Looking for a deliciously simple dessert that promises to delight your taste buds without the hassle of intricate preparation? This 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is your answer. Perfect for spring picnics, summer barbecues, or any time you crave a tangy lemon flavor paired with creamy cheese, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in a snap.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Ingredients: With just four basic ingredients, this recipe is both affordable and easy to prepare.
- No Mixing Required: The beauty of a dump cake lies in its simplicity. There’s no need to mix; just layer the ingredients and bake!
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks, and it’s sure to impress.
- Deliciously Tangy and Sweet: The lemon’s zesty flavor combined with the creaminess of the cheese creates a perfectly balanced dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 1 can (20 oz) lemon pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Directions
- Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cake comes out easily after baking.
- Dump the Cake Mix: Pour the lemon cake mix evenly into your prepared baking dish. This forms the base of your dessert.
- Add Lemon Pie Filling: Next, spoon the lemon pie filling over the cake mix layer, spreading it out to cover the cake mix as evenly as possible.
- Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth. Then, drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese over the lemon pie filling layer. These dollops of cream cheese will bake into creamy pockets within the cake.
- Melted Butter Finish: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire cake. This will help to moisten the cake mix and give the cake a rich, golden top as it bakes.
- Bake to Perfection: Place your cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges start to turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting into squares. This cake is delightful on its own or can be served with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dolop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.
Preparation Time:
- Approximately 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yields: 12 servings
Serving and Storage Tips:
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake not only delights with its tangy and creamy flavor but also shines in its simplicity. Here are some expert tips on how to serve and store this delightful dessert to ensure it remains as delicious as the moment it came out of the oven.
Serving Tips:
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This slight cooling period helps the flavors to set and makes cutting easier, providing cleaner slices.
- Adding Toppings: While this cake is a treat on its own, you can elevate it with simple toppings. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet touch, while a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can make it even more indulgent. Fresh berries also complement the lemon flavor beautifully.
- Serving Temperature: This cake is delicious whether served warm or at room temperature. Serving it slightly warm can enhance the creamy texture and bright flavors of the lemon.
Storage Tips:
- Cool Completely Before Storing: If you have leftovers, make sure the cake has cooled completely before you plan to store it. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which could make the cake soggy.
- Refrigerate: Due to the cream cheese, it’s best to store this cake in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. Properly stored, the cake can last up to 5 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: If you’d like to keep the cake for longer, freezing is an option. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake securely in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Stored this way, the cake can last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Revitalizing Leftovers: If you find the cake has dried out a bit after storage, a quick fix is to microwave a slice for a few seconds before serving. This can help to restore some of its moisture and warmth, making it nearly as good as when it was fresh.
variations:
1. Berry Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Ingredients: Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen mixed berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries) on top of the lemon pie filling before adding the cream cheese layer. This not only introduces a new layer of flavor but also adds a beautiful color contrast.
- Why Try It: The berries add a sweet and slightly tart flavor that complements the lemon beautifully, making it perfect for summer gatherings.
2. Lemon Coconut Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Ingredients: Mix 1 cup of shredded coconut into the cake mix before dumping it into the baking dish. You can also sprinkle some on top before baking for added texture.
- Why Try It: Coconut brings a tropical twist to the cake, offering a delightful texture and rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tanginess of the lemon.
3. Chocolate Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Ingredients: Use a chocolate cake mix instead of lemon and proceed with the rest of the recipe as directed. The chocolate and lemon create a surprisingly harmonious blend.
- Why Try It: If you’re a fan of the classic chocolate-orange combination, this variation provides a similar contrast of flavors but with a unique twist, perfect for chocolate lovers looking for something different.
4. Lemon Blueberry Almond Dump Cake
- Ingredients: Add 1 cup of blueberries over the lemon pie filling layer and sprinkle sliced almonds over the top before baking.
- Why Try It: Blueberries and almonds add a fresh and crunchy element to the cake, enhancing its texture and introducing a nutty flavor that complements the lemon.
5. Gluten-Free Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Ingredients: Substitute the regular lemon cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Why Try It: Making a gluten-free version ensures everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert without dietary concerns.
6. Lemon Peach Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Ingredients: Use peach pie filling instead of lemon pie filling for a softer, sweeter taste, and add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the cake mix for a hint of spice.
- Why Try It: The peach version offers a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, making it a perfect dessert for late summer when peaches are in season.
7. Vegan Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Ingredients: Use a vegan cake mix, a can of vegan lemon custard or pie filling, dairy-free cream cheese, and vegan butter.
- Why Try It: This allows those following a vegan lifestyle to enjoy a similar indulgent dessert without compromising their dietary choices.
FAQs:
- Can I make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare this cake a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator covered, and if desired, gently reheat in the oven or serve at room temperature.
- Can I use homemade lemon pie filling instead of canned?
- Absolutely! Homemade lemon pie filling can be used and may even enhance the flavor. Just ensure it’s cooled before using.
- Is there a dairy-free alternative to cream cheese?
- Yes, there are several dairy-free cream cheeses available on the market that work well in this recipe. Look for a brand that suits your taste preferences.
This 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a hassle-free ticket to enjoying the finer things in life without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to produce a dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Try it today and watch it become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
