This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is pure sunshine in every bite. It’s so easy to make and perfect for sharing with family or friends on any occasion.
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Equipment
- 1 9x13 inch baking dish
- 1 Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 1 can lemon pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 0.33 cup sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish generously.
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of your baking dish.
- In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and alcohol-free vanilla until smooth. Drop spoonfuls on top of the pie filling, spreading gently.
- Evenly sprinkle the lemon cake mix over the cream cheese layer. Pour the melted butter all over the top, covering as much surface as possible.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
The tangy lemon combined with sweet cream cheese gives each bite a delightful balance. It’s fuss-free and doesn’t require any special equipment or fancy steps, so anyone can whip it up in a snap.
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 1 can lemon pie filling
- 225g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
- 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
If you don’t have lemon pie filling, swap in lemon curd or make a homemade filling. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream cheese and butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish generously.
Step 2: Layer the Pie Filling
Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of your baking dish.
Step 3: Cream Cheese Layer
In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and alcohol-free vanilla until smooth. Drop spoonfuls on top of the pie filling, spreading gently.
Step 4: Cake Mix and Butter
Evenly sprinkle the lemon cake mix over the cream cheese layer. Pour the melted butter all over the top, covering as much surface as possible.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Success
- Make sure cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Pour melted butter evenly for a golden, moist topping.
- Let the cake rest for easier slicing and serving.
Variations of Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Swap lemon for mixed berry or cherry pie filling for a different flavor.
- Scatter fresh blueberries or raspberries between the layers for a fruity twist.
- Dust with powdered sugar or add a touch of lemon zest on top for extra zing.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Enjoy with whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy touch.
- Pair with hot tea or fresh lemonade to enhance the citrus notes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 15-20 seconds until just warmed.
- Enjoy cold for a quick and sweet snack.
Memories Made Around the Table
One slice of this cake brings back sunny afternoons playing board games and sharing laughs with family. The sweet, tangy aromas drifted from the kitchen, making everyone gather round for just one more bite.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix?
Absolutely! White or yellow cake mix works well, though it may slightly change the flavor.
What if I don’t have lemon pie filling?
You can use lemon curd or a homemade filling with a similar texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prep and bake in advance. It tastes just as good after chilling in the fridge and reheats beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a true crowd-pleaser that comes together effortlessly. Try it soon and make some sweet memories with every forkful.