Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake: An Easy and Delicious Dessert

The Easiest Cake You’ll Ever Make

The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a dessert that truly lives up to its name. It’s incredibly easy to make – you literally “dump” the ingredients into a pan and bake! This recipe features a bright, tangy lemon pie filling, creamy dollops of cream cheese, a layer of white chocolate chips, and a buttery, cakey topping, all baked together to golden perfection. It’s a perfect dessert for potlucks, parties, or a simple weeknight treat. The combination of lemon, cream cheese, and white chocolate creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that’s sure to impress.

A Recipe That’s Perfect for Last-Minute Desserts

I first made this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake when I needed a last-minute dessert for a family gathering. I was short on time and didn’t want to fuss with a complicated recipe. This dump cake was the perfect solution! It took just minutes to assemble, and the results were amazing. The cake was moist and flavorful, with a delightful tanginess from the lemon pie filling and cream cheese. Everyone loved it, and I was thrilled with how easy it was to make. Since then, this dump cake has become one of my go-to desserts for any occasion. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it requires minimal effort on my part. I love that I can whip it up in no time and have a delicious dessert ready to go.

Ingredient Insights: Choosing the Right Ingredients for Flavor and Convenience

This recipe relies on simple, readily available ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Lemon Pie Filling (1 can, 16 ounces): Provides the tangy, citrusy base for the cake.
  • Tip: Use a good-quality lemon pie filling for the best flavor.
• White Chocolate Chips (1 cup): Add a touch of sweetness and a creamy texture that complements the lemon filling.
• Cream Cheese (4 ounces, cubed): Creates pockets of creamy, tangy goodness throughout the cake.
  • Tip: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Lemon Cake Mix (1 box, 15.25 ounces): Forms the base of the cake topping, providing a convenient and flavorful shortcut.
  • Tip: You can also use a white or yellow cake mix, but the lemon cake mix enhances the overall lemon flavor.
• Unsalted Butter (½ cup, thinly sliced): Adds richness and creates a golden-brown, slightly crispy topping.
  • Tip: The recipe calls for thinly sliced butter, which helps it melt evenly over the cake mix.

Essential Equipment: Tools for Easy Dump Cake Assembly

• 12-inch Skillet or 9×9 or 9×13-inch Baking Dish: For baking the dump cake. The recipe author recommends a 12-inch skillet, but a 9×9 or 9×13-inch baking dish will also work.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Knife: For cubing the cream cheese and slicing the butter.
• Mixing Bowl: Might be needed depending on instructions followed.

The Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Ingredients with Measurements

• 1 (16 ounce) can lemon pie filling
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
• 1 (15.25 ounce) box lemon cake mix
• ½ cup unsalted butter, thinly sliced

Detailed Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Setting the Stage for Baking

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Choose Your Baking Dish: You can use a 12-inch skillet or a 9×9 or 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Grease (if necessary): If using a baking dish, grease it well. The recipe doesn’t specifically say to grease a skillet, as it’s likely assumed to be cast iron and well-seasoned. If you have concerns about sticking, you may grease your skillet.

2. Layer the Ingredients: The “Dump” Technique

1. Pour in Pie Filling: Pour the can of lemon pie filling into the prepared skillet or baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom.
2. Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the white chocolate chips evenly over the lemon pie filling.
3. Scatter Cream Cheese: Scatter the cubed cream cheese evenly over the white chocolate chips and pie filling.
4. Sprinkle Cake Mix: Carefully sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese, white chocolate chips, and pie filling, ensuring all the filling is covered.
5. Add Butter: Arrange the thinly sliced butter evenly over the top of the dry cake mix.
   • Tip: Distributing the butter evenly is crucial for creating a golden-brown and slightly crispy topping.

3. Bake to Perfection: Achieving a Golden-Brown and Bubbly Cake

1. Bake: Place the skillet or baking dish in the preheated oven.
2. Baking Time: Bake for 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
   • Check for Doneness: The cake mix topping should be cooked through and golden brown.

4. Cool and Serve: Enjoying Your Easy Creation

1. Cool Slightly: Remove the skillet or baking dish from the oven and let the dump cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
2. Serve Warm: Serve the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake warm.

Troubleshooting Common Problems: Tips for Success

• Cake Mix Not Moistened:
  • Problem: The cake mix topping is dry and powdery in spots.
  • Solutions: Make sure the butter is thinly sliced and evenly distributed over the cake mix.
• Filling Too Runny:
  • Problem: The filling is too runny.
  • Solutions: Make sure to use the correct ingredients.
• Uneven Baking:
  • Problem: The cake bakes unevenly.
  • Solution: Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Tips and Variations: Customize Your Dump Cake

• Different Pie Filling: Use other flavors of pie filling, such as cherry, blueberry, or apple.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix before adding the butter for a nutty crunch.
• Citrus Zest: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to the cake mix for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: Instead of cubing the cream cheese, soften it and swirl it into the pie filling before adding the cake mix.
• Whipped Cream Topping: Top the cooled cake with a layer of whipped cream for extra richness.
• Glaze: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the top of the cooled cake.

