Lemon cream cheese dump cake is one of those easy desserts I always turn to when I need something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s tangy, creamy, buttery—and honestly, kind of addictive. If you’ve never made a dump cake before, don’t worry. This one is simple, fast, and absolutely foolproof.
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a tangy, sweet, and ridiculously easy dessert with layers of lemon pie filling, creamy cheesecake, and buttery cake mix topping. With just a few ingredients and no mixing, it’s the ultimate lazy lemon lover’s treat.
Ingredients
Scale
16 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
10 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) unsalted butter, melted, plus more for the baking dish
1 (13.25- to 15.25-ounce) box yellow, butter, or lemon cake mix
1 (21-ounce) can lemon pie filling, divided
1 large egg
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Heat the oven to 350°F. Lightly coat an 8×8- or 9×9-inch baking dish with unsalted butter.
Mix 10 tablespoons melted unsalted butter and 1 box cake mix together with a fork in a medium bowl until combined. Transfer 1 1/2 cups of the mixture to the baking dish. Press down lightly into an even layer to form a thin crust.
Beat 16 ounces room-temperature cream cheese, 1/2 cup of the lemon pie filling, 1 large egg, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt together with a hand mixer on medium speed or a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Transfer onto the crust and spread into an even layer.
Spread the remaining lemon pie filling in an even layer over the cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle the remaining cake mix and butter mixture evenly over the top.
Bake until the cake jiggles slightly and is browned around the edges, 40 to 45 minutes. Let the cake cool for at least 45 minutes before serving. Scoop into serving bowls and top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
Use boxed lemon cake mix or vanilla for a mellow lemon flavor.
Dot the cream cheese evenly to get creamy bites throughout.
Serve warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days—reheat for gooey texture.
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:35 minutes to 40 minutes
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Nutrition
Serving Size:2 tablespoons
Calories:565
Sugar:30.3 g
Sodium:357.7 mg
Fat:31.6 g
Saturated Fat:17.3 g
Unsaturated Fat:6g
Trans Fat:1 g
Carbohydrates:67.4 g
Fiber:1.5 g
Protein:5.1 g
Keywords: Lemon pie filling, yellow cake mix, cream cheese
Table of Contents
What Is A Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
If you’ve never tried making a lemon cream cheese dump cake, you’re in for a real treat. A dump cake is exactly what it sounds like—a dessert where you literally dump all the ingredients into one baking dish, layer by layer, and pop it in the oven. No mixing bowls. No complicated steps. Just easy, no-stress baking.
So, how does a lemon cream cheese dump cake fit into this concept? It starts with lemon pie filling as the fruity base, followed by dollops of cream cheese for that creamy tang, then a dry cake mix sprinkled right over the top. Melted butter ties everything together and creates a crispy, golden crust once baked.
What makes a lemon cream cheese dump cake so special isn’t just the minimal prep—it’s the bold, refreshing flavor. The lemon brings a bright citrus punch, while the cream cheese softens the tartness and adds richness. It’s a match made in dessert heaven.
Another reason people love the lemon cream cheese dump cake is that it’s nearly impossible to mess up. Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, you can make it perfectly on the first try. It’s a reliable go-to recipe for holidays, potlucks, or just when you need a quick homemade dessert with big payoff.
This kind of dump cake also invites creativity. You can play with add-ins like shredded coconut, blueberries, or even white chocolate chips to customize your lemon cream cheese dump cake just the way you like it. But even the classic version is downright delicious.
In short, a lemon cream cheese dump cake is one of the easiest and most satisfying desserts you can make—no stress, no mess, just layers of flavor that bake into something magical.
Lemon Dump Cake Ingredients ~ Just 4!
You won’t believe how easy it is to make a lemon cream cheese dump cake when all you need are just four simple ingredients. That’s the beauty of this dessert—it delivers huge flavor with hardly any effort. Here’s what goes into it:
1. Lemon Pie Filling
This is the heart of your lemon cream cheese dump cake. It brings that bright, citrusy tang that makes each bite pop. You can use store-bought lemon pie filling for convenience, or go the homemade route if you’ve got the time. Either way, it creates the perfect juicy base.
2. Cream Cheese
Cream cheese gives your dump cake its signature richness. You don’t need to mix it—just cut it into cubes or soften it and drop spoonfuls over the lemon layer. The pockets of cream cheese melt into the filling as it bakes, making the texture creamy and dreamy.
3. Yellow Cake Mix
Don’t overthink this step. Just open a box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the filling and cream cheese. No mixing required. The dry cake mix will absorb the moisture from the filling and butter to form a soft, cakey topping with crispy edges.
Don’t miss our Blackberry Jalapeño Sauce—it’s a bold, fruity topping you might want to drizzle on your lemon dump cake for a flavor twist!
4. Butter
The final touch is butter—either melted or sliced thin and placed across the cake mix layer. As it bakes, the butter melts down, moistening the cake mix and helping everything cook evenly. This is what creates that golden, crispy topping everyone loves.
These four ingredients are all you need to whip up a delicious lemon cream cheese dump cake in under 10 minutes of prep time. The simplicity is what makes it so popular—you can keep everything on hand for a last-minute dessert that still feels homemade and indulgent.
Storing + Make-Ahead
One of the best things about a lemon cream cheese dump cake—besides how easy it is to make—is how well it stores. Whether you’re prepping ahead or saving leftovers, this dessert stays delicious for days.
How to Store Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
After your dump cake has cooled completely, cover the baking dish with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. The cream cheese layer will firm up slightly, while the lemon flavor continues to develop. It tastes great chilled or reheated.
