Looking for a dessert that’s not only bursting with lemon flavor but also ridiculously easy to make? This 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is your new go-to! With just a few simple ingredients and no mixing required, this creamy, tangy, and sweet dessert will wow your family and friends in no time. It’s the perfect treat when you need something quick, yet absolutely delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Cake:
- Only 4 ingredients: No long shopping list – just the essentials!
- No mixing required: Just layer, bake, and enjoy the magic.
- Perfect balance of flavors: Tart lemon, rich cream cheese, and sweet cake mix come together beautifully.
- Versatile and quick: Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or last-minute dessert cravings.
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
👉 Optional: Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
- Lemon Pie Filling: Pour the lemon pie filling evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread it out with a spoon or spatula to cover the entire surface.
- Cream Cheese: Cut the softened cream cheese into small chunks and evenly distribute them over the lemon filling.
- Cake Mix: Sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly on top of the cream cheese. Do NOT mix – just leave it layered.
- Butter: Slowly pour the melted butter over the top, covering as much of the cake mix as possible. This helps the cake cook evenly.
3. Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
4. Cool & Serve:
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. You can serve it warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
This cake is absolutely delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to take it to the next level:
- With vanilla ice cream: The cold ice cream melts into the warm cake, making it irresistible.
- Drizzled with honey or lemon glaze: Enhance the zesty lemon flavor.
- Topped with fresh berries: Blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries make it even more refreshing.
- Whipped cream and powdered sugar: A simple touch that makes it look extra special!
Tips for the Best Dump Cake:
✅ Use room-temperature cream cheese: It melts evenly into the cake for a smooth texture.
✅ Don’t stir the layers: Keeping them separate creates the best texture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
✅ Spread the butter evenly: This helps the cake mix bake properly and prevents dry spots.
✅ Get creative with flavors: Swap the lemon cake mix for vanilla or white cake mix if you prefer a more neutral flavor.
Storage & Reheating:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cream cheese makes it best when kept chilled.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 30 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different flavor of cake mix? Yes! While lemon enhances the citrus flavor, vanilla or white cake mix works great for a milder taste.
- What if I don’t have lemon pie filling? Try canned pineapple or apple pie filling as a fruity alternative.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes, cook on LOW for 2.5-3 hours or until the top is golden and set.
- How do I make it less sweet? Use unsweetened lemon curd or reduce the amount of pie filling for a more tangy twist.
Final Thoughts:
This 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is proof that simplicity can still be absolutely amazing. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with citrus goodness. Whether for a last-minute dessert or a special gathering, this cake is sure to be a hit. 🍋🎉
