Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy zest of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all topped with a buttery, crumbly cake layer. This recipe is perfect for those who love easy-to-make desserts that don’t compromise on flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet, this dump cake is sure to impress. The best part? It requires minimal effort and only a handful of ingredients. Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible treat!
Recipe:
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a no-fuss dessert that lives up to its name—you simply “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the rest. The result is a luscious, gooey lemon filling layered with creamy pockets of cream cheese and a golden, crumbly cake topping. This recipe is ideal for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, as it requires no complicated techniques or fancy equipment. With its bright citrus flavor and rich texture, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
To make this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 can (16 oz) lemon pie filling
– 1 package (15 oz) yellow cake mix
– 4 oz cream cheese, cubed into small pieces
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, sliced into thin pats
These simple ingredients come together to create a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. The lemon pie filling provides a tangy sweetness, while the cream cheese adds a creamy contrast. The yellow cake mix and butter form a crispy, buttery topping that ties everything together.
Directions/Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to prepare your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake:
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and achieves the perfect texture.
2. **Prepare the Baking Dish:** Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter. This prevents the cake from sticking to the dish and makes cleanup a breeze.
3. **Layer the Lemon Pie Filling:** Pour the entire can of lemon pie filling into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly across the bottom.
4. **Add the Cream Cheese:** Scatter the cubed cream cheese evenly over the lemon pie filling. The cream cheese will melt slightly during baking, creating pockets of creamy goodness throughout the cake.
5. **Sprinkle the Cake Mix:** Open the box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the lemon pie filling and cream cheese. Do not stir or mix the layers—this is what gives the cake its signature “dump” style.
6. **Top with Butter:** Arrange the thin slices of butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. Make sure to cover as much of the surface as possible, as the butter will melt and help create a crispy, golden topping.
7. **Bake the Cake:** Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
8. **Cool and Serve:** Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice. Serve warm, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
FAQ:
1. **Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?**
Absolutely! While lemon pie filling gives this dessert its signature tangy flavor, you can experiment with other flavors like cherry, blueberry, or apple for a different twist.
2. **Can I use homemade lemon pie filling instead of canned?**
Yes, you can use homemade lemon pie filling if you prefer. Just make sure it has a similar consistency to the canned version to ensure the cake bakes properly.
3. **Can I make this recipe ahead of time?**
This cake is best served fresh, but you can prepare it a few hours in advance and reheat it gently in the oven before serving.
4. **Can I use a different type of cake mix?**
While yellow cake mix works perfectly for this recipe, you can try using white or even lemon cake mix for an extra citrusy flavor.
5. **How should I store leftovers?**
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven before enjoying.
Conclusion:
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a dessert that proves simplicity can be incredibly satisfying. With its vibrant lemon flavor, creamy cream cheese pockets, and buttery cake topping, this recipe is a winner for any occasion. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this dump cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and give this delightful dessert a try. Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you!