Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Introduction

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the kind of dessert that proves you don’t need complicated steps or fancy techniques to create something absolutely irresistible. With bright lemon flavor, rich cream cheese pockets, and a buttery cake topping, this dessert delivers maximum payoff with minimal effort. True to its name, everything is simply “dumped” into a baking dish—no mixing bowls, no special equipment, and no stress.

What makes this dump cake stand out is the contrast in flavors and textures. The lemon filling bakes into a tangy, jammy layer on the bottom, while cubes of cream cheese melt into soft, cheesecake-like pockets throughout the cake. On top, dry cake mix and melted butter transform into a golden, crumbly crust that’s crisp in spots and tender underneath.

This dessert is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, holidays, and last-minute guests. It’s forgiving, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Served warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake tastes like something you’d order at a bakery—even though it takes just minutes to assemble.

If you love lemon desserts and easy recipes that never fail, this dump cake deserves a permanent place in your collection.

Ingredients

2 cans (21 oz each) lemon pie filling

8 oz cream cheese, cut into small cubes

1 box lemon cake mix

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Optional: zest of 1 lemon

Optional garnish: powdered sugar or whipped cream

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Add the Lemon Filling

Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle lemon zest over the filling if using.

Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese

Distribute the cream cheese cubes evenly over the lemon filling. Try to space them out so each serving gets creamy pockets.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix and Butter

Sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the entire surface. Drizzle melted butter evenly on top, covering as much of the cake mix as possible. Do not stir.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling. Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Variations

Lemon Blueberry Dump Cake: Add fresh or frozen blueberries over the lemon filling.

Vanilla Lemon Version: Use vanilla cake mix instead of lemon.

Extra Creamy Version: Increase cream cheese to 12 oz.

Coconut Lemon Dump Cake: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the cake mix.

Sugar-Free Option: Use sugar-free lemon pie filling and cake mix.

Cooking Notes

Do not mix the layers—dump cakes work by layering.

Cut cream cheese into small cubes for even distribution.

Butter coverage affects texture; drizzle slowly and evenly.

Bubbling edges indicate the cake is done.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake warm for the best texture. It pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries. This dessert works well for casual family dinners, church gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dessert tables.

Tips

Use a spoon to spread butter into dry spots if needed.

Let the cake rest before serving so layers can set.

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.

Reheat gently for best results.

Prep Time

5 minutes

Cooking Time

50 minutes

Total Time

55 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 360

Protein: 4g

Sodium: 420mg

FAQs

Why is it called a dump cake?
Because ingredients are layered directly into the pan with no mixing required.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, bake ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Can I use homemade lemon filling?
Yes, as long as it’s thick like pie filling.

Do leftovers need refrigeration?
Yes, due to the cream cheese layer.

Conclusion

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a bright, comforting dessert that combines tangy lemon flavor with rich, creamy cheesecake pockets and a buttery cake topping—all with almost no effort. Easy, reliable, and incredibly satisfying, this dessert is perfect for any occasion when you want big flavor without the work. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to this simple lemon favorite again and again.

Print