Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Description:
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is an easy-to-make, zesty dessert that’s sure to brighten your day! With its layers of tangy lemon pie filling, creamy cream cheese mixture, and a buttery cake topping, this dessert delivers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. It’s a “dump and bake” style treat that takes little effort but delivers big results. Perfect for any occasion where you want to serve something sweet and refreshing with minimal time in the kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Gently spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the lemon pie filling in the dish.
- Evenly sprinkle the lemon cake mix over the cream cheese mixture. Do not mix—it’s meant to sit on top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to set. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Let the cake cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze leftovers, allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Tips:
- Microwave: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, until warm.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and reheat the entire cake for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can substitute lemon cake mix with a yellow or white cake mix for a less tangy flavor. - What if I don’t have lemon pie filling?
You can make your own by combining lemon curd and a bit of sugar, or use a different fruit filling like peach or apple. - Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat or even fat-free cream cheese can be used, but the texture may be slightly different. - Can I add fresh lemons?
Yes, for a fresher, more intense lemon flavor, add the zest of one or two lemons to the cream cheese mixture. - How do I know when the cake is done?
The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. - Can I add fruit to the cake?
You can definitely add fresh berries or even some chopped fruit into the pie filling for extra texture and flavor. - Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made the day before. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve. - Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine will work as a substitute for butter, though the flavor may differ slightly. - Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free lemon cake mix to make the recipe gluten-free. - Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?
Yes, this recipe can work with any fruit pie filling—cherry, blueberry, or apple could also work well. - How do I prevent the cake from getting too dry?
Be sure to check the cake near the end of the baking time and avoid overbaking. - What’s the texture like?
The cake has a soft, gooey texture on the bottom with a slightly crisp top layer. - Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake it in a larger pan, but you may need to extend the baking time. - Can I make this dairy-free?
To make this dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese and use dairy-free butter. - What’s the best way to serve this cake?
This cake is delicious served on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. - What if I don’t have powdered sugar?
If you don’t have powdered sugar, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar until it’s fine and powdery. - Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes, any light cake mix (like vanilla or yellow) will work, but lemon adds a nice citrusy zing. - Do I need to mix the cake mix with anything before adding it?
No, just sprinkle the dry cake mix directly on top of the cream cheese mixture. - Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly. - Can I add nuts to this cake?
Yes, if you like a little crunch, feel free to sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds over the top before baking.
Best Tips for Making Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake:
- Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened before mixing for a smoother consistency.
- Don’t mix the cake mix—just sprinkle it on top for that signature “dump cake” texture.
- For extra lemon flavor, add some lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.
- Use a high-quality lemon pie filling for the best flavor, or make your own for a fresher taste.
- Check the cake at the 30-minute mark to ensure it’s not overcooking.
- If the top is browning too quickly, cover the cake with foil and continue baking.
- For an added touch, drizzle a bit of lemon glaze on top after baking.
- Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast to the tart lemon.
- For a fun twist, top with some whipped cream and a few lemon slices before serving.
- If you’re in a hurry, you can serve the cake warm right out of the oven—it’s delicious both hot and at room temperature!
- Use a non-stick baking dish to make cleanup easier.
- This cake works great for potlucks and gatherings because it’s so easy to make in large quantities.
- Don’t stir the cake mix in with the other layers; just let it bake on top for the perfect texture.
- For an extra rich taste, use a butter-flavored cake mix.
- If you like a sweeter cake, add a bit more powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture.
- Add a handful of coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before putting the cake in to ensure even baking.
- Consider using a citrus-flavored cake mix for an even more intense lemon flavor.
- If you’re using a dark baking dish, reduce the baking time slightly.
- If you have any leftovers, try serving them as a topping for yogurt or pancakes the next morning.
Enjoy your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake—a simple but irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
