Indulge in the delightful fusion of tangy lemon and rich cream cheese with this easy-to-make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake. This dessert combines the zesty brightness of lemon pie filling with the creamy decadence of sweetened cream cheese, all topped with a buttery, golden cake layer. It's a perfect treat for any occasion, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
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Simplicity: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it's accessible even for novice bakers.
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Flavor Balance: The tartness of lemon pairs beautifully with the creamy sweetness of the cream cheese, creating a well-rounded dessert.
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Versatility: Easily adaptable with various fillings or toppings to suit different tastes.
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Convenience: Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, this dessert can be prepared in advance and stored for later enjoyment.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 box yellow cake mix
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1 (21 oz) can lemon pie filling
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup butter, melted
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1 cup powdered sugar
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
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Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
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In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
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Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the lemon pie filling and gently spread it out.
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Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer.
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Pour the melted butter over the top of the cake mix, trying to cover as much surface as possible.
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Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is bubbly.
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Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 8-10
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
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Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Variations
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Fruit Fillings: Use other pie fillings like cherry, blueberry, or apple for different flavors.
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Cake Mix Options: Try white or lemon cake mix for a twist on the classic.
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Toppings: Add whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
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Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before baking for crunch.
storage/reheating
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Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
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Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, white, lemon, or even spice cake mix works well and brings a unique flavor.
2. How can I make the dessert more tangy?
Add lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture or use a lemon-flavored cake mix for extra zing.
3. Can I freeze the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake?
Yes, once cooled, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
4. Can I use light cream cheese?
Light cream cheese can be used, though the texture might be slightly less creamy.
5. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare a day in advance and refrigerate. Reheat before serving for best results.
6. How do I know when the cake is done?
The top should be golden brown and bubbly. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
7. Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of pie filling?
You can make a homemade filling with lemon juice, but it should be thick and sweet like pie filling.
8. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Margarine or butter substitutes can be used, though the flavor and texture might differ slightly.
9. What’s the best way to serve this cake?
Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream to balance the tanginess.
10. Can I add nuts or coconut to this cake?
Yes, both chopped nuts and shredded coconut make great additions before baking.
Conclusion
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that balances tangy and sweet flavors in every bite. Its easy prep and versatile ingredients make it a go-to for gatherings or a spontaneous sweet tooth craving. With a warm, gooey center and a golden topping, it's sure to become a household favorite.
