Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the smooth richness of cream cheese. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual weeknight dinners. Its unique combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout choice for dessert lovers. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, this cake will surely impress your guests and become a favorite in your recipe arsenal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dump cake requires minimal prep time and only a few simple steps.
- Bursting with Flavor: The lemon pie filling combined with cream cheese creates a deliciously tangy and creamy treat.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for potlucks, parties, or just an everyday indulgence.
- No Special Equipment Needed: You can whip it up using basic kitchen tools you likely already have at home.
- Great for All Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a simple weeknight dessert, this cake fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools to make sure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment on hand ensures that your baking experience is enjoyable and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Whisk or electric mixer
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without any mess.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor and texture in your cake.
- Whisk or electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter for the cream cheese layer without lumps.
- 9×13-inch baking pan: The perfect size to allow even baking and golden crust formation.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or lemon cake mix for extra lemon flavor)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Lemon Layer
- 1.5 to 2 cans (21 oz) lemon pie filling
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 12 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
Optional Topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This will ensure your cake comes out without sticking to the edges.
Step 2: Prepare the Bottom Cake Layer
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with melted butter. Mix until crumbly. Spread about half of the cake mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing it down lightly to create a base.
Step 3: Add the Lemon Filling
Spread 1.5 to 2 cans of lemon pie filling over the cake mix base. Ensure it’s evenly distributed for that burst of lemony goodness in every bite.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. Spoon or spread this mixture over the lemon pie filling, creating another delicious layer.
Step 5: Top with Remaining Cake Mix
Sprinkle the remaining cake mix mixture over the cream cheese layer. It doesn’t need to completely cover the cheese layer; the crumble effect will give the cake a lovely texture and rustic look.
Step 6: Bake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. The cake will be ready when the cream cheese layer is set and no longer jiggly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for at least 45 minutes before slicing. The layers will firm up as it cools. You can dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness before serving or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a complete dessert experience!
How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
This delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, serving it the right way can elevate the experience.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- Vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the tangy lemon flavor, making each bite more enjoyable.
Drizzle with Lemon Glaze
- A simple lemon glaze can enhance the citrus flavor and give your cake an extra shine. Just mix powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until smooth.
Serve Warm with Whipped Cream
- Warm slices topped with fluffy whipped cream create a comforting dessert that’s hard to resist.
Garnish with Fresh Berries
- Fresh strawberries or blueberries not only add color but also complement the flavors beautifully, offering a refreshing touch.
Dust with Powdered Sugar
- A light dusting of powdered sugar can make your dump cake look more appealing and provide a hint of sweetness on top.
Enjoy as Breakfast Treat
- This cake is not just for dessert! It makes for a delightful breakfast alongside coffee or tea.
How to Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Perfecting your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake ensures that every slice is divine. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Use room temperature cream cheese: This will ensure that it blends smoothly into your mixture without lumps.
- Adjust lemon filling: If you prefer a stronger lemon taste, consider using 2 cans of filling for a bolder flavor.
- Don’t skip the zest: Adding lemon zest intensifies the flavor and gives an aromatic quality that enhances the overall dish.
- Cool before cutting: Allowing the cake to cool helps set the layers, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Experiment with toppings: Consider adding fresh fruits or flavored whipped creams for added texture and flavor variations.
- Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that complements dessert.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the sweet dump cake.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Savory chicken skewers provide protein and balance out the sweetness of your dessert.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies can serve as a savory side that pairs well with sweet flavors.
- Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses can add variety and sophistication, enhancing your overall dining experience.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with lemon dressing ties in perfectly with the citrus flavors in the dump cake.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These provide a touch of indulgence and pair beautifully with lemon desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the greasing: Always grease your baking dish. This prevents the cake from sticking and helps it come out perfectly shaped.
- Using cold cream cheese: Don’t forget to soften your cream cheese! Cold cream cheese won’t blend smoothly, resulting in lumps in your batter.
- Overmixing the cake mix: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a light, fluffy cake.
- Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your cake while it bakes. Every oven is different; check for a golden top and firm texture before removing.
- Not letting it cool properly: Allow the cake to cool for at least 45 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking tray and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Warm for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe?
A Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is an easy dessert that layers lemon pie filling, cream cheese mixture, and cake mix for a delightful treat.
Can I use other flavors of pie filling?
Yes! While this recipe focuses on lemon, you can experiment with other fruit fillings like cherry or blueberry for a delicious twist.
How do I make my dump cake more lemony?
To enhance the lemon flavor, consider adding more lemon zest or using lemon pudding mix along with the cake mix.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
This recipe contains gluten and dairy but can be adapted using gluten-free cake mix and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives if needed.
Final Thoughts
The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a burst of citrus flavor with creamy goodness. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Feel free to customize it with fresh berries or switch up the pie filling based on your preferences!
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, a dessert that perfectly marries zesty lemon with creamy richness. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home. With minimal prep time and no special equipment needed, this layered cake features a buttery cake mix base topped with tangy lemon pie filling and a luscious cream cheese layer. Serve it warm or chilled for an impressive dessert that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1.5 to 2 cans (21 oz each) lemon pie filling
- 12 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, combine the cake mix and melted butter until crumbly. Press half into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly over the cake base.
- In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth. Spread this mixture over the lemon layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining cake mixture on top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and set.
- Cool for at least 45 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (113g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
