Delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
When you need a dessert that is sure to please everyone, look no further than a Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake. This dessert combines the zing of lemon with the rich texture of cream cheese, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. The best part is that it is easy to make, and the ingredients are simple to find.
This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night at home. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting in the kitchen, you can whip up this cake in no time. The flavors are refreshing, and the texture is satisfying, making it an instant favorite among all.
You can serve this cake warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, making it even more delicious!
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to try this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake recipe. First, it does not require any complicated techniques or long preparation times. If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that is simple to make, this is it!
Second, the ingredients are often pantry staples, meaning you might already have what you need at home. You will only need a box of lemon cake mix, a can of lemon pie filling, cream cheese, and butter. This recipe is perfect for last-minute plans or unexpected visitors.
Third, the flavor of this cake is nothing short of amazing. The lemon pie filling gives a burst of tangy sweetness, while the cream cheese adds a creamy and rich element. Together, they create a dessert that is light yet indulgent.
Also, this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a versatile dessert. You can customize it to your liking; for example, you can add berries on top or sprinkle nuts for an extra crunch.
Finally, it is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it at a family barbecue or at a holiday dinner, everyone will be sure to ask for seconds (and maybe even thirds).
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
This cake is incredibly simple to make. Just follow the step-by-step instructions below, and you’ll have a luscious dessert ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
Directions
Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake will bake evenly and properly.
Prepare your baking dish: Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly. You can use butter or cooking spray for this step.
Spread the lemon pie filling: Open the can of lemon pie filling and pour it evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth it out and cover the bottom.
Add cream cheese: Cut the softened cream cheese into small cubes. Scatter these cubes over the lemon pie filling. The cream cheese will melt as it bakes, creating a rich layer.
Sprinkle the cake mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix over the layer of cream cheese. Do not mix it; just spread it out as evenly as you can.
Drizzle melted butter: Take the melted butter and drizzle it over the cake mix. Just like before, do not stir or mix the butter; it will melt into the cake as it cooks.
Bake the cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes. You will know it is ready when the edges are bubbly, and the top is golden.
Let it rest: Once done, take the cake out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set just a little more.
Serve it up: You can serve it warm, and feel free to add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top if desired. Enjoy!
How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Serving Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is as easy as it is delicious. You can cut the cake directly from the baking dish into squares and plate them up. A warm serving right out of the oven is a delightful treat.
Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for a fun twist. The cold ice cream will melt slightly into the warm cake, creating a rich and creamy experience!
You could also accompany this cake with fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries for added color and flavor.
If you’re hosting a gathering, you can slice the cake into smaller squares for easy serving, allowing guests to grab a piece without fuss.
How to Store Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Storing leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is simple. If you have any leftovers (which may be rare), allow the cake to cool completely.
Wrap it up: Once cool, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can transfer the cake to an airtight container.
Refrigerate: Place the wrapped dish or container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days.
Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It should last in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This will help it blend smoothly into the cake as it bakes, giving you a creamier texture.
Don’t Overmix: When sprinkling the cake mix and drizzling the butter, be careful not to overmix. The layers are meant to be somewhat separated for the best texture.
Add Zest for Extra Flavor: If you love a stronger lemon flavor, consider adding some grated lemon zest to the lemon pie filling. It will enhance the bright citrus flavor of the cake.
Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings. You can add sliced almonds or a handful of blueberries. Each will add a different flavor and texture.
Variations
While the classic Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is delicious on its own, you can try some fun variations:
Berry Dump Cake: Add a cup of fresh or frozen berries, like blueberries or raspberries, along with the lemon pie filling. This will give a delightful fruity twist.
Lemon Blueberry Version: Use a combination of lemon pie filling with fresh blueberries for a tangy and sweet dessert.
Mixed Fruit Option: Swap out the lemon pie filling for other pie fillings like cherry, blueberry, or peach. Each will change the flavor profile of your cake.
FAQs
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can make this cake in advance. Prepare it up to 24 hours before serving and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
Can I use homemade lemon pie filling instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade lemon pie filling recipe, feel free to use it in place of the canned option for a more homemade taste.
What can I serve with Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake?
This delicious cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Fresh fruit, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, also make great accompaniments.
Making a Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is simple and rewarding. With its refreshing lemon flavor and creamy texture, it is sure to become a staple dessert in your home. Try it out, and watch as it steals the show at your next gathering!
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish lightly using butter or cooking spray.
- Pour and spread the lemon pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Cut the softened cream cheese into small cubes and scatter these over the lemon pie filling.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix over the layer of cream cheese without mixing.
- Drizzle melted butter over the cake mix without stirring.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until the edges are bubbly and the top is golden.
- Let the cake rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.