Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weeknight treat. This delightful cake combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the rich creaminess of cream cheese, creating a unique and satisfying dessert. With minimal effort and ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires little prep time, making it perfect for busy days.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon pie filling and cream cheese creates a deliciously tangy and creamy flavor.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, this dump cake fits any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its delightful taste and appealing presentation make it a favorite among friends and family.
- Minimal Cleanup: One bowl for mixing means less mess in the kitchen.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe smoothly, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Measuring cups
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients comfortably without spills.
- 9×13-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for even baking and easy serving of your dump cake.
- Electric mixer: While not necessary, an electric mixer makes beating the cream cheese mixture quicker and smoother.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or lemon cake mix for extra lemon flavor)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 1.5 to 2 cans (21 oz) lemon pie filling
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 12 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
Optional Topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This will ensure your cake comes out without sticking to the edges.
Step 2: Prepare the Bottom Cake Layer
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with melted butter. Mix until crumbly. Spread about half of the cake mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing it down lightly to create a base.
Step 3: Add the Lemon Filling
Spread 1.5 to 2 cans of lemon pie filling over the cake mix base. Ensure it’s evenly distributed for that burst of lemony goodness in every bite.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. Spoon or spread this mixture over the lemon pie filling, creating another delicious layer.
Step 5: Top with Remaining Cake Mix
Sprinkle the remaining cake mix mixture over the cream cheese layer. It doesn’t need to completely cover the cheese layer; the crumble effect will give the cake a lovely texture and rustic look.
Step 6: Bake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. The cake will be ready when the cream cheese layer is set and no longer jiggly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool for at least 45 minutes before slicing. The layers will firm up as it cools. You can dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness before serving or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a complete dessert experience!
How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Serving your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake can elevate its deliciousness. The cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion.
With Whipped Cream
- A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the rich cream cheese layer.
With Fresh Berries
- Top the cake with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Pairing a slice with vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast between warm cake and cold dessert. It’s a classic combination!
Drizzled with Lemon Glaze
- A quick lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice enhances the lemon flavor and gives the cake an appealing shine.
Dusting with Powdered Sugar
- A simple dusting of powdered sugar before serving makes for an elegant presentation. It also adds a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.
How to Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemons and high-quality cream cheese will enhance the overall flavor.
- Mix Well: Ensure that the cake mix and butter are well combined to create a nice crumbly base.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cake toward the end of the baking time to prevent it from becoming dry.
- Let It Cool: Allowing the cake to cool for at least 45 minutes helps set the layers for easier slicing.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add extra lemon zest or even poppy seeds for added texture and taste.
- Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Pairing your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake with side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside it:
-
Mixed Green Salad
A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake. -
Fruit Salad
A medley of seasonal fruits can complement the lemon flavor while adding natural sweetness. -
Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses can balance out the sweet flavors, making for an interesting combination. -
Lemonade or Iced Tea
Refreshing beverages like lemonade or mint iced tea offer a thirst-quenching pairing that matches well with dessert. -
Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
Layered vanilla yogurt with granola adds creaminess and crunch, working well with the dump cake’s textures. -
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
These decadent treats provide a rich contrast that pairs beautifully with lemon flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake a hit. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using cold cream cheese: Cold cream cheese can create lumps in your mixture. Always soften it first for a smooth texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can lead to inconsistent results. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure precision.
- Skipping the cooling step: Cutting into the cake too soon can cause the layers to collapse. Let it cool for at least 45 minutes before slicing.
- Overbaking: Baking too long can dry out the cake. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes; it should be golden brown and set.
- Not using enough lemon filling: Insufficient lemon pie filling will make your cake less flavorful. Use 1.5 to 2 cans for that vibrant lemon taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe that might help you out.
Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?
Absolutely! While lemon is delightful, you can experiment with other flavors like cherry or blueberry for a unique twist.
How long does it take to prepare this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe?
The prep time is about 15 minutes, and once baked, you need to let it cool for at least 45 minutes before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What toppings go well with this dump cake?
Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even fresh berries complement this dessert beautifully.
Final Thoughts
The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different fruit toppings or experimenting with flavors. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Don’t hesitate—try making this delightful dessert today!
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x
Description
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that effortlessly combines the tangy zest of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese. This simple yet impressive treat is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights in. With minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful cake that’s sure to wow your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. Each bite offers a burst of citrusy goodness, complemented by a light cake base and a luscious cream cheese layer. Whether served warm or chilled, topped with whipped cream or fresh berries, this dump cake is an irresistible indulgence that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1.5 to 2 cans (21 oz) lemon pie filling
- 12 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and melted butter until crumbly. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly over the base layer.
- In another bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. Spread this mixture over the lemon filling.
- Sprinkle the remaining cake mix on top; it doesn’t need to fully cover the cream cheese layer.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and set. Allow cooling for at least 45 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
