This Easy Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a delightful treat! It combines tangy lemon, creamy cheese, and a buttery crust that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Making this cake is as simple as it sounds—just dump the ingredients in and let the oven do the work. Perfect for when you need a quick dessert fix!
Whenever I serve this, I love to see the smiles it brings. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser, and you might just want seconds, or even thirds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Cake Mix: This is the base of the cake. If you don’t have yellow cake mix, you can use white or even lemon cake mix for an extra lemony punch.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives a nice creamy layer. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a non-dairy cream cheese substitute.
Lemon Curd: This adds the tangy flavor we love! If you can’t find lemon curd, lemon pie filling works well too. You could also make homemade lemon curd for a fresher taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, salted butter will work too—just skip any salt in the rest of the recipe.
How Do You Achieve a Perfectly Buttery Crust?
Creating a buttery crust is all about how you layer and bake the ingredients. Start by making sure your butter is melted, then drizzle it evenly over the dry cake mix. This helps to achieve that golden, crisp texture.
- Divide the cake mix into smaller clumps when sprinkling it over the filling. This will ensure a more even bake.
- Don’t skip the cool-down period after baking; allow it to rest so the layers set nicely.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; a few extra minutes can have a big impact on getting that nice, crisp crust!
Easy Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake With Buttery Crust
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (14 oz) can lemon curd or lemon pie filling
- Optional: 1/2 cup sour cream or whipped cream for added creaminess
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40 to 45 minutes to bake. After baking, let it cool completely to set the layers before serving. So, plan for around 1 hour for the whole process, plus extra cooling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer to beat everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. If you’re including sour cream or whipped cream for extra creaminess, gently fold it in until it’s well mixed.
3. Layer the Cake:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will be a nice, creamy base for your cake!
4. Add the Lemon Layer:
Now, carefully spoon the lemon curd or lemon pie filling over the cream cheese layer. Spread it out evenly with a spatula, so every bite will have that zesty flavor.
5. Sprinkle the Cake Mix:
Take the dry yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the lemon layer. Don’t stir; let the layers stay separate for the best texture!
6. Drizzle with Butter:
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cake mix. Try to distribute it as evenly as you can, so every part gets that buttery goodness.
7. Bake It Up:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it to be golden brown and a little crispy on top!
8. Cool Down:
Once it’s done baking, take it out and let it cool completely in the pan. This helps the layers set nicely together, making it easier to slice later.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooled, slice it into squares and serve it chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy the delicious combination of tangy lemon, creamy cheese, and buttery crust in every bite!
FAQ About Easy Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Cake Mix?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix works perfectly, you can substitute it with white or lemon cake mix for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that it may alter the overall taste slightly!
What If I Don’t Have Lemon Curd?
If lemon curd isn’t available, lemon pie filling makes a great alternative. You can also make your own lemon curd if you’re feeling adventurous—just ensure it’s thick enough to layer over the cream cheese mixture!
Can I Make This Dump Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this cake ahead of time! Bake it, let it cool, and then store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just cover it well to keep it fresh. You can serve it chilled or allow it to sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the cake before sealing with a lid to maintain moisture.
