Description
If you’re craving a bright, creamy, and effortless dessert, Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is exactly what you need! This sweet and tangy treat combines layers of zesty lemon, rich cream cheese, and a buttery cake topping—all “dumped” into a pan with minimal prep. It’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or whenever you need an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert.
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Ingredients
For the Dump Cake:
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1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
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1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened and cut into small cubes
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1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Optional for Serving:
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Whipped cream
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Fresh berries
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Powdered sugar dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
Step 2: Layer the Lemon Pie Filling
Spread the lemon pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Use a spatula to smooth it out into a thin, even layer.
Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese
Evenly distribute the cream cheese cubes over the lemon filling.
The cream cheese will melt into creamy pockets of deliciousness as it bakes.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and lemon layers.
Do not stir—this is key for that classic dump cake texture.
Step 5: Drizzle with Butter
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix.
Make sure to cover as much surface area as possible to get a buttery, golden crust.
Step 6: Add Extra Sweetness (Optional)
For a little extra sweetness and sparkle, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar over the top before baking.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
The cake will be slightly gooey in the center—that’s part of the charm!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the dump cake cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving.
Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a few fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
Use Softened Cream Cheese – It melts more evenly and creates creamier pockets.
Don’t Stir the Layers – Let the magic happen naturally while baking.
Cover Evenly with Butter – This ensures no dry patches in the cake topping.
Serve Warm – It’s incredibly comforting when slightly warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Cuisine: American