Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake: A Zesty Delight

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tangy, look no further than the delightful Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake. This easy-to-make treat combines the luscious flavors of lemon and cream cheese with the pleasing texture of cake, creating a dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends.

What is a Dump Cake?

A dump cake is a type of dessert that lives up to its name; you simply "dump" the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. This method not only simplifies the baking process, but it also allows for a multitude of flavor combinations. The Lemon Cream Cheese variant adds a refreshing zing that brightens any occasion.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this zesty delight:

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
  • 1 package (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 1 cup water (or lemon-lime soda for extra flavor)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
  • Fresh lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake:

  1. Preheat your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. Add the lemon juice and mix until incorporated.

  3. Assemble the Cake: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom.

  4. Add the Cake Mix: Sprinkle the lemon cake mix evenly on top of the cream cheese layer. Do not stir; this will create a delicious layer of cake on top of the cream cheese.

  5. Pour the Liquid: Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, then pour the water (or lemon-lime soda) evenly over everything. Again, do not stir.

  6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and add lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Tips for the Perfect Dump Cake

  • Lemon Zest: For an extra punch of lemon flavor, consider adding some lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for that extra zing.
  • Serving Suggestions: This cake is delicious when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the cream cheese layer a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready!

Conclusion

The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Its bright flavors and simple preparation make it perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual weeknight dinners. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking! You’ll be greeted with smiles and requests for seconds.

Happy baking! 🍋🎂