Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Looking for a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat? This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the answer! With its bright lemony flavor, creamy texture, and a touch of sweetness, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to fancy gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a dream come true for lemon lovers. Not only is it incredibly simple to prepare, but it also delivers a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. The combination of lemon pie filling, cream cheese, and cake mix creates a moist and flavorful dessert that everyone will rave about. Plus, with minimal prep time and a short list of ingredients, it’s an effortless way to impress your guests.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)
- Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Fresh lemon slices or zest
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the pie filling. Sprinkle the lemon cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese layer.
- Add the Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix, ensuring as much of the surface as possible is covered. For extra tang, drizzle lemon juice over the top as well.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Let the cake cool for at least 10 minutes to allow the layers to set.
- Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature. Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or fresh lemon zest for an extra touch.
Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. This will ensure a smooth and creamy layer. Also, distribute the butter evenly over the cake mix to help it bake uniformly.
Additional Tips and Variations
If you want to add a bit more texture, consider sprinkling crushed graham crackers or chopped nuts on top before baking. You can also substitute the lemon pie filling with your favorite fruit filling for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This cake is rich and indulgent, so keep portion sizes in mind. While exact nutrition will vary, each serving is a delicious treat worth savoring!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different cake mix flavor? Absolutely! While lemon complements the other ingredients beautifully, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or white cake mix.
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving.
Conclusion
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor, making it a must-try for any dessert lover. Give it a go and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear about your experiences and any creative twists you might add.