This delightful Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese. It’s an effortless recipe that delivers a burst of flavor and a satisfying texture, making it perfect for any occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is not only incredibly easy to make, but it also requires minimal effort and ingredients. The combination of lemon pie filling and cream cheese creates a luscious base that is perfectly complemented by the buttery cake topping. Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply a sweet treat at home, this cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, it can be served warm or cold, making it versatile for any season!
Introduction
When it comes to desserts, few things are as satisfying as a cake that requires little prep time but delivers big flavor. The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the epitome of simplicity and deliciousness. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. This recipe is perfect for busy bakers and those who want to impress without the fuss. The zesty lemon filling combined with the creamy cheese and soft cake makes for a delightful treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or lemon cake mix
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will serve as the tangy base for your cake.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial to ensure that the cream cheese integrates well into the cake.
Step 4: Using a spoon, drop dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the lemon pie filling. Don’t worry about spreading it out evenly; it will melt and blend during baking.
Step 5: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese and lemon filling. Make sure to cover as much of the surface as possible for an even bake. Finally, drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring it saturates the dry mix for a rich, buttery flavor.
Baking Note:
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The edges should be slightly crispy while the center remains soft and gooey. Once baked, let the cake cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
For an extra touch of indulgence, serve the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can also enhance the presentation and flavor.
Tips:
- If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.
- This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.
- Experiment with different pie fillings, such as blueberry or cherry, for a fun variation on this recipe.
Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 340mg
Conclusion
The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a fantastic dessert that combines ease and flavor in one delightful package. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your household. Its bright lemon flavor and creamy texture create a dessert experience that is both comforting and refreshing. Enjoy this cake warm or chilled, and watch as it disappears from the plate!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?
A1: Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute the lemon pie filling with any fruit pie filling you prefer, such as cherry, blueberry, or peach.
Q2: How can I make this cake gluten-free?
A2: To make this cake gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure that the pie filling is also gluten-free.
Q3: Can I prepare this cake in advance?
A3: Yes, you can prepare the cake in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just be sure to bake it on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.
Q4: What can I serve with this cake?
A4: This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruit. You can also drizzle it with a lemon glaze for extra flavor.
Q5: How long does this cake last?
A5: The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover it with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh.
