Description: A lusciously simple dessert that marries the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and blueberry with the creamy richness of cream cheese. This dump cake is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and ingredients, yet delivering a decadent and comforting treat. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply a delightful indulgence on a cozy evening, this cake is sure to impress with its contrasting textures and harmonious flavors. The moist, fruit-filled bottom layer, the tangy cream cheese swirl, and the crumbly, buttery topping come together to create a symphony of taste that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) blueberry pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by greasing it generously with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the cake from sticking and ensure easy removal after baking. Alternatively, you can line the baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Ensure the cream cheese is thoroughly softened to avoid any lumps in the mixture. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined. The lemon zest adds a burst of fresh citrus flavor that complements the blueberries perfectly.
Step 3: Spread the blueberry pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Distribute the blueberries in a single layer to ensure that each bite of the cake is packed with fruity goodness. If you prefer a more intense blueberry flavor, you can add a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries to the pie filling.
Step 4: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the blueberry filling, spreading it gently to cover as much as possible. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to evenly distribute the cream cheese layer over the blueberry filling. This will create a beautiful swirl effect as the cake bakes and add a rich, tangy dimension to the dessert.
Step 5: Sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese layer. Do not stir or mix the ingredients. The dry cake mix will form a crumbly topping as it bakes, creating a delightful contrast in texture. Ensure that the cake mix is evenly distributed to avoid any dry patches in the finished cake. If desired, you can add a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the topping for extra crunch and flavor.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it is essential to monitor the cake closely. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning. The cake is done when the topping is golden brown and the filling is set.
Step 7: Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired. Cooling the cake slightly will make it easier to slice and serve. Dusting with powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness to the finished dessert. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First and foremost, its simplicity makes it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers. With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up this delightful dessert in no time. Secondly, the combination of flavors is simply irresistible. The bright, zesty lemon complements the sweet and juicy blueberries, while the creamy tang of the cream cheese adds a luscious richness that elevates the cake to a whole new level. The crumbly, buttery topping provides a satisfying textural contrast, making each bite a delightful experience. Finally, this dump cake is incredibly versatile. It can be served warm, at room temperature, or even chilled, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or simply craving a sweet treat, this Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Dump Cake is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
- Garnish with fresh blueberries and lemon zest for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat.
- Pair with a light fruit salad for a refreshing dessert option.
Tips:
- Ensure the cream cheese is thoroughly softened to avoid lumps in the mixture.
- Use high-quality lemon cake mix for the best flavor.
- Add a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries to the pie filling for a more intense blueberry flavor.
- Tent the cake with aluminum foil if the top starts to brown too quickly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate)
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 250mg
Conclusion
The Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a testament to the fact that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and irresistible flavor combination, this cake is a guaranteed winner. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll appreciate the ease and convenience of this recipe. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a slice of pure bliss. This dump cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that will leave you craving more.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of pie filling?
A: Absolutely! While blueberry pie filling is the star of this recipe, you can easily substitute it with other fruit fillings such as cherry, apple, or peach. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q2: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, you can warm it up in the oven or microwave.
Q3: Can I freeze this cake?
A: While it is not recommended to freeze the entire cake, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q4: Can I reduce the sugar content in this recipe?
A: You can try using a sugar-free cake mix or reducing the amount of sugar in the cream cheese mixture. However, keep in mind that this may affect the texture and flavor of the cake.
Q5: Can I use a different type of extract instead of vanilla?
A: Yes, you can experiment with other extracts such as almond or lemon extract to add a different flavor dimension to the cake. Just use a small amount, as extracts can be quite potent.
