If you love easy desserts with a bit of tang and sweetness, Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is going to be a family favorite! With just a handful of ingredients and very little prep, this cake turns out beautifully creamy and bursting with bright lemon flavor.
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Equipment
- 1 9x13 inch baking dish
- 1 medium bowl
Ingredients
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 2 cup lemon pie filling or lemon curd canned or homemade
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 0.5 cup sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Evenly spread the lemon pie filling or lemon curd over the bottom of the dish.
- In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Drop spoonfuls on top of the lemon layer, then gently swirl.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and lemon layers. Do not stir.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the top, making sure to cover as much of the cake mix as possible.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
This dessert requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. The combo of soft cream cheese and sunny lemon in every bite is pure comfort. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply when you’re craving something sweet and uncomplicated.
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 2 cups canned lemon pie filling or lemon curd
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
If you don’t have lemon curd, go with lemon pie filling or vice versa, both work well. Swapping in margarine for butter is fine, but the flavor will be a little less rich.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Step 1: Prep your baking dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Spread the filling
Evenly spread the lemon pie filling or lemon curd over the bottom of the dish.
Step 3: Whip the cream cheese layer
In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Drop spoonfuls on top of the lemon layer, then gently swirl.
Step 4: Add the cake mix
Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and lemon layers. Do not stir.
Step 5: Finish with butter
Drizzle melted butter evenly over the top, making sure to cover as much of the cake mix as possible.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps.
- Drizzle the butter evenly for the best topping texture.
- Don’t stir the layers together, or you’ll lose that “dump cake” effect!
Variations of Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Top with fresh berries before baking for a burst of flavor.
- Try gluten-free cake mix for a different texture.
- Add a sprinkle of coconut or chopped nuts for a new twist.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra creaminess.
- Fresh whipped cream and lemon zest for a pretty finish.
- A hot cup of tea or iced coffee on the side.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Warm individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before serving.
- This cake is just as delicious cold for a quick snack!
Memories Made Around the Table
This cake always brings everyone to the kitchen, drawn in by its sweet aroma. Moments like these, with friends and family gathered for something special, are what baking is all about.
FAQs
Can I use homemade lemon curd instead of canned?
Absolutely, homemade lemon curd is delicious and will add extra fresh flavor to your cake.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare and bake it a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
Try using mascarpone or ricotta. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be creamy and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a cinch to make but feels like something extra special. Whether for a party or just because, it’s sure to brighten any day!