Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With its delightful blend of tangy lemon and creamy cheese, this cake offers a refreshing twist on traditional dump cakes. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it great for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The layers of lemon pie filling and cream cheese create a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests without requiring extensive baking skills.

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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 Filling
• For the Cream Cheese Layer
• For Serving (Optional)
• 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
• A Scoop of Ice Cream
• Drizzled with Lemon Glaze
• Topped with Whipped Cream
• Garnished with Mint Leaves
• 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 lemon cake mix instead of yellow?
• How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
• What toppings pair well with this dump cake?
• How long does it take to prepare this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes of prep time, making it an ideal choice for last-minute dessert needs.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon pie filling and cream cheese creates a deliciously tangy and creamy taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with ice cream, or let it cool and dust with powdered sugar for a more elegant presentation.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This cake serves 12, making it great for parties, potlucks, or family dinners.
• Minimal Cleanup: With just one bowl needed for mixing, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your dessert!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (optional but recommended)
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly without splashing.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and ensures a smooth cream cheese layer without lumps.
• Baking pan: The right size pan is essential for even baking and achieving the perfect texture 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 Filling

• 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

For Serving (Optional)

• 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

Serving your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this scrumptious treat that will impress your family and friends.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of the cake with a side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and flavor.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the cake’s crumbly layers.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• Create a simple lemon glaze using powdered sugar and lemon juice. Drizzle it over the top for added sweetness and a zesty kick.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on each slice. It lightens the richness of the cream cheese layer while enhancing its flavor.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and freshness. Place a few on top of each slice for an elegant touch.

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How to Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

To ensure your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Let your cream cheese, egg, and butter come to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
• Don’t skip the zest: Adding lemon zest enhances the flavor significantly, giving your cake an extra layer of brightness.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes; ovens can vary. Check for doneness by ensuring the top is golden brown.
• Cool before serving: Allowing the cake to cool for at least 45 minutes helps firm up the layers, making it easier to slice.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative! Try adding different fruits or sauces that complement lemon, such as blueberry compote.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Complement your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake with these delicious side dishes that enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal.

1. Citrus Salad: A refreshing mix of oranges, grapefruits, and mint that adds brightness and contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
2. Pineapple Coleslaw: This crunchy side dish combines sweet pineapple chunks with cabbage for a tropical twist.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of dessert.
4. Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic butter provide a flavorful side that pairs well with any dessert.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta brings a healthy option to your table while complementing the cake’s richness.
6. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots and zucchini can add depth to your meal without overpowering your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake can be simple, but certain pitfalls can affect your results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps in the cheese layer.
• Not measuring accurately: Be precise with your measurements, especially for the cake mix and butter. Too much or too little can change the texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the cake to cool is crucial for setting the layers. Rushing this step will result in a messy serving.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cake towards the end of baking. Overbaking can dry it out and alter its flavor.
• Forgetting to grease the pan: Properly greasing your baking dish prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your delicious cake.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The cake will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• It 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) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe that may help guide you.

Can I use lemon cake mix instead of yellow?

Yes, using lemon cake mix enhances the lemon flavor and makes it even more delicious!

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute regular cake mix with a gluten-free alternative. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What toppings pair well with this dump cake?

Whipped cream, fresh fruits, or even a scoop of ice cream complement the flavors wonderfully.

How long does it take to prepare this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe?

The total preparation time is about 55 minutes, including baking and cooling.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Its refreshing lemon flavor combined with creamy cheese layers makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize by adding berries or adjusting sweetness levels to suit your taste!