If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make and bursting with citrus flavor, this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the perfect choice. With just four simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and tangy treat that everyone will love. The combination of lemon pie filling, yellow cake mix, cream cheese, and butter creates a delightful dessert with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 (16 oz.) can lemon pie filling
- 1 (15 oz.) package yellow cake mix
- 4 oz. cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, thinly sliced
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Pan:
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- Add Lemon Pie Filling:
- Spread the can of lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add Cake Mix:
- Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the lemon pie filling. Make sure the entire surface is covered with the cake mix.
- Add Cream Cheese:
- Distribute the cubed cream cheese evenly over the top of the cake mix. This will create pockets of creamy goodness throughout the cake.
- Add Butter:
- Arrange the thinly sliced butter evenly over the top of the cake mix and cream cheese. The butter will melt and combine with the cake mix to form a delicious crust.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cake is set. The edges should be slightly bubbly, and a toothpick inserted into the cake part should come out clean.
Step 4: Serve
- Cool:
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut into slices.
- Serve:
- Serve the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake warm, at room temperature, or chilled. It’s delicious on its own or topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cook’s Notes:
- Cake Mix: Make sure to use a standard 15 oz. package of yellow cake mix. You can also try using white or lemon cake mix for a slightly different flavor.
- Butter: Ensure the butter is evenly distributed on top of the cake mix to create a nice, golden crust.
- Serving: This cake can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference. It firms up more as it cools.
Variations:
Low-Carb/Keto Version:
- Substitute the lemon pie filling with a low-carb lemon curd or sugar-free lemon pie filling.
- Use a keto-friendly cake mix, which is available in many specialty stores or online.
- Replace the cream cheese with a sugar-free version.
Gluten-Free Version:
- Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Different Flavors:
- Fruit Variations: Substitute the lemon pie filling with other pie fillings such as blueberry, cherry, or apple for a different flavor.
- Topping Variations: Add some shredded coconut or chopped nuts on top of the butter before baking for extra texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh lemons instead of lemon pie filling? A: Lemon pie filling provides the right consistency and sweetness for this recipe. However, you could make a homemade lemon filling if you prefer.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat slices in the microwave before serving, if desired.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The cake can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the dump cake? A: Yes, you can customize the cake by adding ingredients such as shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or even fresh berries on top before baking.
Q: What can I serve with this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake? A: This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar on top.
This 4 Ingredients Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the epitome of an easy, yet incredibly tasty dessert. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. The creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors blend beautifully, making this a dessert you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy this delightful treat with your loved ones and savor the delicious simplicity!
