4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
This delightful 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or simply a sweet treat after dinner. With its bright lemon flavor combined with creamy cream cheese and a buttery cake topping, this recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. You’ll love how quickly you can whip up this irresistible dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just four simple ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of tangy lemon and creamy cheese creates an unforgettable taste.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive celebrations.
- Minimal Cleanup: The dump method means less hassle and fewer dishes to wash.
- No Baking Skills Required: Anyone can make this cake; it’s foolproof!
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making this delicious cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for even baking and serving the cake easily.
- Electric mixer: While not required, it makes beating the cream cheese quick and easy, ensuring a smooth mixture.
Ingredients
For this easy 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, you will need:
For the Cake Base
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
For the Creamy Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
For Topping
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
How to Make 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
Spread the lemon pie filling evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
Step 3: Cream the Cheese
In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese over the pie filling.
Step 4: Add Cake Mix
Evenly sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix over the cream cheese layer. Do not mix!
Step 5: Pour Butter Over Top
Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. Optional: top with whipped cream or powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
With these steps completed, you’ll have a luscious 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake ready to enjoy!
How to Serve 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Serving your 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake can elevate its delightful flavors even further. This easy dessert is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its tangy lemon profile.
Whipped Cream
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that complements the creamy richness of the cake.
Fresh Berries
- A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides a burst of freshness and a pop of color on your plate.
Ice Cream
- Vanilla or lemon sorbet can bring a refreshing contrast to the warm cake, making each bite truly indulgent.
Powdered Sugar Dusting
- A simple sprinkle of powdered sugar adds elegance and sweetness without overpowering the cake’s flavors.
Lemon Zest Garnish
- Adding fresh lemon zest on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also intensifies the lemon flavor in each serving.
How to Perfect 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
To achieve the ultimate version of your 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, consider these helpful tips for the best results.
- Use room temperature cream cheese: This ensures easy mixing and smooth texture, preventing lumps in your cake.
- Don’t skip greasing the pan: Proper greasing prevents sticking, allowing for easy removal after baking.
- Check for doneness: Baking times may vary; look for a golden top and bubbling edges to know when it’s ready.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding fresh fruit or different flavored ice creams to customize each serving to your taste.
- Serve warm: Enjoying the cake while it’s still warm enhances its creamy texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Pairing side dishes with your 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dump cake.
- Lemonade: A glass of chilled lemonade enhances the citrus notes in this dessert while providing a thirst-quenching balance.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can complement the sweet and tart flavors beautifully.
- Shortbread Cookies: These buttery cookies add a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with the soft dump cake.
- Pecan Pie Bites: The nutty flavor from pecans brings depth and complements the lemony sweetness perfectly.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The sweetness of chocolate balances out tanginess, creating an indulgent treat alongside your cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake can be a breeze, but there are a few common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for optimal results.
- Not softening cream cheese: Using cold cream cheese can create lumps in your cake. Be sure to soften it beforehand for a smooth texture.
- Mixing the layers: It’s tempting to mix all ingredients together, but keep the layers separate! This ensures that each flavor shines through.
- Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the cake too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool slightly before serving for better structure.
- Using a different pan size: The recipe is designed for a 9×13-inch baking dish. Using a smaller or larger pan may affect cooking times and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Containers: Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Freezing 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Reheating 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-45 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake.
Can I use other flavors of pie filling?
Yes, you can substitute with other flavors like cherry, blueberry, or peach for a different taste!
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The cake is done when the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. A toothpick should come out clean from the center.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
What should I serve with my dump cake?
A scoop of ice cream or whipped cream makes an excellent topping for added indulgence!
Final Thoughts
The 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is not only easy to prepare but also offers delightful flavors that everyone will enjoy. It’s perfect for gatherings or satisfying your sweet tooth any day. Feel free to customize with your favorite fruits or toppings for even more delicious variations!
4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the simple delight of a 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, a dessert that perfectly balances tangy lemon flavor with creamy richness. This fuss-free recipe requires minimal preparation and offers maximum satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings. With its luscious layers and buttery topping, this cake is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether served warm with whipped cream or chilled with fresh berries, this delightful dessert is a must-try!
Ingredients
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and drop spoonfuls over the pie filling.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix over the cream cheese layer without mixing.
- Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12 of recipe (approximately 105g)
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
