Are you in the mood for a dessert that’s as delicious as it is uncomplicated? Look no further than the Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake! This delightful treat is bursting with tangy lemon flavor combined with the creamy richness of cream cheese. A fun fact: the origins of dump cakes go back to the 1980s, when bakers were searching for quicker desserts that didn’t require extensive prep work—hence the name! If you’re looking for a family-friendly dessert that you can whip up in no time, this recipe is your golden ticket. And if you love easy cakes, you might also want to try our Classic Chocolate Cake; it’s a reader favorite! So, let’s dive in and discover how to make this scrumptious cake that promises to impress without the stress.
What is Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake?
So, what’s the scoop on this quirky-named dessert? The Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is just what it sounds like—a deliciously zesty cake where you literally dump ingredients into a baking dish. No fancy mixing techniques or elaborate baking skills are required! It’s almost like saying that the less work you put in, the more you get out of it. Classic sayings like “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” hold true here, as this dessert will win over anyone who takes a bite! So, why not see for yourself how easy it is to create this zesty treat?
Why You’ll Love This Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
This Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake has several standout features. First, the primary highlight is the brilliant combination of tangy lemon and silky cream cheese, creating a wonderfully moist cake that’s bursting with flavor. Second, making this cake at home is incredibly cost-effective—who needs expensive bakery treats when you can create this sweet sensation for a fraction of the price? Lastly, the topping possibilities are endless! Whether you fancy a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, adding these delicious accompaniments can enhance the lemony profile. If you’re a fan of light desserts, this cake is a perfect alternative to heavier options like brownies. So, grab your apron and let’s get to work on this delightful creation!
How to Make Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Quick Overview
Let’s cut to the chase: this Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is as satisfying as it is simple! Imagine a delightful mix of sweet and tart with a creamy texture, all coming together in under an hour. With a prep time of just 10 minutes, this cake is an excellent choice for a last-minute dessert or a potluck treat.
Key Ingredients for Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to gather to create this mouthwatering masterpiece:
- 1 box of lemon cake mix
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup water
- Lemon zest (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important to ensure your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Cake Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, sour cream, and water until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
In a greased 9×13 baking dish, spread half of the cake batter. Then, spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly on top. Finally, add the remaining cake batter over the cream cheese layer.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Let the cake cool before garnishing with lemon zest if desired. Serve it warm or at room temperature.
What to Serve Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake With
Pair your Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake with a variety of delightful accompaniments! A scoop of vanilla ice cream offers a creamy contrast to the zesty cake, while fresh berries add a pop of color and flavor. If you’re feeling extra fancy, whipped cream and a sprig of mint make for an elegant presentation that delights the eyes as well as the taste buds. These pairings will complement the dessert brilliantly, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Top Tips for Perfecting Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
To ensure your Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is nothing short of spectacular, consider these helpful tips:
- Cream Cheese Softening: Make sure to soften your cream cheese completely before mixing; this will make it easier to incorporate with the powdered sugar.
- Zesty Option: For an extra punch, fold in some lemon zest or even a tablespoon of lemon juice into your cake batter.
- Don’t Overmix: When mixing your ingredients, avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Check for Doneness: Since ovens vary, start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This cake is a delightful treat, but if you have leftovers (which may be hard to believe), here’s how to store them. Allow the cake to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will keep well for up to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it longer, you can freeze individual slices for up to three months! Just wrap each slice thoroughly with plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. To reheat, allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently warm in the microwave or oven for a few moments before serving.
Now that you know how to create this wonderful Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
Easy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened) Ensure it is softened for easy mixing.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup water
- to taste lemon zest (optional, for garnish) Add for extra lemon flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- In another bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, sour cream, and water until everything is well combined.
- Grease a 9x13 baking dish. Spread half of the cake batter in the dish, then spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly on top, and finally add the remaining cake batter over the cream cheese layer.
Baking
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool before garnishing with lemon zest if desired. Serve it warm or at room temperature.
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