Delicious 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple, delectable dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds, look no further than this 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake. Not only is it easy to prepare, but the rich and creamy texture combined with the zesty lemon flavor creates the perfect sweet-tart balance. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Dump Cake

When life gives you lemons, make a Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake! This dessert is perfect for those who crave something easy, delicious, and irresistibly creamy. Here’s why this cake stands out:

Simplicity: With just four ingredients, this cake comes together in minutes and is virtually foolproof.
Flavor: The combination of tangy lemon and rich cream cheese makes this dessert irresistible.
Versatility: Perfect for casual family dinners or special occasions.
Quick Prep: No need to spend hours in the kitchen. This dump cake is ready to pop into the oven in just a few steps.

Now, let’s get started with the recipe!

Ingredients

1 can (21 oz) of lemon pie filling
1 package (8 oz) of cream cheese (softened)
1 box of yellow cake mix
½ cup of butter (melted)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A hot oven ensures that your cake will bake evenly, resulting in a golden crust and a warm, gooey filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Filling

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom. This will form the sweet, tangy base of your dump cake.

Step 3: Layer the Cream Cheese

Next, take your softened cream cheese and drop spoonfuls of it evenly over the lemon pie filling. The cream cheese will add a smooth, rich layer that complements the citrusy lemon flavor.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix

Open the box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the cream cheese and lemon layers. Do not stir or mix the layers—just sprinkle the cake mix on top as is.

Step 5: Drizzle with Butter

Finally, take your melted butter and pour it evenly over the entire dish. This helps to create a crispy, golden top layer as the cake bakes.

Step 6: Bake

Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges start to bubble. You’ll want the crust to be slightly crispy while the inside remains soft and gooey.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.

Tips and Variations

Add Some Texture: For a crunchier texture, sprinkle some chopped nuts (like pecans or almonds) over the top before baking.
Flavor Twist: If you’re a fan of berries, try adding a layer of fresh or frozen raspberries between the lemon pie filling and the cream cheese for a fruity twist.
Make It Gluten-Free: Swap out the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free alternative to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dump cake will stay fresh for up to three days.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before enjoying.

The Appeal of Dump Cakes

Dump cakes have become incredibly popular over the years due to their ease and versatility. As the name suggests, you simply “dump” all the ingredients into a baking dish, and the oven does the rest. With minimal prep and cleanup, these cakes are a go-to for anyone who needs a dessert in a pinch.

But don’t let the name fool you—dump cakes are anything but ordinary. The magic happens in the oven, where the ingredients meld together into a gooey, flavorful dessert with a perfectly crispy top.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use homemade lemon pie filling?

Yes, you can substitute store-bought pie filling with homemade lemon curd or pie filling if you prefer a more natural or personalized flavor. Keep in mind that the consistency of homemade filling might be slightly different, so watch the baking time.

2. What type of cream cheese should I use?

Regular cream cheese is recommended for the richest texture, but you can also use reduced-fat or Neufchâtel cheese if you’re looking for a lighter option.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

This cake is best served fresh, but you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a day before serving. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to regain its freshly baked texture.

4. Do I need to mix the ingredients?

No! The beauty of a dump cake is that there’s no need to mix the layers. The ingredients will bake together naturally, forming distinct textures and flavors.

5. Can I use other cake mixes?

While yellow cake mix works best for this recipe, you can experiment with other flavors, such as vanilla, white, or even lemon cake mix for an extra zesty kick.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 320 kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 320mg
Sugar: 25g

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, potluck, or simply want a sweet treat at home, this 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is sure to be a hit. Its delightful balance of creamy and tangy flavors, paired with its ease of preparation, makes it the perfect dessert for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

So, the next time you’re craving something sweet and lemony, whip up this dump cake and enjoy the delicious results!