Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Only 4 simple ingredients
✅ No mixer or fancy tools needed
✅ Zesty, creamy, and perfectly sweet
✅ Budget-friendly and beginner-approved
✅ A guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any event
This recipe is proof that less really is more when it comes to creating unforgettable desserts.
The 4 Magical Ingredients
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1 box lemon cake mix (any brand)
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1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
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1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
💡 Optional Add-Ons: Vanilla extract, lemon zest, powdered sugar for garnish
These four ingredients come together to create a layered, creamy, and slightly crunchy dessert with minimal prep and maximum reward.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or spray a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
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First layer: Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the pan.
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Second layer: Scatter chunks of softened cream cheese over the filling. You can leave them in pieces or swirl lightly for a marbled effect.
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Third layer: Sprinkle the entire box of dry lemon cake mix evenly over the top—do not mix.
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Final layer: Pour the melted butter over the cake mix as evenly as possible. Try to moisten all the dry areas.
🍋 Tip: Add a little lemon zest or a dash of vanilla for extra flavor pop.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The edges should be lightly crisp and the center soft and gooey.
Let cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This gives the cream cheese layer time to settle.
How to Serve It
This cake is delicious served:
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Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream 🍨
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Chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar
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With whipped cream and fresh berries on top
Whether hot or cold, the contrast of creamy, tart, and buttery flavors will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Tips for Best Results
✔️ Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest texture
✔️ Don’t stir the layers—just “dump” and go
✔️ If the top looks dry, drizzle a little extra butter mid-bake
✔️ Want extra tang? Use 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice or zest
✔️ Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days
Fun Variations to Try
🍓 Strawberry Lemon Dump Cake – Add a layer of strawberry pie filling
🫐 Lemon Blueberry Version – Mix in fresh or frozen blueberries
🍫 Lemon Cheesecake Crumble – Top with white chocolate chips or crushed graham crackers
🥥 Lemon Coconut Twist – Sprinkle shredded coconut on top before baking
Make It Ahead & Storage Tips
Fridge: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
Reheat: Microwave single portions for 20–30 seconds or enjoy cold.
Freeze: This cake freezes well—just wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Pro Tip: Freeze in individual servings for a quick treat on demand!
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 12 Servings)
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Calories: ~320
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Fat: 17g
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Sugar: 25g
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Carbs: 35g
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Protein: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other cake mix flavors?
Yes! Try white, vanilla, or even angel food cake mix for a lighter flavor.
Is there a substitute for lemon pie filling?
You can use homemade lemon curd or lemon pudding, but pie filling offers the best consistency.
Do I need to soften the cream cheese?
Yes, or it won’t melt properly. Room temperature cream cheese ensures smooth texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use two 9x13 pans or a larger casserole dish.
Great for Any Occasion
🎂 Birthdays
🍋 Lemon lovers’ parties
☀️ Summer BBQs
🏫 School events
🎉 Potlucks and gatherings
This recipe’s simplicity and flavor make it ideal for any celebration—or just a cozy weekend treat.
Final Thoughts
If you're short on time but still want to impress, this 4-Fixings Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is your secret weapon. It’s easy, quick, and full of bold, creamy lemon flavor that satisfies every sweet tooth.
With no mixer, no fuss, and no baking stress, this dessert is as stress-free as it is delicious.
So grab a spoon, dig in, and don’t forget to save this recipe—you’re going to want it again. 💛
📌 Save & Share
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📍 Pin this on your easy dessert board
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📸 Share on Instagram with #LemonCreamCheeseDumpCake
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💬 Comment below with your favorite fruity variation!
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