Quick Description

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a tangy, sweet, and indulgent treat with minimal effort. With a rich cream cheese layer and a burst of fresh lemon flavor, this dessert comes together quickly and bakes into a bubbly, golden cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Simply dump the ingredients together and let the oven work its magic—perfect for busy days when you crave something delicious with little fuss.

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 12 slices
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
  • Total Time: ~1 hour

Ingredients

  • 1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
  • 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 ½ cups water (or as directed on cake mix box)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cream Cheese Layer

  1. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sugar.
  2. Use an electric mixer or whisk to blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
  3. Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Add the Cake Mix

  1. Sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer — do not mix, just spread it out.
  2. Pour the melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
  3. If the box calls for water, add it now, pouring it evenly over the buttered cake mix. You won’t stir this either.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
  2. The cake will look slightly uneven or “rustic” — that’s normal! It’s part of the charm.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes before serving, or serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Serving Suggestions

  • For Extra Zest: Add a few drops of lemon juice to the cream cheese layer for an extra tangy bite.
  • Toppings: Fresh fruit like raspberries or strawberries complements the lemon flavor beautifully.
  • Make it a Sundae: Serve with ice cream and a drizzle of lemon glaze.

Tips for Success

  • Butter Tip: Make sure to use melted butter to help the cake mix crisp up on top.
  • No Stirring Required: The “dump” part is key to this cake’s unique texture. Let the ingredients bake as they are.
  • Flavor Variations: Try substituting with orange cake mix for a citrus twist or use lime zest for a tangier version.

Would you like me to expand this into a full 3000+ word blog-style version with:

  • Cake mix variations and scratch recipe alternatives
  • Tips for pairing and serving
  • Freezing & make-ahead tips
  • Full story about the origins of “dump cakes”

Let me know if you’d like the extended version to be made!