4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Effortless 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Whipping up a delectable lemon cream cheese dump cake requires minimal effort and maximum flavor.

This brilliantly simple dessert combines tangy citrus notes with rich, creamy textures.

Each ingredient seamlessly blends into a mouthwatering treat that surprises even seasoned bakers.

The magic happens when you pour everything effortlessly into a single baking dish.

Minimal prep means you can focus on enjoying the delightful aromas filling your kitchen.

Layers of bright lemon and smooth cream cheese create a decadent experience that feels both comforting and elegant.

You’ll fall in love with how quickly this dessert comes together, making it perfect for spontaneous sweet cravings.

Dive into this foolproof recipe and watch magic unfold with just four ingredients.

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Using Only 4 Ingredients

  • Achieve a mouthwatering dessert in under an hour, with most of the time spent hands-off while the cake bakes to golden perfection in the oven.
  • Serve this tangy-sweet dessert at potlucks, family gatherings, or as a spontaneous weekend indulgence that appeals to both kids and adults with its simple yet delightful flavor profile.
  • No mixing, no complicated techniques- just layer ingredients and let the oven work its magic, making this recipe ideal for novice bakers or anyone intimidated by complex dessert recipes.

4 Ingredients to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Cake Base and Topping:
  • Lemon Pie Filling: Sweet and tangy base that provides rich lemon flavor and moisture to the cake.
  • Lemon Cake Mix: Dry mix that creates a golden, tender cake layer with minimal effort.
  • Butter: Enhances richness and helps create a crispy, golden top with smooth texture.
Dairy Component:
  • Cream Cheese: Adds creamy, tangy element that melts into delightful pockets throughout the cake.
Baking Essentials:
  • Baking Dish: Rectangular 9×13-inch pan recommended for even baking and perfect serving size.
Notes for Ingredients:
  • Choose full-fat cream cheese for best melting consistency.
  • Use fresh, high-quality butter for optimal flavor.
  • Select a commercial lemon pie filling for consistent taste and texture.
  • Ensure cake mix is fresh and not expired for best results.

Instructions for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Warm up your oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create the Lemon Base

Pour the lemon pie filling across the bottom of the baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a tangy foundation for your cake.

Step 3: Add Creamy Cheese Clusters

Break or cut the softened cream cheese into small chunks. Scatter these pieces generously over the lemon filling. As the cake bakes, these cheese bits will melt and create a rich, velvety layer.

Step 4: Dust with Cake Mix

Sprinkle the entire package of dry lemon cake mix over the cream cheese layer. Don’t mix or stir- let the dry mix rest on top. During baking, it will transform into a crispy, golden crust.

Step 5: Drizzle with Butter

Cut cold butter into small pieces. Dot these butter fragments across the entire surface of the cake mix. The butter will melt and seep through, adding moisture and a luxurious flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown. Some surface cracks are totally normal and add a homemade charm.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the cake rest for 10-15 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature. This dessert tastes incredible either way!

Tips for Baking a Moist Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

  • Perfectly Soften Cream Cheese: Take cream cheese out of the refrigerator 30-45 minutes before baking to ensure smooth, easy cutting and even distribution across the cake.
  • Prevent Cake Sticking: Use parchment paper or generous butter greasing to guarantee easy removal and clean slices when serving the dump cake.
  • Create Golden Crispy Top: Avoid stirring ingredients and let the cake mix sit untouched to develop a beautiful, crunchy golden crust that adds delightful texture.
  • Customize Flavor Variations: Swap lemon pie filling with other fruit fillings like cherry or blueberry to create unique flavor combinations and personalize the dessert.
  • Check Doneness Accurately: Insert a toothpick near the center of the cake- if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, the cake is perfectly baked and ready to enjoy.

How to Store and Serve Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, keeping it fresh and preventing moisture loss.
  • Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months for longer preservation.
  • Warm slices at 300F for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out and maintain the cake's soft texture.
  • Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds on medium power, checking to avoid overheating and preserving the cake's delicate consistency.

