There’s something so delightful about an easy dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor, and this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is exactly that. With its bright lemon filling, creamy layers, and buttery cake top, it’s a perfectly balanced, crowd-pleasing treat that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

I was introduced to this recipe at a family gathering, and it immediately became a hit in my own household. It’s incredibly simple to make, perfect for sharing, and is sure to bring smiles with its refreshing lemony flavor. Let's jump right in!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is about to be your go-to dessert for all the right reasons.

To begin with, it’s one of the easiest cakes you’ll ever make. True to its name, you simply “dump” the ingredients into a pan—no mixing bowls or electric mixers needed! Just layer it up, bake, and enjoy.

The flavor is exceptional. The tart lemon filling is balanced by the rich, creamy cream cheese, while the cake topping adds a buttery, slightly crisp finish. Every bite is a blend of sweet, tart, and creamy goodness.

This cake requires just a few simple ingredients, many of which you probably already have on hand. Lemon pie filling, cream cheese, and boxed cake mix are all you need to get started, making it perfect for a last-minute dessert.

Best of all, it’s versatile and can be served warm or chilled. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of glaze, or a dollop of whipped cream to make it truly special. Now, let’s take a look at the key ingredients that make this cake so delicious.

Ingredients Notes

With only a few simple ingredients, this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake delivers big on flavor. Here’s a closer look at each one:

Lemon Pie Filling: This filling forms the base of the cake, providing that tart, lemony flavor that makes this dessert so refreshing. You can find canned lemon pie filling at most grocery stores, or you can use homemade lemon curd if you prefer a richer flavor.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds a smooth, creamy layer that balances the tartness of the lemon. Make sure it’s softened before using so it spreads easily throughout the cake.
Yellow Cake Mix: A box of yellow cake mix makes this recipe a breeze, creating a slightly sweet, buttery topping that pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon and cream cheese layers.
Butter: Butter is essential for that golden, crumbly topping. Slice it thinly and distribute evenly on top of the cake mix, allowing it to melt into the mix as it bakes for a buttery crust.
Optional Add-Ins: Feel free to add lemon zest or a handful of fresh berries for extra flavor and color. These additions bring out the lemon flavor even more and add a lovely freshness to each bite.

You’ll just need a 9x13-inch baking dish to get started—no mixers or other special equipment required!

How To Make This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake

Making this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is as easy as it gets. Follow these steps to whip up this tasty dessert in no time.

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Spread the Lemon Pie Filling: Pour the lemon pie filling into the bottom of the baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will be the tart base layer of the cake.
Add the Cream Cheese: Cut the softened cream cheese into small dollops and distribute them over the lemon filling. The cream cheese will bake into a creamy layer that complements the tartness of the lemon.
Sprinkle the Cake Mix: Open your box of yellow cake mix and sprinkle it over the cream cheese and lemon layers. Spread it out evenly so it covers the entire dish, creating a consistent topping.
Top with Butter: Slice your butter into thin pats and place them over the cake mix, covering as much of the surface as possible. This ensures a buttery, golden topping.

Bake the cake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the lemon filling is bubbling around the edges. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together, though it’s delicious served warm as well.

Storage Options

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is just as good the next day, making it great for leftovers. Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerator: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cream cheese layer helps retain moisture, so the cake stays delicious and creamy.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes. Or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat!

Variations and Substitutions

This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake can easily be adapted to suit your tastes. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

Use Different Cake Mix Flavors: Swap the yellow cake mix for a lemon or white cake mix for a different flavor profile. A lemon cake mix will add an extra zesty punch, while a white cake mix keeps it a bit lighter.
Add Fresh Berries: Fresh or frozen berries, like blueberries or raspberries, add color and an extra layer of sweetness. Scatter them on top of the lemon filling before adding the cream cheese.
Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix to accommodate dietary needs. It’s an easy swap that doesn’t change the flavor or texture of the cake.
Add a Lemon Glaze: For an extra pop of lemon, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled cake. It adds a hint of sweetness and a pretty finish.
Serve with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: For a classic pairing, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy coolness is a lovely contrast to the cake’s tart and buttery flavors.

Feel free to get creative with flavors and toppings. This cake is versatile, so have fun and enjoy every bite of your homemade Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake!