Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

There's nothing quite like the bright, citrusy aroma of Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake baking in the oven. The combination of tangy lemon, rich cream cheese, and buttery cake mix creates a dessert that is as effortless as it is delicious. One bite of this warm, gooey cake, and you'll be hooked!

I first discovered this recipe when looking for an easy dessert to bring to a family gathering. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, it quickly became a go-to treat for potlucks, holidays, and weeknight indulgences. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this dump cake is the ultimate low-effort, high-reward dessert.

Why You'll Love This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Get ready to fall in love with a dessert that’s as simple as it is satisfying. This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake checks all the boxes for a perfect sweet treat.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. True to its name, this is a dump-and-bake recipe, meaning no complicated mixing or extra dishes to wash. Just layer the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen.

The flavor is irresistible. The tartness of lemon perfectly balances the creamy, sweet filling, while the golden cake topping adds just the right amount of crunch. Each bite is a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.

It’s also budget-friendly. With only a few pantry staples like cake mix, cream cheese, and canned lemon pie filling, you can whip up this dessert without spending a fortune.

Lastly, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a last-minute dessert for a party or just want to treat yourself, this cake is always a hit. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each component plays a key role in creating the ultimate dessert.

The lemon pie filling is the star of the show. It provides the vibrant citrus flavor and luscious texture that makes this cake shine. If you prefer a homemade touch, you can use homemade lemon curd instead of store-bought filling.

Cream cheese adds a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet lemon. It melts into the cake, creating a creamy layer that makes every bite extra decadent. For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and let it soften at room temperature before adding it to the dish.

A box of yellow or lemon cake mix forms the crumbly, buttery topping that brings everything together. Using a lemon cake mix will enhance the citrus flavor, while a yellow cake mix keeps it classic.

To create the signature buttery topping, you’ll need unsalted butter. Melted butter helps the cake mix turn into a golden, crunchy crust. For a richer taste, you can use browned butter instead.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe—just a 9x13-inch baking dish and an oven! A spatula and a butter knife can help spread the ingredients evenly, but other than that, it’s as fuss-free as it gets.

How To Make This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Making this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake couldn’t be simpler. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. This will form the base layer, ensuring that every bite is packed with bright, citrusy goodness.

Next, cut the cream cheese into small cubes and scatter them over the lemon filling. The cream cheese will soften and blend into the cake as it bakes, creating a velvety contrast to the tart lemon layer.

Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese and lemon layers. Do not stir—keeping the layers separate is what creates the signature texture of a dump cake.

Finally, drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix, making sure to moisten as much of it as possible. This will help create a crispy, golden crust as the cake bakes.

Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. The longer it sits, the more set the layers will become, but it’s also delicious served warm and gooey.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t always the case!), you’ll want to store this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake properly to keep it fresh.

For short-term storage, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cake will firm up in the fridge but remains just as tasty.

To freeze, place slices in an airtight container and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, pop a serving in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm it in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. This brings back the gooey, fresh-out-of-the-oven texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is its versatility. Here are a few ways you can customize it to suit your preferences.

Want even more citrus flavor? Add a handful of fresh lemon zest to the pie filling for an extra zesty kick.

Prefer a different fruit? Swap the lemon pie filling for blueberry, cherry, or strawberry pie filling for a fruity twist on this classic dessert.

For a richer, more decadent version, mix sweetened condensed milk into the cream cheese before layering it onto the cake. This adds an extra creamy and sweet touch.

If you like a little crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the top before baking. The nuts will toast as the cake bakes, adding a delightful texture contrast.

For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese. The results are just as delicious with a slight variation in texture.

Experimenting with different flavors and textures is half the fun. No matter how you make it, this dump cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a dessert lover’s dream—easy, indulgent, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor. Whether you’re making it for a party or just because, this no-fail recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it disappears in minutes!

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