Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake with a Buttery Crust

Introduction

If you want a dessert that’s simple to prepare yet delivers an irresistibly rich and zesty finish, this Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake with a Buttery Crust is the answer. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any celebration that calls for a show-stopping treat, this cake is beloved for its sublime combination of bright citrus, luscious cream cheese, and a golden, buttery finish.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

What makes this cake a crowd favorite is its ease—just layer the ingredients, bake, and reveal a plush, creamy center under a crisp, golden crust. The contrast between tangy lemon and smooth cream cheese is perfectly complemented by the buttery topping, creating a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and indulgent. No need for complicated steps or fancy tools—simple, delicious, and always impressive.

Essentials for Assembly and Baking

While this dump cake recipe is minimal fuss, there are a few kitchen helpers that make preparation a breeze. Use a Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for lining your baking pan—it prevents sticking and allows for effortless cleanup. To ensure even layering and perfectly distributed ingredients, grab a Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale with LCD Display to easily measure your cream cheese and cake mix. Softening the cream cheese just right? A quick blend with the Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender helps it spread easily and evenly over the lemon layer. For serving the perfect slice, a sturdy spatula from a quality kitchen utensil drawer—like one kept organized in the Lifewit Silverware Drawer Organizer—is ideal.

Crafting Your Cake Layers

Begin with lemon pie filling as the base, bursting with tart citrus flavor. Over this, soft dollops of sweetened cream cheese bring a rich, velvety layer. The final touch? A generous sprinkle of lemon cake mix combined with melted butter to form a decadently crisp crust during baking.

The dump-and-bake method means there’s no worrying about precise technique—just assemble and watch as magic happens in the oven.

Serving Suggestions and Finishing Touches

For standout presentation, let the cake cool for a few minutes after baking; this allows the layers to set slightly for neater slicing. Garnish individual servings with a dusting of powdered sugar, a swirl of whipped cream, and a curl of lemon zest for an extra pop of color and zing.

This dessert is excellent served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or chilled for an equally satisfying texture that highlights the creaminess of the filling.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields about 12 generous squares. Each serving is estimated at around 320–370 calories, depending on butter and cream cheese used—making it a sweet, tangy treat meant for sharing.

Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recap

This dump cake brings together the brightness of lemon, the decadence of cream cheese, and the rich crunch of buttery crumbs. It’s a go-to choice for easy entertaining and leaves a lasting impression with every citrusy forkful.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with a sheet from the Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for fail-proof removal and cleanup.
2. Spread both cans of lemon pie filling evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. In a bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. For speed and perfect consistency, use your Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender or a hand mixer.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the sweetened cream cheese mixture over the lemon filling, and gently swirl with a spatula to create a marbled effect (don’t over-mix).
5. Sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the cream cheese and lemon layers. Use your Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale with LCD Display for accuracy, ensuring even distribution.
6. Pour the melted butter evenly over the top, covering as much surface as possible. Use the back of a spoon to gently distribute if needed.
7. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving with an organized utensil picked from your Lifewit Silverware Drawer Organizer.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes