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 creamy cheese and a buttery cake. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual weeknight dinners. Its unique layering of lemon filling and cream cheese creates a rich and satisfying treat that everyone will love. Plus, it requires minimal prep time, making it a great choice for those who want to whip up something special without spending all day in the kitchen.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cake Base
• For the Lemon Layer
• For the Cream Cheese Layer
• Optional Topping
• How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Bottom Cake Layer
• Step 3: Add the Lemon Filling
• Step 4: Make the Cheese Layer
• Step 5: Top with Remaining Cake Mix
• Step 6: Bake
• Step 7: Cool and Serve
• How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
• With Fresh Berries
• Topped with Whipped Cream
• Served with Ice Cream
• Drizzled with Lemon Glaze
• How to Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
• Reheating Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other flavors of pie filling?
• How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
• Can I add more lemon flavor?
• What should I serve with this dump cake?
• How long does this cake last?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy cooks.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of lemon and cream cheese offers a zesty yet creamy taste that is simply irresistible.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a weeknight treat; this cake suits any occasion.
• No-Fuss Preparation: Just dump the ingredients into a pan—no complicated steps required!
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its light and refreshing flavors, this cake will impress family and friends alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment on hand can simplify your baking process and help achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for even baking and provides ample space for all the layers of your dump cake.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and ensures smooth mixing for your cream cheese layer.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor in your cake.

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 step ensures 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 this 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 softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. Spoon or spread this mixture over the lemon pie filling to create 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 this layer; allowing some exposure will give your cake a lovely texture.

Step 6: Bake

Place the cake in your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. The cake will be ready when you notice that its 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. As it cools, layers will firm up nicely. You can dust with powdered sugar before serving or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat!

How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Serving your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is just as important as making it. This delightful dessert can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its flavors and presentation.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries – Fresh strawberries add a sweet and tangy contrast that pairs beautifully with lemon.
• Blueberries – Their subtle sweetness complements the tartness of the cake perfectly.
• Raspberries – A burst of tartness that balances the creamy flavors.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream – Light and airy, it adds a rich texture that enhances each bite.
• Flavored Whipped Cream – Consider vanilla or citrus-infused options for an extra kick.

Served with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – Classic choice that adds creaminess and richness to the dessert.
• Lemon Sorbet – For those who love zest, a refreshing sorbet brightens up the dish.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• Simple Lemon Glaze – A quick glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice brings an extra zing.
• Icing Sugar – Dusting with icing sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.

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How to Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

To achieve the best version of your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Using fresh lemons for zest and high-quality cream cheese enhances flavor.
• Don’t Overmix – Mixing too much can make the cake dense; mix until just combined for fluffiness.
• Adjust Baking Time – Keep an eye on baking; ovens vary. The cake should be golden brown on top.
• Let It Cool – Cooling helps firm up the layers, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Experiment with Flavors – Try adding coconut or almond extract for a unique twist on this classic dessert.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake elevates any meal. Here are some great options:

1. Arugula Salad – A light salad with arugula, lemon vinaigrette, and shaved parmesan offers a fresh contrast.
2. Grilled Vegetables – Seasoned and grilled veggies provide a savory balance to the sweet cake.
3. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can enhance flavors while providing a savory element to your dessert spread.
4. Fruit Salad – A colorful fruit salad makes for a refreshing accompaniment that complements the cake’s flavor.
5. Mini Quiches – Light quiches filled with vegetables create a delightful brunch pairing alongside the cake.
6. Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad with herbs and vegetables provides a nice texture contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese, are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth batter.
• Skipping the greasing step: Always grease the baking pan well, or you risk having your cake stick to the sides, making it difficult to serve.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
• Not checking for doneness: Rely on visual cues like a golden top and set layers. Use a toothpick to check if it comes out clean from the center.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow the cake to cool for at least 45 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers firm up and makes for cleaner cuts.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 30 seconds, checking to prevent overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until desired temperature is reached.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe that may help clarify any doubts.

Can I use other flavors of pie filling?

Yes! While lemon is delicious, you can experiment with other fruit pie fillings like cherry or blueberry for different flavors.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix instead of regular cake mix.

Can I add more lemon flavor?

Absolutely! You can enhance the lemon flavor by adding more lemon zest or even a splash of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture.

What should I serve with this dump cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of sweetness and creaminess.

How long does this cake last?

The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is not only easy but also incredibly delicious. Its layers of creamy lemon filling and buttery cake create a delightful dessert experience. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or toppings for an extra special treat!