This Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a burst of sunshine with its zesty flavor and creamy goodness. The buttery crust makes each bite melt in your mouth!
I love how easy this cake is to whip up—just mix, dump, and bake! Plus, it’s perfect for brightening up any occasion or making your day a little sweeter.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives a rich and creamy base. If you want a lower-fat option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which works just as well in terms of texture.
Lemon Curd: This ingredient adds brightness and tang. If you don’t have lemon curd, you can make a quick homemade version by mixing lemon juice, sugar, and cornstarch, or substitute with store-bought lemon preserves.
Lemon Cake Mix: This mix is essential for the buttery crust. If you prefer a homemade touch, you could create a simple cake batter with flour, sugar, baking powder, and lemon flavoring instead.
Sour Cream: Adding sour cream enhances creaminess. For a lighter version, plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute that adds a similar tang.
Water or Lemon-Lime Soda: I recommend using lemon-lime soda for extra flavor and sweetness, but plain water will also work if you’re watching your sugar intake.
How Can I Get the Perfect Cream Cheese Layer?
The cream cheese layer is key to the creaminess of this dessert. Make sure your cream cheese is softened completely to avoid lumps. Beat it with the powdered sugar until smooth. Here are a few tips:
- Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until fluffy.
- Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish, as this will help it layer nicely with the lemon curd on top.
How to Make Tangy Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake with a Buttery Crust
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup lemon curd
For the Cake Mixture:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 package (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix
- 1 cup water or lemon-lime soda (for flavor)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Zest of 1 lemon (for added flavor)
For Serving:
- Optional: whipped cream for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dump cake will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes of baking. After baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Perfect for a quick dessert that packs a burst of tangy flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it gently with butter or cooking spray to ensure your cake doesn’t stick.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. Once ready, spread this dreamy cream cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish.
3. Add the Lemon Curd:
Next, take the lemon curd and spoon it over the cream cheese layer. Use a spatula to spread it out gently, covering the cream cheese evenly. This layer will add a tangy sweetness that’s irresistibly delicious!
4. Prepare the Cake Mixture:
In another bowl, mix the melted butter, lemon cake mix, water (or lemon-lime soda), and sour cream (if you choose to use it). Stir until everything is just combined—you want the mixture to be thick and crumbly, not too smooth.
5. Assemble the Cake:
Now, sprinkle the cake mixture evenly over the lemon curd layer. Make sure to cover the entire surface for an evenly baked treat!
6. Bake the Cake:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the cake is set. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overbake!
7. Cool and Serve:
When the cake is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. After it has cooled slightly, cut it into squares. For an extra special touch, serve it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest on top. Enjoy your tangy lemon treat!
Can I Use Light Cream Cheese or a Cream Cheese Substitute?
Yes, you can use light cream cheese for a lower-fat option, but the texture may be slightly different. If you need a dairy-free substitute, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative, which will still provide a creamy texture, though the flavor may vary slightly.
Can I Swap the Lemon Curd for Another Flavor?
Absolutely! If lemon isn’t your favorite, you can substitute with other fruit curds like raspberry or passionfruit. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor profile will change accordingly, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds before serving, or enjoy it cold!
Can I Make This Dump Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance! Just bake the cake, let it cool completely, and cover it tightly before storing in the fridge. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it cold or reheat it as mentioned above.
