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4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

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Introduction

4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a bright, tangy, no-fuss dessert that delivers bold lemon flavor with creamy richness and a buttery cake topping. With just four simple ingredients and no mixing required, it’s perfect for quick desserts, potlucks, or last-minute guests.

Origin

Dump cakes became popular in American home kitchens during the mid-20th century, thanks to boxed cake mixes and canned fillings. This lemon-cream cheese variation adds a cheesecake-style twist to the classic dump-and-bake method.

Cultural Significance

This dessert is a favorite at church suppers, family gatherings, and community potlucks. It reflects America’s love for easy comfort desserts that feel homemade while using pantry staples.

Ingredients Quantity (Serves 8–10)

  • Lemon pie filling: 1 can (21 oz / 595 g)
  • Cream cheese (softened): 8 oz (225 g)
  • Yellow or lemon cake mix: 1 box (15.25 oz / 432 g)
  • Unsalted butter (thinly sliced): ½ cup (115 g)

Optional Additions (Not included in the 4 ingredients)

  • Fresh lemon zest
  • Powdered sugar for garnish
  • Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
  • White chocolate chips

Tips for Success

  • Do not mix the layers—layering creates the classic dump cake texture.
  • Slice butter very thin so it melts evenly.
  • Drop cream cheese in small pieces to distribute flavor.
  • Bake until bubbly and golden on top.
  • Let rest 10–15 minutes before serving.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Fruit Layer:
    • Spread lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom.
  3. Cream Cheese Layer:
    • Cut cream cheese into small cubes and scatter over the filling.
  4. Cake Layer:
    • Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the top.
  5. Butter Layer:
    • Arrange butter slices evenly across the cake mix.
  6. Bake:
    • Bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
  7. Cool Slightly:
    • Let sit before serving.

Description

This lemon dump cake is gooey, creamy, and citrus-bright, with tangy lemon filling, pockets of rich cream cheese, and a buttery cake topping that forms a golden crust.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 350–390 kcal
  • Fat: 17–21 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45–50 g
  • Protein: 4–5 g
  • Sugar: 28–32 g

Conclusion

4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake proves that simple desserts can still feel special. Minimal effort, minimal ingredients, and maximum flavor make it a reliable favorite.

Recommendation

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Enjoy smaller portions and pair with fresh berries for balance. Using reduced-fat cream cheese can slightly lighten the dessert while keeping its creamy appeal.

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