Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake: A Simple and Delicious Dessert

Introduction

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. The beauty of this dump cake lies in its simplicity; just layer the ingredients, bake, and enjoy a deliciously decadent treat with minimal effort.

What is a Dump Cake?

A dump cake is a type of dessert that involves “dumping” ingredients into a baking dish and baking them without extensive mixing or preparation. This technique allows for a quick and hassle-free baking experience, making it ideal for novice bakers or anyone looking to whip up a sweet treat in no time. The result is a cake-like dessert that often features a crisp topping and a gooey filling, making it both visually appealing and satisfying.

Ingredients

To create this luscious Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 (15.25 oz) box lemon cake mix
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for the glaze, optional)
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk (for the glaze, optional)

Optional Garnishes

  • Lemon slices (for decoration)
  • Fresh mint leaves (for color and flavor)

Nutritional Information

Before diving into the preparation, let’s take a closer look at the nutritional information for the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake:

  • Servings: Approximately 12
  • Calories per serving: 250
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 16g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Weight Watchers Points: Approximately 8 points per serving

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly preheated oven is essential for even baking and ensuring that your cake rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

  1. Soften the Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, place 1 (8 oz) package of softened cream cheese. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until it is easy to mix.
  2. Add Sugar and Lemon: Add 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese. The combination of sugar and lemon will create a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the creaminess of the cheese.
  3. Mix Until Smooth: Using an electric mixer or a whisk, blend the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps, as this will affect the texture of the cake.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

  1. Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent the cake from sticking.
  2. Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture: Pour the cream cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This layer will provide a rich, creamy base for the cake.

Step 4: Add the Cake Mix

  1. Sprinkle the Cake Mix: Evenly sprinkle 1 (15.25 oz) box of lemon cake mix over the cream cheese layer. Do not stir or mix; simply let the dry cake mix rest on top of the cream cheese.

Step 5: Add Water and Butter

  1. Combine Water and Butter: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of water and 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Pour Over the Cake Mix: Carefully pour the water and butter mixture evenly over the cake mix layer. The liquid will seep through and help create the cake’s texture. Avoid mixing it in; just let it settle.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

  1. Bake in Preheated Oven: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking. The edges should be set, and the top should have a light golden color.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

  1. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the baking dish for about 15-20 minutes. This cooling time will help the cake set further.
  2. Prepare the Glaze (Optional): While the cake is cooling, you can prepare a simple glaze by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
  3. Drizzle the Glaze: Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Slice the Cake: Using a sharp knife, cut the cake into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.
  2. Garnish (Optional): For a decorative touch, garnish each slice with a lemon slice and a sprig of fresh mint. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a refreshing flavor.

Step 9: Storing Leftovers

  1. Store Properly: If you have any leftovers, cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  2. Reheat if Desired: If you prefer your cake warm, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Useful Tips

  • Fresh Lemons vs. Bottled Juice: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest. However, if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can be a suitable alternative.
  • Customization Options: Feel free to customize this cake by adding blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist. Simply layer them with the cream cheese mixture before adding the cake mix.
  • Vegan Variation: For a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and use a vegan cake mix.

Conclusion

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its zesty lemon flavor, creamy texture, and simple preparation, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether enjoyed on a sunny afternoon or as a sweet finish to a family dinner, this cake embodies the essence of comfort food. Try it today and experience the joy of this luscious dessert!