Introduction
Dump cakes are a delightful American dessert tradition dating back to the 1960s. The name “dump cake” comes from the easy method of “dumping” ingredients into a baking dish without much mixing. They became especially popular because of their simplicity, affordability, and the invention of boxed cake mixes.
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a refreshing twist on the classic dump cake. It combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of cream cheese, creating a creamy, tangy, and sweet treat that’s perfect for spring gatherings, summer picnics, or just a cozy family dessert. The buttery, crumbly topping paired with the creamy filling makes it irresistible!
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 2 cans (21 oz each) lemon pie filling (or homemade lemon curd)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cake Layer:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (you can also use lemon cake mix for extra zing)
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup milk
Optional Toppings:
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and lump-free.
- Layer the Lemon Filling: Spread the lemon pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add Cream Cheese Mixture: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the lemon filling and gently swirl with a knife for a marbled effect.
- Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and lemon layers. Do not stir.
- Top with Butter & Milk: Pour melted butter evenly over the cake mix. Drizzle the milk on top to help the cake bake evenly and reduce dry spots.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool & Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or chilled.
Methods & Tips
- Classic Method: Simply dump pie filling, sprinkle cake mix, and drizzle butter. Quick and rustic!
- Creamier Method: Adding cream cheese and milk gives a cheesecake-like layer.
- Extra Flavor Boost: Add lemon zest, a splash of lemon juice, or white chocolate chips before baking.
- Lighter Version: Use low-fat cream cheese and a sugar-free cake mix.
History of Dump Cakes
- First appeared in community cookbooks in the mid-20th century.
- Became popular with the rise of boxed cake mixes in America.
- Traditionally made with canned fruit pie fillings (cherry, apple, peach).
- This lemon version is a modern twist for citrus lovers.
Benefits
- Quick & Easy – Minimal prep and ingredients.
- Versatile – Works with different fillings and flavors.
- Comfort Dessert – Warm, creamy, and indulgent.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Great for potlucks, family dinners, and holidays.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving, 12 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 30g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
(Values vary depending on ingredients used.)
Variations
- Blueberry Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake – Add fresh or canned blueberries.
- Strawberry Lemon Version – Replace one can of lemon filling with strawberry pie filling.
- Nutty Topping – Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking.
- Gluten-Free – Use a gluten-free cake mix.
Who Will Love It?
- Citrus lovers who enjoy tangy-sweet desserts.
- Busy bakers who want something impressive yet easy.
- Families who enjoy warm, comforting, shared desserts.
- Cheesecake fans craving a lighter, simpler version.
Conclusion
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the ultimate combination of sweet, tangy, creamy, and buttery goodness. With its rich history, endless variations, and easy preparation, it’s bound to become one of your go-to desserts. Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or chilled with whipped cream, it’s a guaranteed crowd favorite.
