Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Fluffy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe: A Zesty Delight

My latest lemon cream cheese dump cake revelation combines zesty citrus magic with creamy comfort in one effortless dessert.

Unexpected flavors dance across a simple landscape of tangy ingredients.

Soft cream cheese swirls create unexpected texture against bright lemon notes.

Kitchen magic happens when minimal effort produces maximum deliciousness.

Simple pantry staples become an extraordinary treat without complicated techniques.

Prepare for a dessert that surprises and delights with its uncomplicated charm.

You’ll want to grab a fork and savor every incredible bite.

Four Simple Ingredients for Lemon Dump Cake Bliss

Main Ingredients:
  • Lemon Pie Filling: A sweet and tangy base that provides the primary fruity flavor for the dump cake.
  • Cream Cheese: A rich and creamy ingredient that adds a smooth texture and subtle tanginess to the dessert.
  • Lemon Cake Mix: A dry mix that creates the cake's structure and enhances the lemon flavor profile.
  • Butter: A rich ingredient that helps bind the cake mix and creates a golden, crispy top layer.
Optional Toppings:
  • Whipped Cream, Powdered Sugar, Fresh Berries: Delightful garnishes that add extra sweetness and visual appeal to the finished dessert.
Baking Essentials:
  • Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch pan that provides the perfect size and shape for this easy dump cake recipe.

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake at Home

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake at Home

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to 350F (175C).

Grab your baking dish and give it a quick spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create The Zesty Base

Grab your lemon pie filling and spread it smoothly across the bottom of the baking dish, making sure it covers every corner with sunny brightness.

Step 3: Whip The Cream Cheese

Grab a mixing bowl and transform your cream cheese into a silky smooth texture.

Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat it until it’s creamy and dreamy.

Step 4: Sprinkle The Magic

Gently shower the dry lemon cake mix over the cream cheese layer.

Don’t mix or stir – just let it sit like a fluffy blanket.

Step 5: Drench With Butter

Pour melted butter evenly across the cake mix.

Watch as it creates little rivers of golden goodness through the layers.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the edges start to bubble with excitement.

Step 7: Cool And Decorate

Let the cake rest and cool slightly.

If you’re feeling fancy, top it with a dollop of whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or some fresh berries for extra pizzazz.

Tips for Tangy, Creamy Lemon Dump Cake Every Time

  • Leave cream cheese at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before beating to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture that blends seamlessly with the pie filling.
  • Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly using a light, gentle hand to create an even layer that will absorb butter uniformly and prevent dry patches.
  • Drizzle melted butter slowly and carefully across the entire surface to guarantee every bit of cake mix gets moistened and creates a delicious golden crust.
  • Swap regular cake mix with a gluten-free lemon cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.

Fun Ways to Switch Up Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

  • Gluten-Free Lemon Delight: Replace regular cake mix with gluten-free lemon cake mix and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Low-Sugar Citrus Option: Substitute sugar-free lemon pie filling and use a sugar-free cake mix to create a diabetic-friendly dessert with reduced calories.
  • Vegan Lemon Dream: Use dairy-free cream cheese alternative, plant-based butter, and vegan lemon cake mix to transform the recipe for plant-based diets.
  • Keto-Friendly Adaptation: Replace traditional cake mix with almond flour, use sugar-free lemon filling, and incorporate cream cheese for a low-carb version that fits ketogenic dietary requirements.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

  • Zesty Dessert Companions: Fresh berry medley scattered on top adds bright, tangy contrast to the creamy lemon cake.
  • Elegant Presentation Twist: Dust with powdered sugar for a delicate, sophisticated look that makes the dessert feel extra special.
  • Creamy Comfort Upgrade: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful temperature and flavor blend that melts in your mouth.
  • Brunch Perfect Pairing: Complement the cake with a light citrus mimosa or fresh lemon tea to enhance the overall lemony experience.

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake: Storing Leftovers Right

  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid to prevent drying out.
  • Wrap individual slices or entire cake in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for 2-3 months. Label with date and contents.
  • Warm individual slices in microwave for 15-20 seconds. For best texture, let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
  • Transfer from freezer to refrigerator overnight. Remove wrapping and bring to room temperature before enjoying. Microwave briefly if desired for a warm serving.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients in this lemon cream cheese dump cake?

The key ingredients are lemon pie filling, cream cheese, lemon cake mix, and butter. These four simple ingredients create a delicious and easy dessert.

  • Is this recipe beginner-friendly?

Yes, this dump cake is extremely easy to make. You simply layer the ingredients in order without mixing, making it perfect for novice bakers or those who want a quick dessert.

  • Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

While you can use low-fat cream cheese, full-fat cream cheese will provide a richer, more creamy texture and better overall flavor for the dump cake.

4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake: A Quick Delight

  • Whip Up Quickly: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this dessert a breeze to prepare, perfect for busy home bakers who want delicious results without complicated techniques.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Tangy lemon and creamy cheese create a delightful combination that appeals to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family gatherings or potluck events.
  • No-Fuss Baking: The dump cake method eliminates complex mixing and measuring, allowing even novice bakers to create a professional-looking dessert with minimal kitchen skills.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Adaptable with different toppings like whipped cream or fresh berries, this cake can be customized to suit various taste preferences and special occasions.
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Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe


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4.8 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Heavenly lemon cream cheese dump cake blends tangy citrus with rich, creamy textures in a simple dessert that delights. Effortless preparation meets pure comfort, inviting you to savor each delectable, zesty bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 box lemon cake mix
  • 1 can (21 ounces / 595 grams) lemon pie filling

Dairy Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of grease to prevent sticking.
  2. Create an even base by spreading the lemon pie filling across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring complete coverage.
  3. Transform the cream cheese into a smooth consistency by beating it thoroughly in a separate mixing bowl, then delicately drop spoonfuls across the pie filling layer.
  4. Distribute the dry lemon cake mix uniformly over the cream cheese layer, maintaining a consistent blanket without disturbing the underlying layers.
  5. Drizzle melted butter evenly across the cake mix, allowing it to penetrate and create a rich, golden surface during baking.
  6. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, watching for a golden-brown top and bubbling edges that indicate complete cooking.
  7. Allow the cake to rest and slightly cool after removing from the oven, enhancing its texture and making it easier to serve. Garnish with optional toppings like whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or fresh seasonal berries for added visual appeal and flavor complexity.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature to create smooth, lump-free dollops across the lemon pie filling.
  • Use unsalted butter for better control of the cake’s overall sweetness, preventing potential excessive saltiness.
  • Transform this dessert into a gluten-free version by substituting regular cake mix with a gluten-free alternative without compromising taste or texture.
  • Consider adding lemon zest directly into the cream cheese layer for an extra burst of citrusy brightness and enhanced flavor complexity.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 365 kcal
  • Sugar: 37 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 21 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

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