First, let me take a moment to say how truly thankful I am to have you here — your love for simple, comforting desserts keeps this kitchen humming with sweet inspiration! If you’re dreaming of something bright, zesty, and ridiculously easy, this 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is calling your name. Imagine the tang of sunny lemons, the creaminess of cheesecake, and a buttery crumbly topping — all in one fuss-free bake.
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Why You’ll Love This Dump Cake
When life calls for a dessert that’s practically effortless but still feels special, this is it! You’ll love it because it’s:
- Only 4 ingredients! No long shopping list, no fancy tools.
- Vibrant & refreshing: Sweet, zesty lemon flavor in every bite.
- Ultra moist & creamy: The tangy cream cheese melts right into the cake.
- Perfect for any occasion: Picnics, potlucks, or just because it’s Tuesday!
What Does It Taste Like?
Every spoonful is soft, buttery, and bursting with lemony brightness. The cake mix bakes into a golden, crumbly topping while the lemon pie filling and cream cheese combine to create a creamy, sweet, and slightly tart filling that tastes like sunshine on a plate. So simple, so satisfying.
Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
- No mixer, no bowls — just layer, bake, and enjoy!
- Perfect for beginner bakers.
- Feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
- Delicious warm or chilled — your choice!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 (16 oz.) can lemon pie filling
- 1 (15 oz.) box yellow cake mix
- 4 oz. cream cheese, cubed
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, thinly sliced
Tools You’ll Need
- Square baking dish (8×8 or 9×9)
- Butter knife for slicing butter & cream cheese
- Spatula for spreading filling
- Non-stick spray or extra butter for greasing
Easy Additions & Swaps
- Swap yellow cake mix for white or lemon cake mix for extra lemony goodness.
- Add fresh lemon zest over the pie filling for a brighter flavor.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut or chopped pecans on top before baking for extra texture.
- Try it with strawberry or blueberry pie filling for a fun twist!
How to Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
1️⃣ Prep the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2️⃣ Layer the Filling
Spread the lemon pie filling evenly in the bottom of your baking dish. Make sure it reaches into the corners.
3️⃣ Add Cake Mix & Cream Cheese
Sprinkle half of the dry cake mix over the filling. Evenly distribute the cubed cream cheese over the cake mix. Top with the remaining cake mix.
4️⃣ Add Butter
Thinly slice the butter and place the pieces evenly on top of the cake mix. Try to cover as much surface area as possible — this ensures a golden, crispy top!
5️⃣ Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. The filling should be bubbly around the edges.
6️⃣ Cool & Serve
Remove from oven and let cool for 15–20 minutes — the filling will set slightly as it rests. Scoop, serve, and enjoy every bite!
What to Serve With It
This cake is delicious on its own, but here are a few fun ideas:
- A dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Fresh berries sprinkled on top.
- A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use thin slices of butter so they melt evenly across the top — no dry spots!
- Don’t stir! Dump cakes work because the layers bake into each other magically.
- If you like it extra gooey, add an extra couple tablespoons of butter.
How to Store It
Cover leftovers tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop individual servings in the microwave for 20–30 seconds — so good warm!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Make it the night before and store covered in the fridge. Serve cold or gently reheat in the oven.
Can I freeze dump cake?
Absolutely — wrap cooled portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Do I have to use cream cheese?
No, but it adds a creamy, tangy surprise — totally worth it!
Final Sweet Words: Bake This Today!
This 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake proves that dessert doesn’t have to be complicated to be downright delightful. Bright, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious — it’s sunshine in a baking dish!
If you try it, I’d LOVE to see! Leave a review, pin it, or tag me on Pinterest — your bakes make my day!
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving, 1 of 9)
Calories: ~340 | Carbs: 42g | Fat: 17g | Protein: 3g
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