This 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the epitome of simplicity meets deliciousness. Combining the tangy taste of lemon with the rich texture of cream cheese, this cake is a delightfully refreshing dessert that requires minimal effort. Perfect for quick gatherings or a sudden dessert craving, this cake ensures a hassle-free baking experience with mouthwatering results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Effortless Preparation: With just four ingredients, the preparation process is straightforward and perfect for those with a busy schedule.
- Delightfully Creamy: The cream cheese enhances the texture, making it rich and velvety.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The lemon provides a bright, tangy contrast to the sweet, buttery crust.
Ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 can (21 ounces) lemon pie filling
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
Preheat the Oven: Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for baking.
Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter to prevent sticking and facilitate easy serving.
2. Make the Crumb Mixture:
Combine Cake Mix and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the yellow cake mix and melted butter until the mixture is crumbly, resembling coarse crumbs.
3. Layer the Crumb Mixture:
Form the Base Layer: Press half of the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to form a solid base.
4. Prepare the Lemon Cream Cheese Filling:
Mix Cream Cheese and Lemon Pie Filling: In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the lemon pie filling until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
5. Assemble the Cake:
Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the lemon cream cheese mixture over the prepared crumb base in the baking dish.
6. Add the Final Crumb Layer:
Top with Remaining Crumbs: Sprinkle the rest of the crumb mixture over the filling to create a sweet, crumbly topping.
7. Bake the Cake:
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly and set.
8. Cool and Serve:
Cool: Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan, which helps it set and makes it easier to slice.
Serve: Cut the cake into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. Optional garnishes include a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh berries for an extra touch of elegance.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips:
- Smooth Filling: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps in your filling.
- Crisp Topping: For a crisper topping, you can broil the cake for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a breeze to make and offers a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to please any crowd. Its simplicity and delicious taste make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
