If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious, this Cheesecake Dump Cake with Lemon Cream is the perfect choice. With just four simple ingredients, you can create a treat that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the creamy richness of cheesecake, all topped with a golden, buttery crust.
Ingredients:
- Lemon Pie Filling: 1 can (16 oz)
- Yellow Cake Mix: 1 box (15 oz)
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, cut into small cubes
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), thinly sliced
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, prepare your baking dish. Take a square baking dish and generously butter it or spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking to the dish, ensuring easy serving and cleanup later on.
Step 2: Layer the Lemon Pie Filling
Open the can of lemon pie filling and pour it into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly across the bottom, making sure it reaches all corners and edges. This layer will provide a zesty base for your cake, infusing it with refreshing lemon flavor.
Step 3: First Layer of Cake Mix
Open your box of yellow cake mix. Evenly sprinkle half of the dry cake mix over the lemon pie filling. There’s no need to mix; simply ensure that the cake mix covers the lemon filling uniformly. This layer will absorb some moisture during baking, creating a moist and flavorful middle layer.
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese
Distribute the cubed cream cheese evenly over the layer of cake mix. Cutting the cream cheese into small cubes helps it melt more evenly during baking, creating pockets of creamy goodness throughout the cake. This addition brings a delightful cheesecake element to the dessert.
Step 5: Second Layer of Cake Mix
Take the remaining half of the cake mix and sprinkle it over the cream cheese layer. Again, spread it as evenly as possible. This top layer of cake mix will form a lovely crust as it bakes, adding texture to your dessert.
Step 6: Top with Butter
Place the thinly sliced pats of unsalted butter over the top layer of cake mix. Arrange the slices in a single layer, covering as much of the surface as possible. The butter will melt during baking, moistening the dry cake mix and helping to create a golden, crispy topping.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness at the 35-minute mark.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once the cake is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Allow it to cool for 15 to 20 minutes. This cooling period is important as it helps the layers set, making the cake easier to slice and serve. The cake can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the cake on its own to enjoy the full flavors of lemon and cream cheese.
- For an extra indulgent touch, top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added visual appeal.
Tips and Variations:
- Alternate Fillings: While lemon pie filling gives a refreshing tang, you can experiment with other fruit fillings like cherry, blueberry, or apple to suit your taste preferences.
- Cream Cheese Softness: For easier cutting, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cubing.
- Butter Distribution: Ensuring the butter covers most of the surface is key to achieving a moist and crumbly topping. If necessary, use a bit more butter to cover any dry spots.
Enjoy Your Dessert!
This Cheesecake Dump Cake with Lemon Cream is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, creamy textures, and a buttery crust. It’s an ideal dessert for gatherings, potlucks, or a simple family dinner. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of this scrumptious cake!
