Scatter the 1 cup of white chocolate chips evenly over the top of the lemon pie filling. These will melt slightly during baking, adding pockets of sweetness throughout the cake.
Step 4: Layer the Cream Cheese
Place the cubed 4 ounces of cream cheese on top of the white chocolate chips. Don’t worry about spreading it out—just distribute the cubes evenly across the surface. As the cake bakes, the cream cheese will melt and blend into the layers for a creamy texture.
Step 5: Top with Lemon Cake Mix
Sprinkle the entire contents of the lemon cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. Pat it down gently to ensure it covers the other ingredients completely. There’s no need to mix anything—this is a true "dump" cake!
Step 6: Add the Butter
Arrange the ½ cup of thinly sliced unsalted butter on top of the cake mix in an even layer. The butter will melt during baking, creating a moist and flavorful crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes , or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
Tip: If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil for the last 15–20 minutes of baking.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 20–30 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes slicing easier. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of lemon glaze.
Customization Ideas
While the classic version of this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is delicious, here are some ideas to switch things up:
- Berry Twist : Stir in chopped strawberries or blueberries along with the lemon pie filling for added freshness.
- Citrus Zest : Grate some fresh lemon zest over the finished cake for extra aroma and flavor.
- Nutty Delight : Fold in chopped pecans or almonds for crunch and contrast.
- Vanilla Glaze : Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract over the cooled cake for extra elegance.
- Different Flavors : Experiment with other fruit pie fillings (like cherry or raspberry) and matching cake mixes for unique variations.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Quality Ingredients : Fresh lemon pie filling and premium white chocolate chips enhance the overall flavor.
- Don’t Overmix : Resist the urge to stir the layers together—let the heat of the oven do the work for you.
- Check for Doneness : Insert a toothpick toward the end of baking to confirm the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool Properly : Allowing the cake to cool ensures the layers hold together when sliced.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of simplicity and flavor. Its tangy lemon notes, creamy cheese, and sweet chocolate chips come together in a delightful package that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.
So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s bake something truly special. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or saved for later, this cake is sure to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite!
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore our other easy and delicious dessert ideas. Happy baking, and may your kitchen adventures always end in sweet success! 🍋✨
