Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal steps, this cake is quick and easy to prepare.
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Tangy and Creamy Flavor: The combination of lemon and cream cheese offers a refreshing and rich taste that is sure to please.
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Versatile Dessert: Ideal for various occasions, from family dinners to casual get-togethers.
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Minimal Cleanup: The “dump” method means less mess and fewer dishes to wash.
Ingredients
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1 box yellow cake mix
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1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
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1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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Assemble the Cake:
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the lemon filling, spreading gently to cover as much as possible.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top, followed by the melted butter.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Baking Time: 45-50 minutes
Variations
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Fruit Filling: Substitute the lemon pie filling with other fruit fillings like cherry, blueberry, or peach for a different flavor profile.
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Nuts: Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts on top before baking for added texture and flavor.
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Spices: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake mix for a warm, spiced note.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can use white or butter cake mix as alternatives to yellow cake mix.
2. Is it necessary to use a 9×13-inch baking dish?
While a 9×13-inch dish is recommended, you can use a similar-sized baking dish. Adjust the baking time as needed.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat before serving.
4. Can I use homemade lemon curd instead of pie filling?
Yes, homemade lemon curd can be used as a substitute for lemon pie filling.
5. Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked assembled cake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
6. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be substituted for butter in this recipe.
7. Can I add fresh fruit to the cake?
Yes, you can add fresh berries or sliced fruits on top before baking for added flavor and texture.
8. Is this cake gluten-free?
This recipe contains gluten due to the cake mix. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix.
9. Can I use a different type of fruit filling?
Yes, you can substitute lemon pie filling with other fruit fillings like cherry, blueberry, or peach.
10. How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Conclusion
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a simple yet delightful dessert that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all topped with a buttery cake mix crust. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a sweet treat at home, this cake is sure to impress.

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert, Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a deliciously simple dessert that combines tangy lemon pie filling with creamy cream cheese and a buttery cake mix topping. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, this easy cake is perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat at home.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Cake:
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the lemon filling and spread gently to cover as much as possible.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the top, followed by the melted butter.
4. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Fruit Filling Variations: You can swap the lemon pie filling for other fruit fillings like cherry, blueberry, or peach for different flavor options.
- Nuts: Top with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before baking for extra crunch.
- Spices: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix for a warm, spiced flavor.