Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake: A Simple and Delicious Dessert
Dump cakes are the ultimate easy dessert—minimal effort, maximum flavor! This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a perfect example of how four simple ingredients can come together to create a soft, golden cake with creamy cream cheese and tangy lemon filling. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday dessert or a crowd-pleasing treat for your next potluck, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 1 can (21 ounces) lemon pie filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking. -
Layer the Ingredients:
- Lemon Pie Filling: Spread the lemon pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Cream Cheese: Drop spoonfuls of softened cream cheese over the lemon filling. You don’t need to spread it out; just let it sit as dollops on top.
-
Add the Cake Mix:
Sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the cream cheese. Be sure to cover the entire surface, but it’s okay if some areas aren’t fully covered, as they’ll crisp up while baking. -
Pour the Butter:
Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, covering it as evenly as possible. Don’t worry if there are a few dry spots—they’ll get crispy and golden during baking. -
Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and the filling will start to bubble. -
Cool and Serve:
Let the cake cool for about 10–15 minutes. This allows the filling to thicken and makes it easier to cut. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
- Serving Tip: Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent dessert!
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 20 seconds for a warm treat.
Success Hints:
- Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened before adding it to the dish. If it’s too cold, it won’t melt smoothly, and you might end up with uneven layers.
- Butter Drizzle: For an even bake, be sure to pour the melted butter slowly and evenly across the cake mix to ensure it cooks uniformly.
- Cooling: Allow the cake to cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes cutting easier.
Healthy Ingredient Highlights:
- Lemon: Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, lemons help boost your immune system and provide a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Cream Cheese: While rich, cream cheese provides calcium and vitamin A. Use light cream cheese for a healthier alternative!
Calorie Breakdown (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Cholesterol: 18 grams
- Carbohydrates: 37 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Total Sugars: 22 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
Changes and Alternatives:
- Fruit Filling Swap: Swap out the lemon pie filling for cherry, blueberry, or apple pie filling. The cake mix flavor will change to match the filling for the best results!
- Add Crunch: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or nuts over the cake mix before baking for added texture.
- Healthier Twist: Reduce the fat by replacing half the butter with applesauce to make the cake lighter but still delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other pie fillings?
Yes, you can use various fruit pie fillings such as cherry, blueberry, or apple—just match the cake mix flavor with the fruit filling for the best outcome.
2. Can I use light cream cheese?
Absolutely! Using light cream cheese can reduce the fat content without sacrificing the creaminess of the filling.
3. What if I don’t have lemon pie filling?
You can create a homemade lemon pie filling using lemon curd and cornstarch or try using any other citrus-based fruit filling (like lime or orange) for a different twist.
In Conclusion:
If you love the vibrant flavor of lemons and appreciate a dessert that’s easy to prepare, this 4-ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a must-try. With just a few pantry staples, you can make a dessert that tastes like it took hours to prepare, but only takes minutes. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or craving a simple treat, this cake will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe)! 🍰🍋