If you like your dump cake warm, simply pop a portion in the microwave for 30 seconds. The texture softens nicely, and you still get that tangy-sweet lemon goodness with every bite.
Can You Freeze It? Absolutely.
Yes, the lemon cream cheese dump cake freezes beautifully. Just cut cooled leftovers into portions, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and store in a freezer-safe container or bag. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Jalapeño Bagel—it’s another surprisingly delicious treat that stores well and pairs with sweet or savory toppings.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you’re hosting or just want to save time, you can prep your lemon cream cheese dump cake ahead of time. Simply assemble the lemon filling and cream cheese layers in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Right before baking, sprinkle on the dry cake mix and butter, then pop it into the oven.
This way, you can enjoy a fresh, warm dessert without rushing around last minute. Whether you’re prepping for a weekend dinner or a party, this dump cake is always a good idea.
Serving Recommendations
Now that your lemon cream cheese dump cake is warm and golden, it’s time to serve it up right. This cake is delicious straight out of the oven, but a few simple extras can turn it into something truly unforgettable.
Serve It Warm
Right after baking, the cake is at its best—hot, gooey, and filled with bright lemon flavor. Use a large spoon to scoop portions into bowls, making sure to get all the layers from creamy to crisp. It’s cozy, comforting, and absolutely perfect as-is.
Add a Cool Topping
If you want to take things up a notch, try topping each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream. The cool, creamy topping balances the tart lemon and rich cream cheese beautifully.
Fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries are a natural match for this dump cake. Sprinkle them on top right before serving to add color, texture, and an extra pop of flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The lemon cream cheese dump cake is a crowd-pleaser that works for so many occasions. It’s ideal for potlucks, picnics, Easter brunch, summer cookouts, and casual family dinners. You don’t need a special reason to make it—it’s that easy and that good.
How to Make Lemon Dump Cake
If you’ve never made a lemon cream cheese dump cake before, don’t worry—it’s one of the easiest desserts you’ll ever bake. No mixer, no complicated steps. Just layer, bake, and enjoy.
Here’s exactly how to make it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat Your Oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want it fully heated before your dump cake goes in.
Grease Your Baking Dish. Use a 9×13-inch dish and give it a light coat of butter or non-stick spray.
Dump in the Lemon Pie Filling. Spread it out evenly across the bottom of the dish. This becomes the zesty, juicy base of your lemon cream cheese dump cake.
Add Cream Cheese. Soften the cream cheese, then drop spoonfuls evenly over the lemon filling. You don’t have to mix—just dot it across the surface.
Sprinkle the Cake Mix. Pour the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the lemon and cream cheese layers. Don’t stir it in—just sprinkle and cover the top.
Top with Butter. Slice butter thinly and lay it over the cake mix, or melt it and drizzle it all over for more even browning.
Bake for 45–50 Minutes. The top should be golden brown, with the edges bubbling. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.
That’s it! You’ve got a warm, gooey, golden dessert that’s equal parts citrusy and creamy.
What is the biggest mistake to avoid when making a dump cake?
The most common mistake is mixing the layers together. With a lemon cream cheese dump cake, the magic happens when you layer ingredients exactly as they are—lemon filling, cream cheese, dry cake mix, and butter. Stirring ruins the signature texture and prevents that golden, buttery topping from forming properly.
Can you put cream cheese in a dump cake?
Absolutely, and it’s one of the best upgrades you can make. Cream cheese adds richness, smoothness, and a mild tang that complements the tart lemon flavor. When making a lemon cream cheese dump cake, just drop spoonfuls over the filling—no need to blend it in.
Do lemon and cream cheese go together?
Yes, they’re a perfect pair! Lemon’s tart, zesty flavor cuts through the creamy, slightly tangy richness of cream cheese. That’s why the lemon cream cheese dump cake works so well—it balances bright citrus with smooth indulgence in every bite.
What are the most popular dump cake flavors?
Some all-time favorites include cherry chocolate, peach cobbler, apple cinnamon, and pumpkin spice. But if you’re after something light, bright, and creamy, a lemon cream cheese dump cake is one of the most refreshing options out there.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to make, big on flavor, and perfect for sharing, the lemon cream cheese dump cake is it. With just four basic ingredients, minimal prep, and loads of sweet-tart goodness, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.
Whether you’re hosting a party, need a last-minute dessert, or just want something cozy on a weeknight, this dump cake delivers every time.
Looking for more easy sweet creations? Don’t miss our Lemon Balm Drink for Weight Loss—a citrusy sidekick to your dessert moment.
Looking for drink pairings to serve alongside your lemon dump cake? Head over to my page on Facebook for drink recipes and presentation tips that complement creamy, citrusy desserts. Their refreshing ideas pair beautifully with something rich like this dump cake.
If you’re someone who loves collecting seasonal, easy-to-make recipes like this lemon cream cheese dump cake, you’ll find loads of ideas on this Pinterest Board by BrittthSavory. It’s a great place to gather visual ideas for hosting, holiday menus, or simply your next sweet craving.
Whether you’re looking for drink ideas or want to style your dessert like a pro, these platforms are great for staying inspired and sharing your creations.
A Colorado-based home cook, recipe developer, and unapologetic food enthusiast. I’m all about turning everyday ingredients into something extraordinary—because let’s be honest, life’s too short for boring meals. In my kitchen, simplicity meets flavor, and I’m here to share those "why didn’t I try this sooner?" moments with you.
Hey There, I’m
Britt
A Colorado-based home cook, recipe developer, and unapologetic food enthusiast. I’m all about turning everyday ingredients into something extraordinary—because let’s be honest, life’s too short for boring meals.
