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Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 12 reviews

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a simple, vibrant dessert featuring a tangy lemon and cream cheese base topped with a buttery yellow cake mix crust. This easy-to-make dump cake combines the rich creaminess of cream cheese with fresh lemon juice and zest, all baked to golden perfection with a crunchy cake topping, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Base:

  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping:

  • 1 box yellow cake mix (store-bought, about 15–18 oz)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and prepare for layering.
  2. Make the Lemon Layer: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, softened cream cheese, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Pour this lemon cream cheese mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Add the Cake Mix Topping: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the lemon layer in the baking dish without stirring, as this will form a unique topping once baked. Drizzle the melted unsalted butter evenly over the cake mix. If needed, gently spread the butter with a spoon or spatula, being careful not to overmix and disturb the layers. Optionally, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added texture and flavor.
  4. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and bubbly. The edges should be set firmly while the center might still jiggle slightly, indicating a perfectly moist interior.
  5. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool for at least 20–30 minutes to let the layers set before serving. For a finishing touch, dust with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh lemon slices to enhance presentation and add freshness.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother lemon layer.
  • Do not stir the cake mix into the lemon mixture; this maintains the distinct layers and creates the signature dump cake texture.
  • For a nut-free version, omit the chopped pecans or walnuts.
  • Letting the cake cool sufficiently allows it to set properly and makes slicing easier.
  • You can add a dusting of powdered sugar or whipped cream when serving for added sweetness and presentation.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon cream cheese dump cake, easy lemon dessert, dump cake recipe, lemon cake, simple lemon dessert, yellow cake mix dessert, creamy lemon cake

Find it online: https://thehungrymason.com/lemon-cream-cheese-dump-cake-recipe/