Best of all, it requires only four ingredients and minimal prep, making it a stress-free option for busy bakers. No fancy tools or baking expertise is required — just a little assembly, and you’re on your way to a golden, buttery treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, Zesty Flavor: The lemon pie filling gives a refreshing tang that balances perfectly with the creamy richness of the cheese.
• Quick & Easy: True to its name, this dump cake requires minimal effort — just layer, sprinkle, and bake.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for potlucks, holidays, or a spontaneous sweet treat for the family.
• Foolproof Results: Even novice bakers will achieve a golden, soft cake with delightful cream cheese pockets every time.

Ingredients & Their Roles

• 1 (16 oz.) can lemon pie filling: Provides the tangy, moist base that keeps the cake bursting with flavor.
• 1 (15 oz.) box yellow cake mix: Gives structure and a tender crumb while complementing the lemon filling with sweetness.
• 4 oz. cream cheese, cubed: Creates pockets of creamy richness that melt slightly during baking, adding a luscious texture contrast.
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, thinly sliced: Melts over the top to form a golden, buttery crust that seals in flavor and moisture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch or similar square baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Layer the Lemon Filling: Spread the entire can of lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the baking dish, reaching all corners for consistent flavor.
3. Add Cake Mix: Sprinkle half of the yellow cake mix over the lemon layer. This allows the filling to peek through, creating a tender, flavorful cake.
4. Place Cream Cheese: Scatter the cubed cream cheese across the cake mix layer. These cubes will soften and create creamy pockets within the cake.
5. Top With Remaining Cake Mix: Sprinkle the second half of the cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer, ensuring a consistent crumb texture.
6. Add Butter: Layer thin slices of butter over the top, covering as much surface as possible. This melts during baking to form a rich, golden crust.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
8. Cool Slightly: Allow the cake to rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set for perfect serving portions.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

• Butter Distribution: Thinly slicing the butter ensures it melts evenly and creates a crunchy, golden top.
• Cream Cheese Placement: Don’t stir the cream cheese; leave it in cubes so it melts in pockets for a delightful texture contrast.
• Check Doneness: The cake is done when the top is golden and a toothpick comes out mostly clean — a few moist crumbs are okay.
• Optional Toppings: Sprinkle powdered sugar or drizzle a simple lemon glaze for an extra pop of sweetness and presentation.

Variations to Try

This versatile dessert can be customized easily:

• Berry Twist: Swap half the lemon filling for blueberry or raspberry pie filling for a fruity variation.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a decadent version.
• Nuts & Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or sliced almonds on top before baking for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your lemon cream cheese dump cake slightly warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Whipped cream and fresh berries
• A drizzle of lemon glaze or simple syrup
• A cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy treat

Final Thoughts

This 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake proves that sometimes the simplest desserts make the biggest impact. With minimal ingredients, minimal effort, and maximum flavor, it’s a dessert that everyone will rave about. Perfectly tangy, creamy, and buttery, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home. Give it a try — you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!