Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re anything like me and adore desserts that are both effortless and incredibly flavorful, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake. Imagine a luscious lemon-infused cream cheese base, sweet and tangy all at once, topped with a golden, buttery cake crust that’s both crumbly and soft. This dessert is a beautiful harmony of bright citrus notes and rich creaminess, designed for those moments when you want to impress without complicated steps. It’s a true showstopper that comes together in just one dish, making it ideal for gatherings, cozy nights in, or when you simply need a little sunshine on your plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a breeze, and every item plays a starring role in building its bright, creamy, and buttery character. These simple kitchen staples come together to create something extraordinary, from the tang of fresh lemon juice to the silky smooth cream cheese and the irresistible golden cake topping.

• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds rich sweetness and a creamy texture to the cake base.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brings a refreshing zing and brightens the entire flavor profile.
• Lemon zest: Provides an aromatic boost and a pop of natural lemon essence.
• Cream cheese: Softened and smooth, it gives the cake a luxuriously creamy foundation.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, balancing the citrus notes beautifully.
• Yellow cake mix: The star topping that crisps up with a lovely buttery crust.
• Unsalted butter: Melted and drizzled to ensure the cake topping bakes perfectly tender and golden.
• Optional chopped pecans or walnuts: Adds a delightful crunch if you want some texture contrast.

How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish to make sure your cake doesn’t stick. This little prep step ensures a smooth release and makes cleaning up much easier—always a win in my book!

Step 2: Whisk Together the Lemon Cream Cheese Base

In a medium bowl, whisk the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, softened cream cheese, and vanilla extract until completely smooth and creamy. This mixture is where all the magic of tangy and creamy happens, so take your time to get that luscious, silky texture just right.

Step 3: Pour the Base Into the Baking Dish

Pour your well-blended lemon cream cheese mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This layer is the star underneath that golden cake topping, so smoothing it out helps bake the layers evenly.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix Topping

Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the lemon base. Resist the urge to stir because it needs to bake into that perfectly crumbly, slightly crunchy topping. Drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the cake mix to help it bake into a rich and golden finish. If you’re feeling fancy and want an extra texture, sprinkle half a cup of chopped pecans or walnuts on top. It adds a lovely nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the citrus and cream cheese below.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is beautifully golden and bubbling. The edges should feel set, but if the center jiggles a bit, that’s perfectly fine—it will firm up as it cools. This step is all about watching the transformation as those layers meld together into a dreamy dessert.

Step 6: Cool and Get Ready to Serve

Let your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake cool for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This pause helps the cake set and flavors to meld. For an extra special touch, dust it with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh lemon slices before serving—it really elevates the presentation without any extra fuss.

How to Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add that delicate touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Fresh lemon slices or even a few sprigs of mint bring a burst of color and freshness that highlight the lemon flavor wonderfully. You might even drizzle a little lemon glaze for that glossy, irresistible finish.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream, which complements its tangy and creamy layers perfectly. For a heartier dessert experience, serve alongside fresh berries or a warm cup of Chamomile tea to balance its bright citrus notes gently.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in pretty glass jars layered with fresh berries and whipped cream for an elegant and portable dessert option. Alternatively, top slices with candied lemon peel or edible flowers to impress guests with minimal effort. The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake’s versatility lets you play around and create something uniquely yours every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 4 days and tastes just as delightful when enjoyed cold or at room temperature, allowing you to savor its creamy lemon goodness at your own pace.

Freezing

This cake freezes well, too! Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the fridge and let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

If you prefer your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds or pop them in a preheated 325°F oven for 10 minutes. Be careful not to overheat so the creamy lemon layer stays luscious and soft.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of cake mix for the topping?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is traditional and adds that perfect buttery flavor, you can experiment with white or lemon cake mix for a slightly different taste. Just remember the lemon cream cheese base is the flavor anchor, so choose something that complements it well.

Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese before mixing?

Yes, softening the cream cheese makes a big difference. It blends smoothly with the other ingredients to create a creamy base without lumps, ensuring the texture of your dump cake is silky and delightful.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

You sure can! Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix, and double-check that your other ingredients like vanilla extract and nuts are gluten-free certified. This way, everyone can enjoy the bright, creamy goodness of the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake.

How tart is this cake?

This cake strikes a beautiful balance between sweet and tart. The lemon juice and zest provide a bright citrus zing, but the sweetened condensed milk and cake topping mellow it out, creating a harmonious flavor that’s never too sour.

Can I add fresh berries to the cake?

Fresh berries are a fantastic addition either baked in or served on the side. If you want them inside, scatter them gently on the lemon cream cheese layer before topping with cake mix. They add bursts of juicy sweetness and complement the citrus notes perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Making this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is like giving yourself a warm, sunny hug wrapped in the most delightful dessert. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to serve at any celebration. If you’re craving a treat that’s bursting with fresh lemon flavor and irresistible creaminess, this recipe is your new best friend. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this dreamy cake part of your dessert rotation—you’ll be so glad you did!

Print