Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a simple yet delicious dessert that combines the bright, tangy flavor of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese. This easy-to-make cake requires just a few ingredients and no mixing—simply layer everything in the baking dish and let the oven do the work. With a buttery, tender cake topping and a creamy lemon filling, this dump cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert for family dinner or something special for a potluck, this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is sure to be a hit.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 box yellow or lemon cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Add the Lemon Filling: Spread the lemon pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the lemon filling and gently spread it out.
- Add the Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and lemon filling layers.
- Add Butter and Topping: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix, making sure to cover as much of the surface as possible. If using, sprinkle the shredded coconut over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let the cake cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Even Butter Coverage: Make sure to drizzle the melted butter as evenly as possible over the cake mix to ensure a golden, crispy topping.
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and spreading.
- Don’t Overmix: This is a dump cake, so resist the urge to mix everything together—just layer and bake for the best texture.
Recipe Variations
- Berry Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake: Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, on top of the lemon pie filling for an extra burst of flavor.
- Lemon Blueberry Version: Use blueberry pie filling instead of lemon for a delicious lemon-blueberry combination.
- Nutty Topping: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or almonds on top of the cake mix for added crunch.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of cake mix?
A: Yes, you can use white or vanilla cake mix if you prefer, but using lemon cake mix will enhance the lemon flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover lemon cream cheese dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave if desired.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this dump cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It’s delicious served cold or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- With Whipped Cream: Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream for extra sweetness.
- With Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a pop of color and flavor.
- With Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a delicious and easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tangy lemon filling, creamy cream cheese, and buttery cake topping makes this cake irresistible. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this dump cake is a great go-to recipe when you want something sweet without a lot of effort. Give it a try, and enjoy the bright, zesty flavors in every bite!
This dump cake is versatile and can be easily customized with your favorite flavors. Share it with friends and family, and watch it disappear in no time!