Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that’s bursting with bright citrus flavor and creamy texture, look no further than this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of tangy lemon and smooth cream cheese, all layered on top of a moist, buttery cake base. What makes this dessert even better? It’s incredibly easy to put together — no complicated mixing or baking techniques required! Using just a few simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a potluck, or just indulging at home, this cake is sure to impress.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

What sets this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe apart is how effortlessly it combines fresh, vibrant flavors with a rich, comforting texture. The lemon zest and cake mix provide an uplifting citrus pop, while the cream cheese adds a luscious, velvety layer that keeps every bite smooth and satisfying. Plus, the addition of fresh berries on top gives it a natural sweetness and a beautiful splash of color that makes this cake look as good as it tastes.

If you want to take your dessert game to the next level without spending hours in the kitchen, this dump cake is a total game-changer. The recipe uses a simple layering technique where you literally “dump” ingredients into your baking dish, making it beginner-friendly but still incredibly delicious. For those who enjoy a little savory twist, there’s an optional touch of diced turkey bacon that adds a subtle smoky flavor—just enough to surprise your taste buds without overpowering the lemony freshness.

If you love desserts that deliver both simplicity and flavor, you might also enjoy the Delicious Lemon Glazed Scones, which similarly highlight the bright, tangy notes of lemon in an easy-to-make treat.

Ingredients

• 1 box lemon cake mix
• 1 package cream cheese, softened (8 oz)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup lemon zest (freshly grated)
• 1 cup diced turkey bacon (optional for added flavor)
• 3 cups fresh berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries)

How To Make Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your cake doesn’t stick and comes out easily.

Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Layer

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining. This will be the luscious layer that balances the citrusy cake.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Start by spreading the cream cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Next, sprinkle the lemon cake mix evenly over the cream cheese layer. This dry cake mix will soak up the liquids and create a tender crumb as it bakes.

If you’re using the optional diced turkey bacon, sprinkle it evenly over the cake mix now. The turkey bacon adds a mild savory note that pairs surprisingly well with the lemon and cream cheese.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Butter

Pour the cup of water gently over the top of the dry cake mix layer. This will moisten the cake mix and help it bake into a fluffy, soft cake. Finally, drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire dish. The butter is essential for creating a golden crust and rich flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The cake is done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.

Step 6: Cool and Top with Berries

Allow the cake to cool for about 20 minutes before topping it with the fresh berries. The berries add a fresh burst of flavor and a beautiful contrast to the creamy lemon layers below.

Serve warm or at room temperature. This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not softening the cream cheese enough — this can cause lumps in your cream cheese layer. Make sure it’s at room temperature before mixing.
• Skipping the melted butter drizzle — the butter is key for the perfect golden crust and moist texture.
• Using frozen berries — fresh berries work best for topping because they retain their shape and flavor without releasing too much water.
• Baking at the wrong temperature — 350°F is ideal. Too hot and the cake may burn on the edges before cooking through.
• Overmixing the cream cheese layer — blend just until smooth to keep the texture light and creamy.

Variations and Customizations

• Different Cake Mixes: Try using white cake or yellow cake mix instead of lemon for a subtler citrus flavor.
• Fruit Options: Swap out the fresh berries for sliced peaches, pineapple chunks, or even canned mandarin oranges for a tropical twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for an added crunch.
• Sweetener Swap: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar in the cream cheese layer for a natural sweetness.
• Spiced Twist: Add a teaspoon of ground ginger or cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture for a warm, aromatic flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, allow the cake to come to room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds. This dessert generally does not freeze well due to the fresh berries and cream cheese texture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh within a few days.

FAQ

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

While you can use frozen berries, they tend to release extra moisture and may make the topping soggy. For the best texture and flavor, fresh berries are recommended.

Is it necessary to include the diced turkey bacon?

No, the diced turkey bacon is optional and adds a subtle smoky flavor. If you prefer a purely sweet dessert, feel free to omit it.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

This recipe relies on cream cheese and butter for its signature creamy texture. To make it dairy-free, substitute cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives designed for baking, but note the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

How do I get the lemon zest without the bitter pith?

Use a microplane or fine grater to zest only the yellow outer layer of the lemon peel, avoiding the white pith underneath, which is bitter.

Conclusion

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of lemon combined with creamy indulgence. Its simple preparation and vibrant taste make it a standout dessert anyone can make with ease. Whether you’re new to baking or looking for a quick, impressive dessert, this cake fits the bill perfectly. With options to customize and adapt, it’s a versatile addition to your recipe collection that’s sure to become a favorite. For more sweet inspiration featuring cream cheese, be sure to check out the Red Velvet Brownies With The Best Cream Cheese Frosting for another luscious treat. Enjoy baking and savor every bite of this bright, creamy delight!

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