Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Introduction

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake quickly became a family favorite, with everyone asking for seconds. The tangy lemon filling combined with the creamy cheese and buttery cake mix makes for a perfect blend of flavors. It’s incredibly simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients, yet it’s delicious enough to impress guests or satisfy a sweet tooth. After baking, the aroma of lemon fills the kitchen, creating a refreshing treat that’s great for gatherings or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea.

Ingredients

• 1 can (16 oz) lemon pie filling
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Filling: Spread the lemon pie filling evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
3. Add Cream Cheese: Add dollops of softened cream cheese over the pie filling for creamy pockets throughout the cake.
4. Cover with Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the cream cheese layer.
5. Drizzle Butter: Pour the melted butter over the entire surface, covering as much as possible for a golden crust.
6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 320 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

How to Serve

• Plain: Enjoy a slice warm from the oven.
• With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• With Ice Cream: Serve with vanilla or lemon ice cream for a refreshing contrast.
• With Berries: Top with fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a burst of color and flavor.
• With Lemon Zest: Sprinkle fresh lemon zest on top for an extra zing.

Additional Tips

1. Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Soften the cream cheese before adding it to help it blend into the cake better.
2. Butter Coverage: Pour melted butter evenly to ensure a uniformly golden crust.
3. Check for Bubbling Edges: The cake is done when the edges are bubbling and the top is golden.
4. Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool helps it set for easier slicing.
5. Dust with Powdered Sugar Last Minute: Add powdered sugar just before serving for the best appearance.

Recipe Variations

• Berry Twist: Replace lemon pie filling with blueberry or raspberry filling for a berry-flavored treat.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix for a gluten-free option.
• Extra Lemon Flavor: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest into the pie filling for more zestiness.
• Creamier Version: Mix the cream cheese with a couple of tablespoons of sugar before dolloping for a sweeter cream layer.
• Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of crushed nuts on top of the cake mix before adding butter for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
• Top with extra lemon zest for a bright garnish.
• Dress up with whipped cream and fresh raspberries for a festive dessert.
• Serve at room temperature for a picnic or outdoor gathering.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Warm it in the oven or microwave before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing: Allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To enjoy it warm, reheat individual servings in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or cover with foil and warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQ

1. Can I use homemade lemon filling?
   Yes, homemade lemon pie filling works just as well and can add a personal touch.
2. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   While you can, butter provides a richer flavor and better texture.
3. Can I make this cake dairy-free?
   Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
4. Can I use other cake mixes?
   Yes, lemon or white cake mix also works if you prefer a different flavor.
5. How do I soften cream cheese quickly?
   Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave it in 10-second intervals until soft.
6. Can I add fresh lemon juice?
   Yes, a teaspoon or two of lemon juice can enhance the lemon flavor without affecting the recipe.
7. Can I use a sugar-free cake mix?
   Yes, a sugar-free cake mix is a good alternative for those reducing sugar intake.
8. Why is my cake mix powdery on top?
   Make sure to drizzle the butter evenly, covering as much surface as possible.
9. How can I tell when it’s done?
   The edges should be bubbling, and the top should have a golden crust.
10. Do I need to grease the pan?
    Greasing the pan helps prevent sticking, so it’s highly recommended.

Conclusion

The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that brings together the zesty flavor of lemon with creamy cheese and a buttery cake topping. Perfect for busy days or when you need a quick crowd-pleaser, this cake can be adapted to suit a range of tastes. Whether served warm with ice cream or at room temperature with fresh berries, it’s a delicious option for any occasion. This recipe promises to become a go-to favorite for lemon lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike!

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