If you’re craving a dessert that captures the bright, tangy zing of citrus combined with the rich creaminess of cheesecake, you have to try this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe. It’s the ultimate easy-to-make treat that feels special enough to serve at a gathering but simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. This dessert layers luscious lemon pie filling with a dreamy cream cheese mixture, all topped with a buttery yellow cake crust that bakes to golden perfection. It’s the kind of cake that hits every note: sweet, tart, creamy, and oh-so comforting. Once you make this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe, it’ll undoubtedly become a staple in your baking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients is half the fun in creating a dump cake, and with this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe, each element brings something special to the table—from tangy citrus brightness to a buttery crumb that balances everything perfectly.
- Yellow cake mix: Provides the sweet, cakey topping that crisps up wonderfully in the oven.
- Lemon pie filling (21 oz can): Delivers that vibrant lemon flavor and juicy texture that makes the cake pop with freshness.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Adds rich, velvety creaminess that pairs beautifully with the tart lemon.
- Butter (½ cup, melted): Creates a golden, buttery crust by soaking into the dry cake mix.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and smooths the cream cheese, balancing out the tang.
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and give your 9×13-inch baking dish a light greasing. This prevents sticking and ensures your cake comes out cleanly, making your cleanup easier and your cake perfect every time.
Step 2: Spread the Lemon Pie Filling
Evenly distribute the entire can of lemon pie filling across the bottom of your baking dish. This layer is the juicy, tangy foundation that will bubble up delightfully as the cake bakes.
Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese and Powdered Sugar
In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until you have a smooth, creamy mixture. This step is key for creating that luscious cream cheese layer that contrasts the citrus and adds depth to every bite.
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese Mixture
Drop spoonfuls of your cream cheese mixture over the lemon filling. Gently spread it out, but don’t worry about making it perfectly smooth—the marbled effect adds a lovely rustic look once baked.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Now, sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. This will bake into a golden, crumbly crust that’s both sweet and slightly crisp.
Step 6: Drizzle Melted Butter
Drizzle the melted butter carefully over the cake mix, making sure to cover as much of the surface as possible. The butter is what transforms the dry cake mix into that irresistible buttery topping your taste buds will adore.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Pop your cake into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns golden brown and you see lovely bubbling from the lemon filling.
Step 8: Cool Slightly, Then Serve
Let the cake cool for a bit before serving so the layers can set up just right, making it easier to cut and even more delicious to savor.
How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Add a fresh burst of flavor and color by topping your cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a few thin lemon slices. If you want to get fancy, a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can turn this simple dessert into a showstopper.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light citrus sorbet to contrast the richness. Fresh berries on the side also add a pop of freshness and texture for a truly delightful experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe in charming mason jars or individual ramekins for a cute twist that’s perfect for parties. Garnishing with edible flowers or mint leaves can instantly elevate the presentation and make your guests feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days, making it a convenient dessert to enjoy over multiple days.
Freezing
You can freeze this dump cake if you want to prepare it in advance. Wrap the cooled cake securely with plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
To enjoy your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe warm, reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds or warm the whole dish in a 325°F oven covered with foil until heated through. This helps revive that melty, gooey texture everyone loves.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix in this recipe?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix works wonderfully with the lemon and cream cheese, you can try white cake mix or even a funfetti mix for a different twist. Just keep in mind the flavor combinations.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and check that your lemon pie filling and other ingredients are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options that work great.
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
Cream cheese is key for that rich, tangy cream layer, but you could try mascarpone or ricotta for a different, slightly milder flavor. The texture may vary slightly but the cake will still be delicious.
Do I need to refrigerate this cake after baking?
It’s best to refrigerate this cake because of the cream cheese layer and lemon pie filling—they keep best when chilled and help the cake maintain its structure.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
This recipe fits perfectly in a 9×13 pan. If you want to double it, use a larger pan or two baking dishes and monitor the baking time closely to avoid overbaking.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is a little piece of sunshine that’s sure to brighten your day with every bite. It’s straightforward enough to bring out on a busy night but impressive enough to wow guests when entertaining. From the luscious lemon filling to the creamy swirl of sweetened cream cheese and the irresistible buttery crust, this cake captures all the cozy, tangy goodness you want in a dessert. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to cake!
Print
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A tangy and rich Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake that’s incredibly easy to make. This dessert layers lemon pie filling with a smooth cream cheese mixture and a yellow cake mix topping, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick, crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 (21 oz) can lemon pie filling
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Topping
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Layer Lemon Filling: Pour and spread the lemon pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a tangy base layer.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy, free of lumps.
- Add Cream Cheese Layer: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the lemon filling and gently spread it out to cover the filling evenly.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer, ensuring full coverage but without pressing it down.
- Drizzle Butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, which will help create a moist, golden topping during baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, signaling that the cake is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving to let the layers set and make slicing easier.
Notes
- The cream cheese should be softened for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- If you prefer a tart flavor, choose a lemon pie filling with less sugar or add a splash of lemon juice.
- This dessert can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
