Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Fresh lemon slices or zest
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the pie filling.
- Sprinkle the lemon cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese layer.
Step 3: Add the Butter
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dry cake mix, ensuring as much of the surface as possible is covered.
- For extra tang, drizzle lemon juice over the top as well.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Let the cake cool for at least 10 minutes to allow the layers to set.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or fresh lemon zest for an extra touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: A true dump-and-bake recipe with minimal effort.
- Bright and Tangy: The lemon flavor is refreshing and perfectly balanced by the creamy cheese.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties, potlucks, or family dinners.
Pro Tips
- Extra Lemon Flavor: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a punch of citrus.
- Even Butter Spread: Use a spoon or pastry brush to distribute the melted butter more evenly.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a tangy, creamy, and buttery delight that will brighten any dessert table. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, it’s a must-try for lemon lovers!