Are you craving a quick and easy dessert that combines the tangy freshness of lemon with the creamy richness of cheesecake? This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the ultimate no-fuss treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With a buttery crumbly base, a luscious lemon filling, and a decadent cream cheese layer, this dessert is sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Easy to Make – Just a few simple steps and minimal prep time. ✔ Perfect Balance of Flavors – The sweet and tangy lemon filling pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer. ✔ Crowd-Pleasing Dessert – A guaranteed hit at potlucks, holidays, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix (or lemon cake mix for extra lemon flavor)
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1.5 to 2 cans (21 oz) lemon pie filling
• 12 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Bottom Cake Layer:

• In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with melted butter and mix until crumbly.
• Spread half of the cake mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing it down lightly to form a base.

3. Add the Lemon Filling:

• Evenly spread 1.5 to 2 cans of lemon pie filling over the cake mix base to ensure every bite bursts with citrusy goodness.

4. Make the Cheese Layer:

• In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.
• Spoon or spread this mixture over the lemon pie filling, ensuring even coverage.

5. Top with Remaining Cake Mix:

• Sprinkle the remaining cake mix mixture over the cream cheese layer. It doesn’t need to cover completely—this creates a delicious crumble topping.

6. Bake:

• Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cream cheese layer is set.

7. Cool and Serve:

• Allow the cake to cool for at least 45 minutes before slicing to help the layers firm up.
• Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect dessert experience!

Tips for the Best Dump Cake

• Use lemon cake mix for an even more intense citrus flavor.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
• Chill before serving for a firmer texture and enhanced flavor.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

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