Delightfully Simple Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Looking for an easy, yet delicious dessert that will impress your friends and family? This 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the perfect solution. With its tangy lemon flavor and creamy texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This lemon cream cheese dump cake is not only quick and easy to make, but it also packs a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. The creamy cheese layer adds a rich texture, while the lemon provides a refreshing zing. Best of all, with just four simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dessert in no time.
Ingredients
To make this delectable Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, you will need the following four ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) lemon cake mix
- 1 can (21 ounces) lemon pie filling
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a light coating of butter to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Spread the Lemon Pie Filling
Evenly spread the lemon pie filling in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will be the base layer of your dump cake, providing the sweet and tangy lemon flavor.
Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese
Cut the softened cream cheese into small cubes and distribute them evenly over the lemon pie filling. This step adds a rich, creamy layer to the cake.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. Make sure to cover all the cream cheese for a consistent texture throughout the cake.
Step 5: Drizzle with Melted Butter
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix. The butter will help to moisten the cake mix and create a golden, crispy topping as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set and make it easier to slice.
Tips for the Best Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is softened and at room temperature to ensure it mixes smoothly and evenly.
- Even Layering: For the best results, layer each ingredient evenly across the baking dish. This ensures every bite has the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Serving Suggestions: This cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
A: Absolutely! While lemon cake mix complements the lemon pie filling perfectly, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or yellow cake mix for a different twist.
Q: What if I don’t have lemon pie filling?
A: If you can’t find lemon pie filling, you can use a can of lemon curd or make your own from scratch. Alternatively, other fruit pie fillings like blueberry or raspberry can be used for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare this cake a day in advance. Once baked and cooled, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving to bring out the best flavors and textures.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: While butter gives the best flavor and texture, you can substitute margarine if necessary. Keep in mind that the taste might be slightly different.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the cake?
A: Certainly! Adding a cup of fresh berries, a handful of chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of coconut flakes can add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your dump cake.
Final Thoughts
This 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a wonderfully simple and delicious dessert that anyone can make. Its bright lemon flavor and creamy texture make it perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special celebrations. Give it a try, and you might find it becoming a go-to recipe in your household.