Serving Suggestions: A Versatile Dessert for Any Occasion

• Potlucks and Parties: This dump cake is easy to transport and is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Weeknight Dessert: A quick and easy dessert for a weeknight indulgence.
• Special Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration.
• Serve Warm: Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Pairing Recommendations: Drinks and Complements

• Drinks:
  • Coffee: A classic pairing for any cake.
  • Tea: A light and fragrant tea, such as Earl Grey or a lemon-flavored tea, complements the flavors.
  • Milk: A cold glass of milk is a great choice, especially for kids.
• Sides:
  • Ice Cream: Vanilla, lemon, or coconut ice cream would all be delicious.
  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds an extra touch of indulgence.
  • Fresh Fruit: A bowl of fresh berries provides a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information: A Sweet Treat in Moderation

Per serving (approximate, will vary based on size and specific ingredients): Calories: 350-400, Fat: 18-22g, Carbohydrates: 45-50g, Protein: 3-5g. (Note: This is an approximation and may vary based on the specific ingredients used).

Comprehensive FAQ: Your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Questions Answered

• Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
  • A: Yes, you can assemble the dump cake a few hours in advance and refrigerate it, unbaked. Add the butter slices just before baking. You can also bake it ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.
• Q: How do I store leftovers?
  • A: Store leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Q: Can I freeze this dump cake?
  • A: Yes, you can freeze the baked and cooled dump cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Q: Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?
  • A: Absolutely! Cherry, blueberry, apple, peach, or any other fruit pie filling would be delicious.
• Q: Can I use a different type of cake mix?
  • A: Yes, you can use a white cake mix or a yellow cake mix, but the lemon cake mix enhances the overall lemon flavor.
• Q: What if I don’t have white chocolate chips?
  • A: You can omit the white chocolate chips, or use a different type of chocolate chip, such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate.
• Q: Can I use light cream cheese?
• A: You can, but full fat is recommended.
• Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
• A: Yes, you can!
• Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
• A: You would need to use a gluten-free cake mix. Make sure your other ingredients are gluten free as well.
• Q: Can I make this vegan?
• A: You would need to use vegan substitutes for butter, cream cheese, and cake mix. There are many vegan alternatives available on the market. The results may vary in texture and flavor.
• Q: How do I prevent the cake mix from being dry?
• A: Make sure to evenly distribute the butter slices on top.

Introduction: The Easiest Cake You’ll Ever Make

The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a dessert that truly lives up to its name. It’s incredibly easy to make – you literally “dump” the ingredients into a pan and bake! This recipe features a bright, tangy lemon pie filling, creamy dollops of cream cheese, a layer of white chocolate chips, and a buttery, cakey topping, all baked together to golden perfection. It’s a perfect dessert for potlucks, parties, or a simple weeknight treat. The combination of lemon, cream cheese, and white chocolate creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that’s sure to impress.

Anecdotal Story: A Recipe That’s Perfect for Last-Minute Desserts

I first made this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake when I needed a last-minute dessert for a family gathering. I was short on time and didn’t want to fuss with a complicated recipe. This dump cake was the perfect solution! It took just minutes to assemble, and the results were amazing. The cake was moist and flavorful, with a delightful tanginess from the lemon pie filling and cream cheese. Everyone loved it, and I was thrilled with how easy it was to make. Since then, this dump cake has become one of my go-to desserts for any occasion. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it requires minimal effort on my part. I love that I can whip it up in no time and have a delicious dessert ready to go.

Ingredient Insights: Choosing the Right Ingredients for Flavor and Convenience

This recipe relies on simple, readily available ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Lemon Pie Filling (1 can, 16 ounces): Provides the tangy, citrusy base for the cake.
  • Tip: Use a good-quality lemon pie filling for the best flavor.
• White Chocolate Chips (1 cup): Add a touch of sweetness and a creamy texture that complements the lemon filling.
• Cream Cheese (4 ounces, cubed): Creates pockets of creamy, tangy goodness throughout the cake.
  • Tip: Use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Lemon Cake Mix (1 box, 15.25 ounces): Forms the base of the cake topping, providing a convenient and flavorful shortcut.
  • Tip: You can also use a white or yellow cake mix, but the lemon cake mix enhances the overall lemon flavor.
• Unsalted Butter (½ cup, thinly sliced): Adds richness and creates a golden-brown, slightly crispy topping.
  • Tip: The recipe calls for thinly sliced butter, which helps it melt evenly over the cake mix.

Essential Equipment: Tools for Easy Dump Cake Assembly

• 12-inch Skillet or 9×9 or 9×13-inch Baking Dish: For baking the dump cake. The recipe author recommends a 12-inch skillet, but a 9×9 or 9×13-inch baking dish will also work.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Knife: For cubing the cream cheese and slicing the butter.
• Mixing Bowl: Might be needed depending on instructions followed.

The Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Ingredients with Measurements

• 1 (16 ounce) can lemon pie filling
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
• 1 (15.25 ounce) box lemon cake mix
• ½ cup unsalted butter, thinly sliced

Detailed Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Setting the Stage for Baking

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Choose Your Baking Dish: You can use a 12-inch skillet or a 9×9 or 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Grease (if necessary): If using a baking dish, grease it well. The recipe doesn’t specifically say to grease a skillet, as it’s likely assumed to be cast iron and well-seasoned. If you have concerns about sticking, you may grease your skillet.

2. Layer the Ingredients: The “Dump” Technique

1. Pour in Pie Filling: Pour the can of lemon pie filling into the prepared skillet or baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom.
2. Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the white chocolate chips evenly over the lemon pie filling.
3. Scatter Cream Cheese: Scatter the cubed cream cheese evenly over the white chocolate chips and pie filling.
4. Sprinkle Cake Mix: Carefully sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese, white chocolate chips, and pie filling, ensuring all the filling is covered.
5. Add Butter: Arrange the thinly sliced butter evenly over the top of the dry cake mix.
   • Tip: Distributing the butter evenly is crucial for creating a golden-brown and slightly crispy topping.

3. Bake to Perfection: Achieving a Golden-Brown and Bubbly Cake

1. Bake: Place the skillet or baking dish in the preheated oven.
2. Baking Time: Bake for 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
   • Check for Doneness: The cake mix topping should be cooked through and golden brown.

4. Cool and Serve: Enjoying Your Easy Creation

1. Cool Slightly: Remove the skillet or baking dish from the oven and let the dump cake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
2. Serve Warm: Serve the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake warm.

Troubleshooting Common Problems: Tips for Success

• Cake Mix Not Moistened:
  • Problem: The cake mix topping is dry and powdery in spots.
  • Solutions: Make sure the butter is thinly sliced and evenly distributed over the cake mix.
• Filling Too Runny:
  • Problem: The filling is too runny.
  • Solutions: Make sure to use the correct ingredients.
• Uneven Baking:
  • Problem: The cake bakes unevenly.
  • Solution: Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Tips and Variations: Customize Your Dump Cake

• Different Pie Filling: Use other flavors of pie filling, such as cherry, blueberry, or apple.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cake mix before adding the butter for a nutty crunch.
• Citrus Zest: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to the cake mix for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: Instead of cubing the cream cheese, soften it and swirl it into the pie filling before adding the cake mix.
• Whipped Cream Topping: Top the cooled cake with a layer of whipped cream for extra richness.
• Glaze: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the top of the cooled cake.

Serving Suggestions: A Versatile Dessert for Any Occasion

• Potlucks and Parties: This dump cake is easy to transport and is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Weeknight Dessert: A quick and easy dessert for a weeknight indulgence.
• Special Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration.
• Serve Warm: Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Pairing Recommendations: Drinks and Complements

• Drinks:
  • Coffee: A classic pairing for any cake.
  • Tea: A light and fragrant tea, such as Earl Grey or a lemon-flavored tea, complements the flavors.
  • Milk: A cold glass of milk is a great choice, especially for kids.
• Sides:
  • Ice Cream: Vanilla, lemon, or coconut ice cream would all be delicious.
  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds an extra touch of indulgence.
  • Fresh Fruit: A bowl of fresh berries provides a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information: A Sweet Treat in Moderation

Per serving (approximate, will vary based on size and specific ingredients): Calories: 350-400, Fat: 18-22g, Carbohydrates: 45-50g, Protein: 3-5g. (Note: This is an approximation and may vary based on the specific ingredients used).

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Your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Questions Answered

• Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
  • A: Yes, you can assemble the dump cake a few hours in advance and refrigerate it, unbaked. Add the butter slices just before baking. You can also bake it ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.
• Q: How do I store leftovers?
  • A: Store leftover dump cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Q: Can I freeze this dump cake?
  • A: Yes, you can freeze the baked and cooled dump cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Q: Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?
  • A: Absolutely! Cherry, blueberry, apple, peach, or any other fruit pie filling would be delicious.
• Q: Can I use a different type of cake mix?
  • A: Yes, you can use a white cake mix or a yellow cake mix, but the lemon cake mix enhances the overall lemon flavor.
• Q: What if I don’t have white chocolate chips?
  • A: You can omit the white chocolate chips, or use a different type of chocolate chip, such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate.
• Q: Can I use light cream cheese?
• A: You can, but full fat is recommended.
• Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
• A: Yes, you can!
• Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
• A: You would need to use a gluten-free cake mix. Make sure your other ingredients are gluten free as well.
• Q: Can I make this vegan?
• A: You would need to use vegan substitutes for butter, cream cheese, and cake mix. There are many vegan alternatives available on the market. The results may vary in texture and flavor.
• Q: How do I prevent the cake mix from being dry?
• A: Make sure to evenly distribute the butter slices on top.