Indulge in a sweet-tart dessert that’s as simple as it is satisfying. This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake layers zesty lemon pie filling, rich cream cheese, and buttery cake mix to create a golden, gooey masterpiece — no mixing required!
Perfect for potlucks, spring gatherings, or anytime you’re craving something citrusy and comforting.

💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Effortless: Just layer and bake — no mixing bowls needed.
- Sweet + Tart Flavor: The perfect balance of citrusy zing and creamy sweetness.
- Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, holidays, or weeknight treats.
- Minimal Cleanup: One pan, one spoon — done!
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 1 (21 oz) can lemon pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for garnish)
- Whipped cream (optional, for serving)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly in the bottom of the dish.
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the lemon filling.
- Evenly sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix over the top.
- Pour melted butter and milk evenly over the surface — do not stir.
Step 3: Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling at the edges.
Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Dust with powdered sugar, add a dollop of whipped cream, and serve warm.
Enjoy every gooey, lemony bite! 🍋💛

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Reheat: Microwave 20–30 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven until heated through
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freeze: Wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months

🍋 Gooey Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Spatula or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 1 21 oz can lemon pie filling
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup butter melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar for garnish
- Whipped cream optional, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- Spread lemon pie filling evenly in the dish.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the lemon filling.
- Sprinkle dry lemon cake mix evenly on top—do not stir.
- Pour melted butter and milk evenly over the surface.
- Step 3: Bake
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and bubbling at the edges.
- Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.
- Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Dust with powdered sugar and top with whipped cream if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, lemony goodness! 🍋💛
Notes
🔍 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 15g
- Sugar: 28g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 340mg
🔥 Pro Tips for the Best Dump Cake
- Use Room Temp Cream Cheese: It blends and dollops easier.
- Don’t Stir Layers: Resist the urge — layering creates the best texture.
- Extra Lemony Boost: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese for more zing.
- Try Flavor Variations: Swap lemon pie filling for cherry, blueberry, or peach for a fun twist.
🔄 Flavor Variations
- Berry Lemon: Add raspberries or blueberries before baking
- Coconut Twist: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the top
- Vanilla Swap: Use vanilla cake mix for a softer lemon flavor
- Creamier Top: Mix cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk for a richer layer
📊 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 320
- Carbs: 42g
- Fat: 15g
- Sugar: 28g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 340mg
(Values vary depending on cake mix brand and serving size.)
❓ FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Yes! Vanilla or white cake mix works well if you want a subtler lemon flavor.
Do I need to soften the cream cheese first?
Yes. Room-temperature cream cheese ensures a smoother texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. Make it a day ahead and reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I add fresh fruit?
Yes! A few fresh raspberries or blueberries sprinkled in can add a nice touch.
✅ Final Thoughts
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the definition of effortless baking — just dump, bake, and enjoy! With its bright citrus flavor, creamy pockets of sweetened cream cheese, and buttery cake crust, it’s a dessert you’ll want to make on repeat.
Whether for a spring gathering, weekend treat, or potluck favorite, this cake always delivers. 🍰💛