Dump cakes are magical by nature—they’re simple, but the flavor is nothing short of spectacular. The 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is no exception. This recipe combines the tang of lemon pie filling, the buttery richness of yellow cake mix, and the creaminess of cream cheese to create a dessert that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious.
Ingredients
1 (16 oz.) can lemon pie filling: The tangy base that adds a burst of lemon flavor.
1 (15 oz.) package yellow cake mix: Provides the sweet, buttery layer that complements the lemon filling.
4 oz. cream cheese, cubed: Adds a rich, creamy texture to the cake.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, thinly sliced: Melts into the cake mix, creating a golden, crispy top.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease the Dish: Lightly butter a square baking dish or coat it with non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and makes serving and cleaning easier.
Step 3: Add the Lemon Pie Filling
Spread the Lemon Pie Filling: Evenly spread the lemon pie filling in the greased baking dish. This will be the zesty base of your cake.
Step 4: Layer the Cake Mix and Cream Cheese
First Layer of Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle half of the yellow cake mix over the lemon pie filling.
Add the Cream Cheese: Distribute the cubed cream cheese over the cake mix layer to create creamy pockets throughout the cake.
Step 5: Add the Remaining Cake Mix
Top with Cake Mix: Sprinkle the remaining half of the cake mix over the cream cheese cubes. This forms the top layer that will turn golden and crispy when baked.
Step 6: Add the Butter
Place Butter Pats: Arrange the thinly sliced butter evenly over the top layer of cake mix. The butter will melt, binding the layers and adding richness.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The cake is ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the baking dish for 15-20 minutes. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Serve: The cake can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Variations and Substitutions
Flavor Variations:
Berry Delight: Substitute the lemon pie filling with blueberry or cherry pie filling for a different fruity flavor.
Chocolate Lovers: Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a decadent chocolate-lemon combination.
Dietary Adjustments:
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to cater to those with gluten sensitivities.
Low-Sugar: Opt for a sugar-free pie filling and cake mix to reduce the overall sugar content.
Additional Ingredients:
Nuts: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the final layer of cake mix before adding the butter for a crunchy texture.
Coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the lemon pie filling for an extra tropical twist.
Why This Recipe is Appealing
The 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is appealing because it combines simplicity with bold flavors:
Simplicity: With just four ingredients and minimal prep time, this cake is perfect for beginners and busy bakers alike.
Flavor: The tangy lemon, creamy cheese, and buttery cake create a flavor profile that delights the taste buds.
Versatility: This recipe is a great base for experimentation—try different flavors, add-ins, or adjust for dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s easy to make, easy to transport, and always a hit at gatherings.
Whether you’re preparing for a family potluck, a casual get-together, or simply craving something sweet, this 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is sure to satisfy.
This simple yet delightful cake recipe offers the perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and creamy, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Enjoy baking and sharing this easy-to-make dessert!
