Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake – Creamy Citrus Comfort Dessert

If you’re looking for an easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake that delivers bright citrus flavor, creamy texture, and a buttery golden topping with almost no effort, this is the dessert for you. This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake combines tangy lemon pie filling, rich cream cheese, and a soft, crumbly cake mix topping into one irresistible baked dessert. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, spring celebrations, or weeknight sweet cravings, this homemade lemon dump cake recipe is a true comfort food classic. The contrast between the smooth cream cheese layer and the bubbly lemon filling creates a creamy, zesty, melt-in-your-mouth experience that lemon lovers can’t resist. Whether you’re new to baking or simply want a simple lemon dessert recipe that impresses every time, this one delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

Introduction

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a dump cake. It’s the kind of dessert that feels effortless but tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the ultimate example of that magic. With just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients and a straightforward “mix, dump, and bake” approach, you get a layered dessert that feels indulgent and special.

The creamy base melts into the tangy lemon filling as it bakes, creating soft, velvety layers beneath a golden cake topping. It’s bright, rich, sweet, and slightly tart all at once. Perfect for spring brunches, Easter gatherings, summer barbecues, holiday dessert tables, or even cozy winter nights when you need something cheerful, this recipe stands out because it balances simplicity with bold flavor.

If you love lemon desserts that are both creamy and comforting, this one is going to earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly easy to make – Just mix, layer, and bake. No complicated techniques required.
• Creamy and tangy flavor balance – The lemon pie filling and cream cheese complement each other beautifully.
• Perfect texture contrast – Silky bottom layers with a golden, slightly crisp topping.
• Great for gatherings – Makes 12 servings, ideal for sharing.
• Beginner-friendly – Clear steps and forgiving structure make it approachable.
• Minimal cleanup – Everything comes together in one baking dish.

Ingredients Breakdown (Serves 12)

Main Ingredients

• 16 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
  Provides the rich, creamy base layer that balances the tangy lemon filling.
• 10 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing the baking dish
  Adds moisture and richness to the cream cheese layer and helps create the crumbly topping.
• 1 (13.25 to 15.25-ounce) box yellow, butter, or lemon cake mix
  Forms the golden, buttery topping without additional mixing.
• 1 (21-ounce) can lemon pie filling, divided
  Delivers the bright citrus flavor and jammy texture that defines this dessert.
• 1 large egg
  Helps bind the cream cheese mixture for structure.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  Sweetens the cream cheese layer smoothly.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
  Adds a cool, creamy contrast when serving warm.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls (medium)
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven
• Cooling rack
• Butter knife or offset spatula for spreading

Optional but helpful:

• Microplane (if adding lemon zest per notes)
• Parchment paper for easier cleanup

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Cream Cheese Layer

In a medium bowl, beat together:

• 16 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 10 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Beat until smooth and creamy with no visible lumps.

3. Add the Egg

Add 1 large egg and mix until fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick, smooth, and slightly fluffy.

4. Spread the Cream Cheese Base

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the surface into an even layer.

5. Add Lemon Pie Filling

Spoon the lemon pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer. Spread gently to cover the entire surface.

6. Add Cake Mix Topping

Sprinkle the entire box of cake mix evenly over the lemon pie filling. Do not stir. This dry layer will form a crumbly topping as it bakes.

7. Add Remaining Butter

Pour the remaining 1 tablespoon of melted butter evenly over the cake mix.

8. Bake

Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly around the edges.

9. Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Tips & Variations

While keeping the original recipe intact, here are ways to customize:

• Vegetarian Option: This recipe is already vegetarian.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix in the same quantity.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter alternatives in equal amounts.
• Spice Adjustment: Add lemon zest (as noted) for brighter citrus intensity.
• Cake Mix Choice: Yellow, butter, or lemon cake mix each bring a slightly different flavor profile.
• Reduced-Fat Option: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar-free cake mix as suggested in the notes.

Flavor Profile

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake delivers a beautiful balance of sweet and tart. The lemon pie filling is bright, tangy, and slightly jammy. Beneath it, the cream cheese layer becomes soft, velvety, and rich, mellowing the citrus notes.

The topping bakes into a golden crust that’s lightly crisp on the edges but tender underneath. As it cools slightly, the layers settle into a luscious, creamy base with pockets of citrus brightness. The aroma is buttery with a hint of fresh lemon, and every bite offers contrast—smooth, crumbly, creamy, and bright all at once.

Nutritional Overview (Estimated Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 1g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian. Contains dairy and gluten unless modified.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep Ahead: The cream cheese mixture can be mixed a few hours in advance and refrigerated.
• Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
• Freshness: Best enjoyed within 2–3 days for optimal texture.

FAQs

Can I use lemon cake mix instead of yellow?
Yes, lemon cake mix will enhance the citrus flavor.

Why shouldn’t I stir the cake mix?
Not stirring allows the dry mix to form a crumbly topping during baking.

Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Can I add lemon zest?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest can be added to the cream cheese mixture.

How do I know it’s done?
The top should be golden brown and bubbling at the edges.

Cooking Timeline

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
15 minutes	50 minutes	1 hour 5 minutes	12

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake warm in generous squares. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. For a beautiful presentation, dust lightly with powdered sugar or garnish with a small twist of lemon zest.

For gatherings, bake in a decorative ceramic dish and serve directly from the pan for a rustic, comforting feel.

Recipe Variations

1. Extra Lemon Version – Use lemon cake mix for intensified citrus flavor.
2. Golden Butter Style – Choose butter cake mix for richer notes.
3. Lighter Option – Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar-free cake mix.
4. Zesty Boost – Add fresh lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cream Cheese

Choose full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture. It should be softened to room temperature for smooth mixing. Store tightly wrapped in the refrigerator and use before the expiration date for best flavor.

Lemon Pie Filling

Look for a high-quality lemon pie filling with vibrant color and balanced sweetness. Store unopened cans in a cool pantry; refrigerate leftovers after opening.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps.
• Spread layers evenly for consistent baking.
• Don’t skip greasing the pan thoroughly.
• Allow slight cooling before slicing for cleaner servings.
• Watch the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigerator:
Store covered for up to 4 days.

Freezer:
Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Microwave individual portions or warm in a 300°F oven until heated through.

Do Not Freeze:
If topped with whipped cream, freeze without topping and add fresh before serving.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420
Protein	5g
Carbs	55g
Fat	22g
Fiber	1g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly. Contains dairy and gluten unless substitutions are made.

Expanded Conclusion

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake proves that impressive desserts don’t have to be complicated. With its creamy base, bright citrus filling, and golden crumbly topping, it’s the kind of recipe that brings people back for seconds. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a potluck, or simply because you’re craving something sweet and tangy, this dessert delivers every single time.

Save this recipe, share it with fellow lemon lovers, and come back to it whenever you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing treat. Once you make it, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen too.

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