Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Nothing beats the tangy zip of lemon paired with creamy decadence and buttery crumbs in this lemon cream cheese dump cake It is the one dessert I make when company arrives unexpectedly or when my family is craving something bright and cheerful with no stress in the kitchen

After the first time I brought this to a family BBQ it instantly became the most requested dessert even from folks who do not usually pick lemon desserts

Ingredients

• Yellow cake mix or lemon cake mix: for extra zest Always check for a mix that is fresh smelling and not clumped
• Unsalted butter, melted: Quality butter helps the crumb topping taste richer
• Lemon pie filling: Look for a brand with real lemon ingredients and a vibrant yellow color
• Cream cheese, softened: Full fat is best for a lush texture let it come to room temp for easy beating
• Granulated sugar: This sweetens the cheese layer and balances the tang
• Vanilla extract: Pure vanilla brings warmth to the creamy filling
• Egg: Acts as a binder for the cheese mixture
• Lemon zest: Adds fresh citrus aroma and flavor Use an unwaxed lemon and zest only the yellow part
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): for a pretty finish Use fresh and lump free sugar

Step by Step Instructions

Preheat the oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius and lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish Make sure you coat the dish completely so nothing sticks

Prepare the cake base:

In a large mixing bowl thoroughly combine the cake mix with melted butter Use a fork or your fingertips to make coarse crumbs Press about half the crumb mixture gently and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan forming a solid crust

Add the lemon filling:

Spread your lemon pie filling smoothly over the crumb base Ensure the filling covers the base edge to edge for even lemon flavor in each bite

Mix the creamy layer:

In a separate bowl beat the softened cream cheese granulated sugar egg vanilla extract and lemon zest Keep beating until the mixture is velvety and smooth with no lumps Spoon or gently spread this over the lemon filling so the cheese mixture covers as much lemon as possible

Add crumble topping:

Scatter the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer Small gaps are fine since you want a rustic crumb look The top will brown and crisp as it bakes

Bake the cake:

Slide your pan into the hot oven and let it bake for thirty five to forty minutes Watch for the top to turn golden and the cream cheese layer to set with only the faintest wiggle in the middle

Cool and serve:

Remove the cake and let it cool for at least forty five minutes This resting time is important to let the layers hold together neatly Sprinkle with powdered sugar if you want or top with vanilla ice cream for an even more indulgent treat

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My favorite part is using lemon zest because it brings an irreplaceable fresh aroma to every bite It always reminds me of summers baking with my grandmother who let me zest the lemons and sneak little tastes before it went in the oven

Storage Tips

Cover leftover dump cake tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to four days It tastes especially good chilled from the fridge but you can also warm individual slices in the microwave for fifteen seconds for a just baked flavor If freezing slice cooled cake and wrap well in foil and plastic before freezing it keeps for up to one month

Ingredient Substitutions

You can try this cake with a vanilla or white cake mix if you want something even milder Or switch in orange or berry pie filling for a whole new vibe For the cream cheese layer light cream cheese works but the texture is a little less rich One reader swears by adding a splash of lemon juice to the cheese filling for extra brightness

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cake simply dusted with powdered sugar or go all out with whipped cream and lemon slices It is a hit at brunches and picnics and pairs beautifully with a cup of black tea or a glass of cold milk My kids also love it topped with fresh berries for a special occasion

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Cultural and Historical Context

Dump cakes are a classic American dessert born out of the need for simple quick and shareable treats This version mixes traditional southern cream cheese bars with the lemony flavors popular across the country over the years It is a great way to showcase citrus in a familiar comfort food format

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, yellow, lemon, vanilla, or white cake mix all work well, each adding a unique flavor profile.

→ How do I avoid runny cream cheese filling?

Always soften cream cheese fully to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.

→ Can I reduce the sweetness?

Use less sugar in the cheese layer, or choose a tart pie filling for balanced sweetness.

→ Is this dessert best eaten warm or cold?

Let it cool for at least 45 minutes. The layers firm up and flavors meld, but you may enjoy it slightly warm or chilled.

→ Can other pie fillings be used?

Absolutely! Try cherry, apple, or pineapple pie filling to create your own favorite combinations.

→ What toppings go well with this dessert?

Dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.