If you’re in the mood for a sweet, tangy, and creamy dessert that’s incredibly easy to make, look no further than this 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake. With just four simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this cake is a perfect go-to recipe when you want something delicious without all the fuss. The combination of zesty lemon and rich cream cheese creates a balanced flavor that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to make this simple dump cake, provide tips for perfecting it, and explore some optional variations to enhance its flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only four ingredients and a dump-and-bake method, this dessert is incredibly simple to prepare.
- Zesty and Creamy: The bright lemon flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy richness of the cream cheese, making each bite refreshing and satisfying.
- Minimal Cleanup: Since this is a “dump cake,” all the ingredients go straight into the baking dish, reducing the number of dishes to clean.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This cake is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 box lemon cake mix (approximately 15.25 oz)
- 1 can lemon pie filling (21 oz)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Spread the Lemon Pie Filling
Dump the can of lemon pie filling into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly across the bottom of the dish to create the first layer.
Step 3: Add Cream Cheese
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Spoon dollops of the cream cheese evenly over the lemon pie filling layer. You don’t need to spread it perfectly, as it will melt and swirl slightly into the pie filling during baking.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the entire box of lemon cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and lemon pie filling layers. Make sure the cake mix covers everything in an even layer.
Step 5: Drizzle with Butter
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. The butter will help create a golden, crispy topping as the cake bakes.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. The cake mix should form a crispy topping while the cream cheese and lemon filling remains gooey underneath.
Step 7: Serve
Once the cake is done, let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. You can serve this cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy it chilled from the fridge for a more firm texture.
Tips for Success
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before adding it to the cake. This ensures a smooth texture and easy mixing.
- Distribute Butter Evenly: Be sure to drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix, as this will help create that perfect golden-brown, crispy crust.
- Optional Add-Ins: For an extra twist, you can add a layer of fresh blueberries or raspberries under the lemon pie filling. The berries complement the lemon flavor beautifully and add a pop of color.
- Cooling Time: Let the cake cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to set. This makes it easier to slice and serve.
Variations of Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Lemon and Berry Dump Cake: Add a layer of fresh or frozen berries (like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries) between the lemon pie filling and the cream cheese for a fruity twist.
- Lemon-Coconut Dump Cake: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the cake mix before baking for a tropical flavor that pairs perfectly with the lemon.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free lemon cake mix to make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
- Lemon-Lime Twist: Add a bit of lime zest to the cream cheese layer for a tangy lemon-lime flavor combination.
Why Dump Cakes are a Great Dessert Option
Dump cakes are known for their simplicity and versatility. By using pantry staples like cake mix and pie filling, you can create a variety of flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re in a rush or just want to whip up something sweet without a lot of preparation, dump cakes are a go-to dessert that can be customized to suit any occasion.
Plus, dump cakes are perfect for beginner bakers or those who want a no-fuss recipe that still delivers on taste and presentation. This lemon cream cheese version is a delightful balance of tangy and sweet, making it a standout choice among dump cake recipes.
Conclusion
This 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a quick and easy dessert that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. The tangy lemon pie filling combined with the rich cream cheese creates a perfectly balanced dessert that’s both zesty and creamy. With its simple preparation and delicious results, this dump cake is perfect for any occasion—from weeknight treats to special gatherings.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the refreshing taste of lemon in a dessert that’s as easy as it is satisfying!