What Pairs Nicely with Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

  • Cut through the cake's richness with a bright, refreshing lemon or lime sorbet that echoes the dessert's tangy profile.
  • Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the cake's lemony notes and cleanse the palate between bites.
  • Create a delicate lavender-infused whipped cream that adds a subtle floral touch and softens the dessert's bold flavors.
  • Top the cake with fresh raspberries or blueberries to introduce a vibrant, juicy contrast against the creamy, buttery cake texture.

New Twists on 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

  • Gluten-Free Citrus Dream: Replace regular lemon cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix, ensuring those with celiac disease can enjoy this dessert without worry.
  • Vegan Zesty Delight: Swap butter with coconut oil, use vegan cream cheese alternative, and select a plant-based lemon pie filling for a dairy-free version.
  • Low-Sugar Lemon Bliss: Opt for sugar-free lemon pie filling and a reduced-sugar cake mix to create a lighter dessert for diabetic or health-conscious individuals.
  • Tropical Fruit Fusion: Substitute lemon pie filling with passion fruit or mango filling, adding an exotic touch to the classic dump cake recipe while maintaining the same simple preparation method.
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4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe


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4.6 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 59 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Mouthwatering lemon cream cheese dump cake delivers a zesty dessert sensation with minimal effort. Simple ingredients combine for a quick, irresistible treat you’ll want to savor again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 box (432 g / 15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
  • 1 can (540 ml / 21 oz) lemon pie filling
  • 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese, cubed
  • ½ cup (1 stick / 115 g) unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Arrange the oven rack to the middle position and heat to 350F (175C). Thoroughly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent adherence.
  2. Create an even, smooth foundation by spreading the lemon pie filling across the entire bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Transform the softened cream cheese into petite, uniform cubes and gently disperse them atop the lemon filling, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
  4. Lavishly dust the entire surface with the dry lemon cake mix, maintaining an untouched, powdery layer without mixing or stirring the ingredients.
  5. Carefully segment the butter into delicate, thin portions and distribute them systematically across the cake mix, allowing for complete and consistent coverage.
  6. Transfer the assembled dish into the preheated oven and monitor for 40-45 minutes. Watch for a rich, golden-brown surface and a set texture, anticipating potential rustic cracks that signal optimal baking.
  7. Remove from the oven and permit a brief cooling period. The dessert offers delightful taste profiles when served warm or at ambient temperature, providing versatile enjoyment.

Notes

  • Experiment with different pie fillings like cherry or blueberry to create unique flavor variations.
  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easier spreading and better integration with other ingredients.
  • Opt for low-fat or gluten-free cake mix to make the dessert more diet-friendly and accommodate specific nutritional needs.
  • Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or fresh lemon zest on top for an extra burst of flavor and elegant presentation.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3540 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 260
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Daves Miller

Daves Miller

Contributing Chef & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • American Southern cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Instruction in culinary fundamentals and advanced techniques.
  • Development of recipes that highlight seasonal and local produce.​
  • Mastery of artisanal bread and pastry techniques, from laminated doughs to decorative sugar artistry.

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, Kentucky

  • Degree: Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Specialized in cooking techniques and culinary sciences, hands‑on externships, professional kitchen lab training, and career preparation for restaurants, entrepreneurship, and global culinary opportunities.

White Mountains Community College, Berlin, New Hampshire

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Arts degree
  • Focus: Specialized in comprehensive baking and pastry arts, including bread making, artisan breads, cake decorating and design, chocolates, confections, and decorative centerpieces; product development and baking theory; and career preparation for baker and pastry chef roles in many places.

Daves is the friendly face guiding you through flavorful, fuss-free recipes at Picture Perfect Meals. 

He studied culinary arts at Sullivan University and embraced Baking and Pastry Arts at White Mountains Community College. Daves specializes in comforting meals with vibrant flavors, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients.

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