!
Unsalted Butter: The butter adds richness and helps create a crispy top. You can substitute with coconut oil or a plant-based butter if you prefer dairy-free.
How Do I Make Sure My Dump Cake Turns Out Perfectly?
Making a dump cake seems easy, but a few tips can make it even better. First, always preheat your oven to ensure even baking. Layering is key: spread the cream cheese mixture evenly, then spoon the pie filling gently on top.
- Don’t stir the ingredients after adding the cake mix and butter; this layering is what creates the delicious texture.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Ovens can vary, so check for that golden brown color and use a toothpick to make sure the center is set.
- Let the cake cool a few minutes before serving, as it will help it to set up nicely. Enjoy it warm with freshly whipped cream.
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cake:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For Serving:
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for garnish)
- Whipped cream (for serving)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 45-55 minutes to bake. Make sure to let it cool a bit before serving. In total, you’ll need approximately 1 hour to enjoy this delightful dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your cake is ready to go in. This helps it bake evenly and get that delicious golden brown color.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, take your softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Use a mixer or a whisk to beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, pour in the lemon juice and mix well. This will create a tangy and sweet base for your cake!
3. Assemble the Cake Layers:
Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the creamy mixture evenly across the bottom. Next, open the can of lemon pie filling and spoon it over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly. Now, sprinkle the yellow cake mix all over the pie filling, covering it as much as you can. Remember, no mixing, just layering!
4. Add the Butter:
Drizzle the melted butter carefully over the cake mix layer. Try to make sure the butter reaches all parts of the cake mix. Again, do not stir it, let it sit on top for that perfect crumbly texture!
5. Baking Time:
Pop your baking dish in the preheated oven. Let it bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s baked, take it out of the oven and allow the cake to cool for a few minutes. Then, slice it up and serve it warm. For a special touch, you can garnish each slice with whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a lemon slice if you like!
Enjoy your delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake!
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese instead of regular cream cheese, as it has lower fat content. For a non-dairy version, try vegan cream cheese, which will give you a similar texture, though the flavor may differ slightly.
What If I Don’t Have Lemon Juice?
No problem! If you’re out of lemon juice, you can use an equal amount of lime juice for a different but delicious citrus flavor. Alternatively, you could replace it with a tangy beverage like lemonade, but reduce the sugar slightly since lemonade is already sweet.
How Should I Store Leftover Cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy it warm, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. You can also serve it cold for a refreshing treat!
Can I Use a Different Cake Mix Flavor?
Definitely! While yellow cake mix complements the lemon flavor nicely, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or even lemon cake mix for a more intense citrus taste. Just keep in mind that it may change the overall flavor profile of the cake.
