Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that brings together the zesty flavor of lemon and the creamy richness of cheese. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special celebrations. With its layers of lemon pie filling and cream cheese, this recipe guarantees a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, it requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy bakers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it perfect for weeknight desserts.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of lemon and cream cheese creates a mouthwatering dessert that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with ice cream or cool with a dusting of powdered sugar; it’s versatile for any mood!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a potluck, birthday party, or just a treat for yourself, this cake fits all events.
- Layered Texture: The unique layering of cake mix, lemon filling, and cream cheese adds a delightful texture to each slice.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making this delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for even baking and allows the cake to rise beautifully.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep ingredients organized while preparing different layers.
- Electric mixer or whisk: This tool makes it easy to achieve a smooth cream cheese mixture without lumps.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring no ingredients go to waste.
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 Layers
- 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
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). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure your cake comes out easily after baking.
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 this mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Press it down lightly to create a solid base.
Step 3: Add the Lemon Filling
Spread 1.5 to 2 cans of lemon pie filling over the cake mix base. Make sure it’s evenly distributed so that every bite has that refreshing lemon flavor.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Layer
In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. Spoon or spread this creamy mixture over the lemon pie filling to create another delicious layer.
Step 5: Top with Remaining Cake Mix
Sprinkle the remaining cake mix mixture over the cream cheese layer. There’s no need for full coverage; leaving some areas exposed will give your cake an attractive crumble effect.
Step 6: Bake
Place your cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. The cake is done when the cream cheese layer is set and no longer jiggly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow your cake to cool for at least 45 minutes before slicing. The layers will firm up as they cool. For an extra touch of sweetness before serving, dust with powdered sugar or pair with vanilla ice cream! Enjoy this delightful Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake!
How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Serving your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is just as important as making it. With its rich flavors and delightful texture, this cake can be enjoyed in various ways to elevate your dessert experience.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve slices of the dump cake with a handful of fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a pop of color and freshness. The tartness of the berries complements the sweet lemon flavor perfectly.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Pair the warm cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy ice cream melts into the warm cake, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Drizzled with Lemon Glaze
- Add an extra layer of lemon flavor by drizzling a simple lemon glaze over each slice. Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice for a sweet and tangy topping.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Lightly dollop whipped cream on each serving. This adds a fluffy texture that balances out the richness of the cream cheese layer.
Garnished with Mint Leaves
- For a touch of freshness, garnish each slice with mint leaves or lemon zest. This not only enhances presentation but also adds a refreshing aroma.
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 Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated to maintain a light and fluffy cake.
- Adjust Lemon Flavor: If you love lemon, use lemon cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for an even stronger citrus flavor.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is done; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
- Let It Cool: Allowing the cake to cool completely helps set the layers and makes slicing easier.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to three days.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Enhance your dessert experience by serving delicious side dishes alongside your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake. Here are some tasty options:
- Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing palate cleanser that brings out the citrus flavors in your dump cake.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cake while adding vibrant colors.
- Cheese Platter: Offer soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese which pair nicely with dessert and provide savory contrast.
- Pecan Pie Bites: These bite-sized treats add crunchiness and richness that balance well with the creamy dump cake.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The combination of chocolate and strawberries offers indulgence alongside your citrus dessert.
- Mini Tartlets: Serve mini tartlets filled with lemon curd for an elegant touch that echoes the main dessert’s flavor profile.
- Coffee or Tea: Brewed beverages can enhance your tasting experience, providing warmth and depth against sweet flavors.
- Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a light option that contrasts nicely with richer desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe, it’s easy to go wrong. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold cream cheese: Always soften your cream cheese before mixing. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your filling.
- Skipping the zest: Don’t skip the lemon zest! It adds essential flavor that elevates your cake.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make your cake dense instead of light and airy.
- Not greasing the pan: Always grease your baking dish well. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the cake.
- Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking a few minutes early.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
- Wrap pieces of the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe:
Can I use other flavors of pie filling?
Yes! While lemon is delightful, you can experiment with other fruit fillings like cherry or blueberry for different flavors.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free cake mix.
Can I substitute other types of cheese?
You could try mascarpone or ricotta for a different texture, but cream cheese is recommended for its tanginess.
How long does it take to cool before serving?
Allow the cake to cool for at least 45 minutes before slicing. This helps set the layers nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is not just easy to make but also incredibly delicious. You can customize it by adding fresh berries or using different flavored pie fillings. Encourage friends and family to try this simple yet satisfying dessert that will surely impress anyone who tastes it!
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe, an effortless yet impressive dessert that combines zesty lemon with creamy richness. Perfect for any occasion, this cake features layers of luscious lemon pie filling and smooth cream cheese, all topped with a crumbly cake mix. Ideal for busy bakers, this recipe requires minimal prep time while ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite. Serve warm with ice cream or cool with a dusting of powdered sugar for a refreshing treat that will wow your guests!
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or lemon cake mix)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1.5 to 2 cans lemon pie filling (21 oz each)
- 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 with melted butter until crumbly; spread half in the prepared pan.
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly over the cake mix base.
- In another bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth; pour over the lemon filling.
- Sprinkle remaining cake mix on top and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool for at least 45 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
