The lemon dump cake is a quick and easy dessert that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Its tangy lemon filling, buttery crust, and soft cake texture make it a hit at gatherings or a perfect weeknight treat. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this dessert is sure to impress without the hassle.
For those exploring new desserts, this whole wheat tea cake offers a healthy yet flavorful alternative. If you’re a fan of rich and indulgent treats, check out the white forest cake for another showstopping dessert idea.
What is a Lemon Dump Cake?
A lemon dump cake gets its name from its simple preparation: you “dump” the ingredients directly into a baking dish, layer by layer, without the need for mixing. The result is a dessert that’s part cobbler, part cake, with a golden crust and tangy lemon filling.
Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a popular choice for all occasions. From family dinners to potlucks, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser. For more creative baking inspiration, explore this guide to making no-bake banana pudding cheesecake.
Ingredients for Lemon Dump Cake
Core Ingredients
- Lemon Pie Filling: The base layer that adds tangy sweetness.
- Lemon Cake Mix: Provides the soft, fluffy cake topping.
- Butter: Creates the golden, crispy crust.
Optional Add-Ins
- Cream Cheese: Adds richness and creaminess.
- Fresh Berries: Blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Powdered Sugar: For a light dusting before serving.
For a deeper dive into flavors, you might enjoy experimenting with ingredients similar to this banana cream cheese frozen yogurt, which balances creamy textures and fruity flavors perfectly.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans of lemon pie filling
- 1 box of lemon cake mix
- 1 stick (½ cup) of unsalted butter, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Layer the Pie Filling
Spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of the dish. - Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the lemon cake mix evenly over the pie filling. - Top with Butter Slices
Arrange butter slices evenly across the top layer to ensure uniform browning. - Bake
Bake for 40–50 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. - Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.
Tips for a Perfect Lemon Dump Cake
- Distribute Butter Evenly: Cover the entire cake mix layer with butter slices to avoid dry spots.
- Customize the Flavor: Add lemon zest or vanilla extract to enhance the citrus flavor.
- Watch the Baking Time: Check the cake after 40 minutes to prevent over-browning.
Creative Variations
Lemon-Blueberry Dump Cake
- Add a layer of fresh or frozen blueberries on top of the lemon pie filling before adding the cake mix.
Tropical Lemon Dump Cake
- Include crushed pineapple and shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Cream Cheese Lemon Dump Cake
- Drop spoonfuls of softened cream cheese over the lemon pie filling before layering the cake mix.
For those who love experimenting with dessert textures, try this recipe for gooey butter cake ice cream as a unique complement to your lemon dump cake.
Serving and Storing
Serving Suggestions
- Top with Whipped Cream: Lightens the tanginess and adds a creamy finish.
- Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream: Balances the citrus flavors with cool, creamy goodness.
- Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Blueberries or strawberries enhance the presentation and flavor.
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm slices in the microwave or oven to restore the texture.
FAQs
Can I Use a Different Pie Filling?
Yes! Try cherry, apple, or blueberry pie filling for other flavor combinations.
What’s the Best Butter to Use?
Unsalted butter is ideal, but salted butter works if you prefer a slightly savory note.
Can I Prepare Lemon Dump Cake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Bake the cake a day in advance and reheat before serving for the best results.
Conclusion
The lemon dump cake is a versatile and easy-to-make dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor. With its tangy lemon filling and buttery crust, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with creative variations, this dessert will never disappoint.
For more dessert ideas, explore the comforting flavors of a whole wheat tea cake or indulge in the decadence of a white forest cake. Happy baking!