Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, then this Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake with a Buttery Crust is your go-to recipe. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, this cake combines tangy lemon flavors with creamy cheese for a delightful treat. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Super simple to prepare—just dump, bake, and enjoy.
- The perfect balance of tangy and creamy flavors.
- Great for serving at parties or as an everyday treat.
- No need for a mixer; everything combines in the dish.
- It pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings and sides.
Ingredients
- 1 box lemon cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup water
Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Mix the Lemon Cream Cheese Layer
In a medium bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, lemon juice, and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Layer the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the lemon cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. Do not stir.
Step 4: Add the Liquid Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the eggs, lemon zest, melted butter, and water until combined. Pour this mixture over the dry cake mix, ensuring even distribution.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Notes
- For an extra lemony kick, add an additional tablespoon of lemon zest. Learn more about zesting techniques here.
- Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps.
Variations
- Blueberry Lemon: Add a cup of fresh blueberries for a fruity twist.
- Vanilla Delight: Use vanilla cake mix instead of lemon for a milder flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
Required Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
Storage Instructions
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Suggested Pairings/Serving Recommendations
Serve this cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A hot cup of tea or coffee complements it beautifully.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Find out how to maximize juice yield.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Experiment with different toppings like shredded coconut or a drizzle of glaze.
FAQ
- Can I use a different cake mix flavor? Yes, vanilla or even a yellow cake mix can work well.
- Is this cake best served warm or cold? While both are delicious, serving it warm enhances the creamy texture.
- How do I know when the cake is done? The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick should come out clean from the center.