4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

by

4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake 🍋🍰

Introduction

If you love bright citrus flavors and easy-to-make desserts, this 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the perfect treat for you! This dessert is a no-fuss, minimal-effort cake that comes together in minutes. The combination of tangy lemon pie filling, sweet and moist lemon cake mix, creamy cheesecake-like layers, and buttery topping makes for a delicious, gooey, and refreshing dessert.

Dump cakes are an American classic, known for their simplicity and delicious results. Unlike traditional cakes, there’s no need for mixing or complicated steps—just “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work!

Whether you’re serving this for a summer gathering, family dinner, or a quick weeknight dessert, this lemon cream cheese dump cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

  • 1 box lemon cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
  • 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

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.

Step 2: Layer the Lemon Pie Filling

  • Spread the lemon pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese

  • In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  • Drop spoonfuls of cream cheese over the lemon pie filling. Do not spread it out—it will melt and create a creamy layer as it bakes.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix

  • Sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and pie filling layers. Do not stir—this is what gives dump cakes their signature texture!

Step 5: Add the Butter

  • Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix.
  • Try to cover as much of the cake mix as possible to create a crispy, golden topping.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

  • Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
  • Let the cake cool for at least 10–15 minutes before serving.

History of Dump Cakes

Dump cakes have been a staple in American kitchens for decades. They gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s when busy home cooks sought quick and effortless desserts. The method of “dumping” ingredients into a dish without mixing made them incredibly convenient.

While traditional dump cakes often feature fruit fillings and a dry cake mix, variations have evolved, including chocolate, caramel, and citrus-inspired versions like this lemon cream cheese delight.

Formation of the Cake

  • The lemon pie filling creates a sweet, tangy, and moist base.
  • The cream cheese melts into the filling, adding a rich, creamy contrast.
  • The lemon cake mix forms a light, fluffy, and slightly crumbly layer on top.
  • The butter helps create a golden, slightly crispy crust, making every bite irresistible.

Conclusion

This 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a must-try for lemon lovers! It’s zesty, creamy, buttery, and incredibly easy to make. With no complicated steps or mixing, it’s the perfect dessert for beginners or those looking for a last-minute treat. Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience!

Who Loves This Cake?

🍋 Lemon Lovers – If you enjoy citrusy desserts, this is a dream come true!
🧀 Cream Cheese Fans – The cheesecake-like layer makes it extra special.
⏳ Busy Bakers – No need for mixing bowls—just dump, bake, and enjoy!
🎉 Party Hosts – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for gatherings and potlucks.
👩‍🍳 Beginner Bakers – Anyone can make this with ease!

Would you like a chocolate or berry variation of this recipe?

Leave a Comment