Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the zesty goodness of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is easy to whip up and sure to impress. Its unique layers create a burst of flavor that makes every bite a memorable experience.

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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 Vanilla Ice Cream
• Drizzled with Lemon Glaze
• Topped with Fresh Berries
• Served Warm
• Garnished with Whipped Cream
• 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 can I make this recipe gluten-free?
• What if I don’t have cream cheese?
• Can I make this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can have this delicious dessert ready in no time.
• Layered Delight: The combination of lemon pie filling and cream cheese offers a refreshing contrast that elevates this dump cake.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable Flavor: Use yellow or lemon cake mix to adjust the flavor profile according to your preference.
• Perfectly Sweetened: The balance of tart lemon filling and sweet cream cheese creates a harmonious taste that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather all your tools for a seamless baking experience. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for even cooking and generous portions.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a smooth cream cheese mixture without lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to ensuring the right balance of flavors.

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 ensures that your cake comes out easily without sticking.

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 solid 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 so every bite has that burst of lemony goodness.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Layer

In another 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 it; leaving some areas visible adds texture and a rustic look.

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 is 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. As it cools, layers will firm up. You can dust with powdered sugar for added sweetness before serving or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert experience!

How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Serving your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the lemon flavors and adds a refreshing touch to each bite.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• A simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice adds extra sweetness and a tangy kick that enhances the cake’s flavor profile.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries can bring a burst of color and freshness, making your dessert not only tasty but visually appealing too.

Served Warm

• Enjoying the cake warm straight from the oven allows you to appreciate the gooey texture of the cream cheese layer, making it even more indulgent.

Garnished with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top adds richness and lightness, balancing the dense cake layers beautifully.

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How to Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

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

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemons and high-quality cream cheese will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Don’t overmix: When combining your ingredients, be cautious not to overmix; this keeps your cake tender and fluffy.
• Adjust baking time: Ovens can vary; check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time to prevent overbaking.
• Let it cool properly: Allowing the cake to cool for at least 45 minutes helps set the layers and makes slicing easier.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add additional zest or swap in flavored extracts like almond for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette balances out the richness of the cake.
2. Grilled Chicken: Simple grilled chicken seasoned with herbs provides a savory contrast to the sweet dessert.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like asparagus or bell peppers add nutrition and color alongside your cake.
4. Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote made from seasonal fruits offers a sweet yet tart complement to the cake’s flavors.
5. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses can create an elegant pairing that contrasts nicely with the sweet notes of lemon.
6. Lemonade Spritzers: Refreshing lemonade spritzers make for a perfect beverage pairing that echoes the lemon theme in your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your filling.
• Skipping the zest: Don’t forget to add lemon zest! It enhances the flavor and adds a fresh, vibrant note.
• Not greasing the pan properly: Failing to grease your baking pan can cause sticking. Use a generous amount of butter or cooking spray.
• Overbaking the cake: Keep an eye on your cake towards the end of the baking time. Overbaking can dry it out and ruin that creamy texture.
• Forgetting to cool before serving: Patience is key. Allow your cake to cool for at least 45 minutes so that layers set properly and it’s easier to slice.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake in an airtight container.
• It will remain fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

• Wrap individual slices tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake slices for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-60 seconds until warm but not hot.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe that may help you while preparing this delicious dessert.

Can I use other flavors of pie filling?

Yes! While lemon is fantastic, you can experiment with cherry, blueberry, or peach pie filling for different flavor profiles.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

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

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You could try using mascarpone cheese as an alternative; however, it will change the flavor slightly.

Can I make this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, making it perfect for gatherings.

Final Thoughts

The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is not only delightful but also versatile. Its bright lemony flavor combined with creamy layers makes it a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or toppings like whipped cream or fresh berries. Don’t hesitate—try this easy and delicious dessert today!