- 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow or white cake mix (plus the ingredients listed on the box, like eggs, oil, or butter)
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Fresh berries (like raspberries or blueberries)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a small mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese over the lemon pie filling, spreading gently to create an even layer (it doesn’t have to be perfect—it will melt into the cake during baking).
3. Add the Cake Mix
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. Do not stir!
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. Make sure most of the dry mix is covered with butter for a crispy, golden topping.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Bake the dump cake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
5. Cool and Serve
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving (it’s delicious warm but also great at room temperature).
- Dust with powdered sugar, add fresh berries, or serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of lemon flavor, sprinkle some fresh lemon zest over the pie filling before adding the cream cheese layer.
- Switch Up the Cake Mix: Try using a lemon-flavored cake mix for an even more intense citrus kick.
- Make It Extra Cheesy: Add an extra 4 oz of cream cheese for a thicker, creamier layer.
- Add Berries: Stir fresh or frozen berries into the lemon pie filling for a fruity twist.
- Double the Recipe: Use two cans of pie filling and double the other ingredients for a larger crowd.
Why This Recipe Works
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake combines the simplicity of a dump cake with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake and the zesty brightness of lemon. The pie filling creates a juicy base, while the cream cheese adds a luscious middle layer. The cake mix, topped with melted butter, transforms into a buttery, golden crust that ties everything together. It’s a dessert that’s as comforting as it is impressive, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor.
Conclusion: A Dessert That’s Sweet, Tangy, and Stress-Free
Whether you’re hosting a party, treating yourself to something sweet, or need a last-minute dessert for a gathering, this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is sure to delight. Its bright lemon flavor, creamy texture, and buttery topping make it a standout dessert that’s as easy to love as it is to make. Plus, its versatility means you can customize it to suit any occasion or taste.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your twist on this tangy, cheesy dump cake might just inspire others to try it too! 🍋✨