This Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a real treat! With its bright lemon flavor and creamy cheese layer, you get a perfect blend of sweet and tart, all topped with a buttery crust.
Honestly, this cake is super easy to make! You just mix, dump, and bake—no fuss! I love serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is crucial for a smooth mixture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel can work well as a substitute; it has less fat but similar taste.
Lemon Pie Filling: This gives the cake its tangy flavor. If you can’t find it, homemade lemon curd can be a delicious alternative, adding a fresh taste.
Yellow Cake Mix: While this is convenient, you can use any boxed cake mix you prefer, such as lemon, vanilla, or even gluten-free options if needed. Each will give a different twist to the flavor!
Unsalted Butter: If you’re out of unsalted butter, you can use salted butter, just know that it may slightly alter the sweetness. Coconut oil is a dairy-free alternative for a unique flavor.
How Do You Get the Best Texture from Your Dump Cake?
The texture of your dump cake is key to its success. Here’s how to ensure it comes out perfectly:
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth mixture. If it’s too cold, it won’t mix well.
- When combining the cake mix and melted butter, don’t overmix! Just blend until it’s crumbly for that perfect cake topping.
- Baking it until golden is important; start checking at 30 minutes. The top should be a light brown, and it should feel set when gently shaken.
How to Make Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake With A Buttery Crust
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For The Lemon Layer:
- 2 cups lemon pie filling
For The Cake Topping:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For Garnishing (Optional):
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Lemon zest (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. After baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Overall, you’ll spend about one hour from start to finish. Perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This will be the perfect home for our delicious cake!
2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Whip it until it’s nice and smooth—this might take a minute or two. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until everything is well combined.
3. Layer the Cream Cheese Mixture:
Spread the creamy mixture evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. This is going to form a lovely base for our cake!
4. Add the Lemon Filling:
Next, pour the lemon pie filling over the cream cheese layer. Make sure to spread it out evenly so every bite has that zesty flavor!
5. Prepare the Cake Topping:
In another bowl, mix the yellow cake mix with the melted butter. Use a spoon or fork to mix it until it’s crumbly. Once that’s done, sprinkle this mix evenly over the lemon layer you just created. It’s going to add a lovely buttery crust!
6. Bake the Cake:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful golden top and the cake should feel set when you gently touch it.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. For the finishing touch, if you’d like, dust the top with powdered sugar and sprinkle some lemon zest on for a vibrant look!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the cake and serve it warm or chilled—whichever you prefer! Enjoy your Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, and get ready for everyone to ask for the recipe!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese Instead?
Absolutely! You can use low-fat cream cheese if you prefer a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly less creamy, but the flavor will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To enjoy it warm, simply microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through.
Can I Substitute Lemon Pie Filling with Another Flavor?
Yes, you can definitely experiment! Try using different flavors of pie filling, such as blueberry, cherry, or apple. Just keep in mind that the overall taste will change accordingly, but it will be just as delightful!
Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
Sure! Just swap the yellow cake mix for a gluten-free cake mix. Be sure to check the baking instructions on the gluten-free mix, as baking times may vary slightly.
