Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

There's something so irresistible about the simplicity of a dump cake, and this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake takes that magic to a whole new level. With bright, tangy lemon filling and a creamy layer of sweetened cream cheese, this dessert is both indulgent and refreshing. All you need are a few pantry staples, and you’ll have a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

this Recipe

I first came across this recipe when looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert for a family gathering, and it was an instant hit. Now, it’s one of my go-to recipes whenever I need a dessert that looks impressive but is truly effortless to make.

Why You'll Love This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Get ready to fall in love with this easy, delightful dessert. This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake has a way of winning everyone over with its flavor and simplicity.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a few steps and minimal prep, you’ll be able to put this dessert together in minutes. Perfect for when you need a last-minute dish that doesn’t look or taste like one.

The texture is simply out of this world. With layers of soft lemon filling, creamy, tangy cream cheese, and a tender cake topping, each bite is a mix of delicious contrasts. The cake bakes up with a golden-brown, slightly crispy crust that’s delightful next to the creamy interior.

It’s also a budget-friendly dessert. Using affordable ingredients like a boxed cake mix and canned lemon filling, this recipe proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients for a fabulous treat.

Lastly, this cake is incredibly versatile. It can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or cold, straight from the fridge – making it adaptable to any season or occasion.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake comes from simple, accessible ingredients. Each one plays a role in building up the flavors and textures that make this dessert unforgettable.

• Lemon Pie Filling: This is the tangy, citrusy base of the cake that gives it that refreshing lemon flavor. The canned filling works beautifully here for both convenience and flavor. If you’re up for it, you can use homemade lemon curd instead for an extra-special touch.
• Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is dotted throughout the filling, adding richness and a slight tang that balances the lemon’s brightness. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure it mixes smoothly without any lumps.
• Boxed Yellow Cake Mix: The cake mix is the foundation of this “dump” cake. Yellow cake adds a hint of vanilla and a soft, light crumb that works well with the creamy layers. White cake mix can also be used if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Butter: Sliced and layered on top, the butter melts into the cake mix as it bakes, creating a rich, moist topping with a golden, slightly crispy crust. Use unsalted butter to control the salt level, and don’t skimp here – it’s essential for that perfect texture.
• Lemon Zest (Optional): If you want to intensify the lemon flavor, adding a bit of fresh lemon zest is a great option. It adds a hint of citrus aroma and depth to the finished cake.

You won’t need any special equipment to make this dessert – just a 9x13-inch baking dish and a spatula.

How To Make This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Making this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is as easy as it gets. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create this dreamy dessert in no time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make for easy serving later.

Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. This will create the sweet, tangy base that defines the cake’s flavor profile.

Next, take your softened cream cheese and drop small spoonfuls over the lemon filling. Try to distribute them evenly so that every bite has a touch of creamy goodness.

Pour the yellow cake mix over the cream cheese and lemon layers. Spread it out evenly with a spatula, but don’t mix it in – this will create the unique layered texture that dump cakes are known for.

Place slices of butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. This butter will melt as the cake bakes, infusing the mix with moisture and giving the cake a beautifully golden-brown top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when the butter has fully melted and the cake mix is set with a slightly crisp texture. Let it cool slightly before serving, as the filling will thicken as it cools.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers of this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake (which is rare!), storing it is easy. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The chilled cake firms up a bit, making it easy to slice, and tastes delicious served cold.
• Freezer: For longer storage, place slices in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: If you prefer the cake warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or place it in a low-temperature oven until warmed through. Warm cake pairs beautifully with ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is how versatile it is. Here are some ways to make it your own:

• Swap the Lemon Filling: While lemon is a bright and refreshing choice, you could try this cake with other pie fillings like blueberry, cherry, or apple. Each one brings a unique flavor twist that pairs well with cream cheese.
• Add Fresh Berries: For a burst of freshness, sprinkle a handful of blueberries or raspberries over the lemon filling before adding the cream cheese and cake mix. The berries add color and extra flavor to each bite.
• Use a Different Cake Mix: While yellow cake mix is traditional, white or even lemon cake mix can work here. Lemon cake mix will intensify the citrus flavor, while white cake mix provides a milder, more vanilla-like taste.
• Add a Streusel Topping: For a little extra crunch, mix a streusel topping with brown sugar, flour, and chopped nuts, and sprinkle it over the butter layer before baking.
• Try a Sugar-Free Version: Use a sugar-free cake mix and low-sugar pie filling for a lighter version of this dessert. It’ll still taste wonderful without all the extra sugar.

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is such a flexible recipe that you can enjoy experimenting with your favorite variations. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or add your own twist, it’s sure to be a hit.

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