In the world of desserts, sometimes simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. Enter the 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake—a delightful treat that brings together minimal effort and maximum flavor. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a delicious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that combines the tartness of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese for a dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- Lemon Pie Filling: 1 can (21 oz)
- Cream Cheese: 1 package (8 oz), softened
- Cake Mix: 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix or lemon cake mix
- Butter: 1 stick (1/2 cup), melted
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer (optional, but recommended for cream cheese)
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray. This step will help prevent the cake from sticking to the pan.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Lemon Pie Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and lemon pie filling. Use an electric mixer to blend them together until smooth. If you don’t have a mixer, you can use a whisk and some elbow grease—just be prepared for a bit of a workout!
- Spread the Mixture: Pour the cream cheese and lemon pie filling mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Add the Cake Mix: Sprinkle the cake mix evenly over the lemon mixture. Do not mix or stir—just spread it out as evenly as possible.
- Drizzle with Butter: Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix. This will create a beautiful, golden-brown crust as it bakes.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. The cake is done when the top is golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the baking dish for at least 15 minutes before serving. This will give it time to set and make it easier to cut into squares. You can serve it warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips and Variations
- Fruit Variations: Feel free to swap out the lemon pie filling for another fruit filling like cherry, blueberry, or peach. This will give you a different flavor profile while keeping the same easy preparation.
- Cake Mix: While yellow cake mix is classic, using lemon cake mix can enhance the lemon flavor for a more pronounced citrusy taste.
- Add-ins: For added texture and flavor, consider sprinkling some nuts, like chopped pecans or walnuts, over the cake mix before drizzling with butter. You can also add a handful of coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
- Make it Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It also freezes well—just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Conclusion
The 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a testament to the idea that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a delectable treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, bringing a dessert to a potluck, or simply indulging in a sweet treat on a lazy afternoon, this dump cake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the blend of creamy lemon goodness and the crisp, buttery topping—it’s a dessert that’s both easy and extraordinary.
