Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my latest obsession: this *lemon dump cake with cream cheese*! It’s honestly one of those desserts that just brightens your day. I remember the first time I made it; the vibrant lemon aroma filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dive in. The refreshing flavors of tart lemon paired with a creamy layer of cream cheese create a delightful balance that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! Just a few ingredients and minimal effort, and you’ve got a showstopper dessert that’ll impress anyone who takes a bite!
Ingredients List
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 1 can lemon pie filling (about 21 ounces)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature for easy blending
- 1/2 cup butter, melted until just warm
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted for a smooth texture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for added flavor
- 1/2 cup water, to combine with the cake mix
How to Prepare Lemon Dump Cake with Cream Cheese
This lemon dump cake with cream cheese is as easy to make as it is delicious! Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal later. While the oven heats, blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until it’s smooth and creamy. This will create a lovely layer that complements the bright lemon flavor. Now, spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. Next, drop spoonfuls of your cream cheese mixture over the pie filling—don’t worry about making it perfect; the cake will come together beautifully as it bakes! In another bowl, mix the lemon cake mix with the melted butter and water until just combined. Pour this cake mixture over the top, spreading it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool for a bit before serving to let those flavors meld. Oh, the anticipation!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheating the oven is crucial for even baking, so don’t skip this step! Greasing your baking dish properly ensures your cake comes out easily without sticking.
Making the Cream Cheese Mixture
Blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This will give you a creamy texture that’s essential for that delightful layer in your cake!
Assembling the Cake
Spread the lemon pie filling in the greased dish first, then drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top. Finally, pour the cake mix mixture over everything. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just layer it all in!
Baking and Cooling
Bake the cake for 35-40 minutes. After baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling time is key to letting those flavors meld together beautifully!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for last-minute gatherings!
- Refreshing lemon flavor that’s bright and uplifting.
- Creamy cream cheese layer adds a delightful richness.
- Crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to impress.
- Minimal cleanup—just one baking dish required!
Tips for Success
To ensure your lemon dump cake with cream cheese turns out perfectly, always use high-quality ingredients. For the best flavor, opt for a premium lemon pie filling and fresh, full-fat cream cheese. Make sure your butter is melted but not too hot, as this can affect the cake’s texture. When mixing the cake batter, stir gently to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake. And here’s a little secret: adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture boosts that tangy flavor! Trust me, it’s worth it!
Variations of Lemon Dump Cake with Cream Cheese
Get ready to have some fun with this lemon dump cake! You can switch things up by using different fruit fillings—try a blueberry or raspberry pie filling for a delightful twist! If you want to play with flavors, substitute the lemon cake mix with a vanilla or almond cake mix for a unique take. For an extra burst of flavor, fold in some fresh berries or even chopped nuts into the cream cheese layer. Feeling adventurous? You could also drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the top once it’s cooled for an added zing! The possibilities are endless!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for one slice of this delicious lemon dump cake with cream cheese:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Sugar: 20g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store any leftovers of your lemon dump cake with cream cheese, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, just until warmed through. Enjoy the refreshing flavor again!
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about my lemon dump cake with cream cheese? I’ve got answers! First off, how long can you store it? Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. As for toppings, whipped cream is a classic choice, but feel free to get creative with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar! If you can’t find lemon pie filling, you can substitute it with a homemade lemon curd instead—just be sure to adjust the sweetness. And if you’re looking for a lighter version, using low-fat cream cheese works too, though the texture may be slightly different!
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Lemon Dump Cake with Cream Cheese: 5 Easy Steps to Delight
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful lemon dump cake with a creamy cheese layer for a refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 1 can lemon pie filling
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the pie filling.
- In another bowl, mix the lemon cake mix with water and melted butter until just combined.
- Pour the cake mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- For a more intense lemon flavor, add lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.
- Serve with whipped cream for added richness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: lemon dump cake, cream cheese dessert, lemon cake recipe
