Lemon Dump Cake

Indulge in the bright and zesty goodness of Lemon Dump Cake, a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweetness with a refreshing tartness. This easy-to-make recipe features layers of luscious lemon curd and a creamy filling, all topped with a buttery cake mix crust that bakes up beautifully golden. Imagine cutting into this bake and unveiling the warm, bubbling lemon filling that wafts a fragrant aroma throughout your kitchen. Perfect for summer picnics, gatherings, or any time you crave a touch of sunshine on your plate, this Lemon Dump Cake is sure to please family and friends alike. With minimal effort, you can bring a slice of citrusy bliss to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 (12-ounce) jars lemon curd: A sweet and tangy base that infuses the cake with bright lemon flavor.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds a rich and creamy texture, balancing the tartness of the lemon curd.
• 1 large egg, room temperature: Helps bind the ingredients together and creates a fluffy filling.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture, perfectly complementing the tart lemon.
• 1 (15.25-ounce) box vanilla, lemon, yellow or white cake mix: Forms the crunchy, golden topping that holds the dessert together.
• 1/2 cup salted butter, cold: Provides a rich buttery flavor and creates a crispy crust when melted during baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Evenly spread the lemon curd across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together the softened cream cheese, room temperature egg, and granulated sugar until smooth and fully combined.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the lemon curd, trying to distribute it as evenly as possible.
5. Sprinkle the entire box of cake mix over the cream cheese layer, ensuring even coverage across the top.
6. Slice the cold butter into very thin pats and place them on top of the dry cake mix, covering as much area as possible for a nice buttery flavor.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the topping is lightly browned and the lemon curd filling is bubbling around the edges.
8. Allow the dump cake to rest for 15 minutes before serving, letting the flavors meld together.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Calories: Approximately 330 per serving

Tips, Storage & Variations

• Tips: Make sure your cream cheese is well-softened to avoid lumps in the filling. For best results, use cold butter for easier slicing.
• Storage: Store leftover Lemon Dump Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: This cake can be frozen before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Variations: Try using a strawberry or raspberry curd for a berry twist, or add a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top before baking for added brightness.

FAQ

1. Can I use homemade lemon curd?
Absolutely! Homemade lemon curd will add a personal touch and enhance the flavor.

2. How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when the topping is lightly browned and the lemon curd is bubbling around the edges.

3. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cake in advance and bake it when ready to serve.

4. Is it possible to substitute the cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese for a different flavor, though it may alter the texture slightly.

5. What should I serve with Lemon Dump Cake?
It pairs beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries for a refreshing dessert experience.

6. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix, although vanilla or lemon works best for this recipe.

People Also Ask (PAA) Expansion

1. What is a dump cake?
A dump cake is a dessert where ingredients are simply "dumped" into a pan, making it easy to prepare with minimal mixing.

2. How long can Lemon Dump Cake be kept in the fridge?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

3. Can I make Lemon Dump Cake gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.

4. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
The recipe is not vegan due to cream cheese and egg, but you could try vegan alternatives.

5. How should I serve Lemon Dump Cake?
Serve it warm or chilled, topped with whipped cream or fresh fruit, for a delightful finish.

6. Can I add nuts to the topping?
Yes, adding chopped nuts on top of the cake mix can provide a nice crunch and flavor contrast.

7. Can I use a different baking dish size?
You can use a different size, but adjust the baking time as thinner or thicker layers will cook differently.

8. Can I replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute, but will change the texture and flavor slightly.

Conclusion

Lemon Dump Cake offers a delightful way to enjoy a delicious dessert with minimal effort. Its tangy lemon filling combined with a buttery topping makes it a delightful treat for any occasion. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and share it with loved ones. It’s sure to brighten anyone’s day with its sunny flavors. Enjoy the baking experience as you create a sweet and comforting dish that brings smiles to the table.