If you’re looking for a quick, foolproof dessert that delivers big flavor with minimal effort, this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is exactly what you need. With just a handful of ingredients and no mixing required, this recipe is perfect for last-minute gatherings, weeknight treats, or satisfying a sweet tooth on the fly.
The tangy lemon pie filling, rich cream cheese, and buttery cake topping create an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. The best part? It takes just five minutes to assemble, and the oven does the rest of the work.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
✔ Super Easy – Just layer the ingredients and bake. No mixing bowls, no complicated steps!
✔ Bright & Tangy Flavor – A perfect balance of sweet and citrusy with a creamy surprise in every bite.
✔ Crowd-Pleasing Dessert – Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, and parties—everyone will want seconds!
✔ Customizable – Add white chocolate chips, nuts, or extra lemon zest to make it your own.
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
Ingredients & Their Roles
Main Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix – The foundation of the cake, providing a light, fluffy texture and rich lemon flavor.
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling – Adds moisture and a tangy citrus punch.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed – Creates creamy pockets of rich, tangy goodness throughout the cake.
- ½ cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese layer for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Ensures the cake mix bakes evenly into a golden, buttery crust.
Optional Additions:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth to the cream cheese mixture.
- ¼ cup lemon juice – Enhances the tangy lemon flavor for a bolder citrus taste.
Toppings (Optional, but highly recommended!):
- Whipped cream – A light, airy contrast to the rich cake.
- Fresh lemon slices or zest – Boosts the citrus aroma and makes for a beautiful presentation.
- Powdered sugar – A simple dusting adds the perfect finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the pie filling.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix over the cream cheese layer—no stirring needed!
Step 3: Add the Butter
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly across the dry cake mix, ensuring as much of the surface is covered as possible.
- For an extra burst of citrus, drizzle lemon juice over the top as well.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Let the cake cool for at least 10 minutes before serving—this helps the layers set properly.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Top with whipped cream, powdered sugar, or fresh lemon zest for an extra indulgent touch.
Pro Tips for the Best Dump Cake
✔ For a stronger lemon flavor, add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.
✔ Ensure even butter distribution by using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to spread it over dry areas.
✔ Want a gooier texture? Slightly underbake the cake by 2–3 minutes.
✔ Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat for a few seconds in the microwave before serving.
Perfect Pairings & Serving Ideas
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake pairs beautifully with:
- A hot cup of tea or iced lemonade for a refreshing balance.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy contrast.
- A drizzle of white chocolate sauce for a decadent twist.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is proof that effortless desserts can still be incredibly delicious. Whether you’re making it for a casual family night or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to impress with its bright citrus flavor, creamy pockets of cheesecake, and golden buttery crust.
If you love quick, easy, and mouthwatering desserts, give this recipe a try—you’ll be hooked after the first bite!