4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

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4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake! This cake is incredibly easy to make and brings together the bright, tangy flavors of lemon with the rich creaminess of cream cheese. Perfect for any occasion, this dump cake is a dessert that’s sure to impress with minimal effort.

Introduction

Dump cakes are known for their simplicity and ease of preparation — you just “dump” the ingredients into a baking dish, mix lightly, and bake. The result is a deliciously moist and flavorful cake with a slightly crisp top and a creamy filling. This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a perfect balance of tart and sweet, with the freshness of lemon complementing the richness of the cream cheese.

Ingredients

  • 1 box lemon cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
  • 1 can lemon pie filling (21 oz)
  • 1 package cream cheese (8 oz), softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

  1. Dump the Lemon Pie Filling: Spread the lemon pie filling evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  2. Cream Cheese Dollops: Drop spoonfuls of softened cream cheese over the lemon pie filling. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to slightly swirl the cream cheese into the pie filling.
  3. Add the Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix over the pie filling and cream cheese. Do not stir!
  4. Drizzle with Butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. Try to cover as much of the surface as possible.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. The cake should be slightly firm to the touch.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

  1. Allow the cake to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Tips for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

  1. Room Temperature (Short Term):
    • If you plan to consume the dump cake within 1-2 days, you can store it at room temperature. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
  2. Refrigeration (Longer Storage):
    • For storage beyond 2 days, refrigerate the cake to maintain its freshness.
    • Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container before placing it in the refrigerator.
    • The cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 5-7 days. The cream cheese in the recipe makes refrigeration necessary to prevent spoilage.
  3. Freezing (For Extended Storage):
    • If you want to keep the cake for an extended period, freeze it.
    • Cut the cake into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe, airtight container or zip-top bag. This method prevents freezer burn and keeps the cake fresh.
    • Label the container with the date to track how long it has been frozen.
    • The cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator.

Tips for Reheating

  • Microwave: To enjoy the cake warm, microwave individual portions for 15-20 seconds on medium power until heated through.
  • Oven: For a slightly crispy top, reheat the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.

Methods for Enhancing the Cake

  • Add Zest: For an extra burst of lemon flavor, add the zest of one lemon to the cream cheese mixture before dolloping it on the filling.
  • Toppings: Consider adding a sprinkling of powdered sugar on top or a handful of fresh berries for a refreshing garnish.
  • Use Variations: Substitute with other cake mixes and fillings for new flavors (e.g., cherry pie filling and chocolate cake mix).

History of Dump Cakes

Dump cakes originated in the United States in the mid-20th century as a quick, easy, and budget-friendly dessert that could be made with pantry staples. The name “dump cake” comes from the method of “dumping” ingredients into a baking dish with minimal preparation. Over time, these cakes have become beloved for their versatility, ease, and delicious results.

Benefits

  • Quick and Easy: With just four ingredients and no special equipment needed, this cake is ideal for beginner bakers or those short on time.
  • Customizable: This recipe can be adapted with different cake mix flavors and pie fillings to suit various tastes.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or any event where you need a no-fuss dessert that everyone will love.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 290
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Sugars: 23g

Conclusion

This 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is an easy yet delightful dessert that brings together the tartness of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese. It’s perfect for any time you need a simple and delicious treat with minimal effort. With its vibrant flavor and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to recipe!

Would you like additional variations for this dump cake, or do you have another recipe in mind?

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