Introduction
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the freshness of lemon with the smoothness of cream cheese in a convenient, easy-to-make cake. This dessert is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet treat after dinner.
Flavorful Combination
The Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake brings together the zesty tanginess of lemons with the richness of cream cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Each bite offers a burst of citrusy brightness from the lemons, balanced by the creamy and slightly tangy notes of the cream cheese. The hint of sweetness ties everything together, making this cake a well-rounded and satisfying dessert.
Simplicity at Its Best
One of the best things about this dessert is how effortless it is to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious cake ready to go in no time. By “dumping” the ingredients together and letting the oven do the work, you can enjoy a homemade dessert without the hassle of extensive preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to baking, this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a fuss-free option that guarantees a delightful outcome every time.
What Tools You’ll Need
Basic Kitchen Utensils
– Mixing bowl
– Spatula or wooden spoon
– 9×13-inch baking dish
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Electric mixer
To begin making the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, gather essential kitchen tools. A mixing bowl is necessary for combining ingredients, while a spatula or wooden spoon will help in stirring the batter. You will also need a 9×13-inch baking dish to bake the cake. Ensure you have measuring cups and spoons for accuracy in ingredient quantities. An electric mixer will streamline the process, especially when blending the cream cheese filling.
Specialized Equipment
– Zester or grater
– Lemon juicer
– Cooling rack
For the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, specialized equipment enhances the baking experience. A zester or grater is essential for obtaining lemon zest, adding citrusy flavor. A lemon juicer will efficiently extract lemon juice for the cake. After baking, a cooling rack is ideal for ensuring proper cooling and avoiding sogginess. These tools are crucial for achieving the desired taste and texture in this delightful dessert.
Ingredients with Detailed Measurements
For the Cake:
– 1 box lemon cake mix
– 1 cup water
– 1/3 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
For the Cream Cheese Filling and Topping:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 2 cups powdered sugar
To make the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, you will need the following ingredients with detailed measurements. For the cake portion, prepare a box of lemon cake mix and combine it with 1 cup of water, 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, and 3 large eggs. For the decadent cream cheese filling and topping, gather 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/4 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, the zest of 1 lemon, 1/2 cup of melted butter, and 2 cups of powdered sugar.
Instructions
Preparing the Lemon Cream Cheese Mixture
– In a mixing bowl, combine 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and 2 tbsp lemon juice.
– Beat the mixture until smooth and well combined. Set it aside.
Assembling the Dump Cake
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
– Spread a 20 oz can of undrained crushed pineapple evenly in the bottom of the dish.
– Evenly sprinkle a box of lemon cake mix over the pineapple layer.
– Drop small scoops of the cream cheese mixture over the cake mix layer.
– Pour 3/4 cup melted butter over the top of the cake.
– Spread 1 cup of shredded coconut and 1 cup of chopped pecans on top.
– Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
– Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delectable Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake!
Nutrition Score
Nutritional Value
– Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a delicious dessert, but it is important to be aware of its nutrition score. One serving of this cake contains approximately 350 calories, 20g of fat, and 38g of sugar. Additionally, it provides 4g of protein and 2g of dietary fiber. The cake is rich in carbohydrates, making it a high-energy treat.
– The cream cheese in this dessert contributes to its fat content, while the lemon adds a refreshing flavor. The sugar content is relatively high, so it’s advisable to consume this treat in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Health Benefits
– Despite its indulgent ingredients, Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake offers some nutritional benefits. The lemon provides a good dose of vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports the immune system and promotes skin health. Additionally, the cream cheese contains calcium, which is important for bone strength.
– While this cake should be enjoyed as an occasional treat due to its sugar and fat content, it can be part of a varied diet. Pairing it with fresh fruits or a small serving of low-fat yogurt can help balance out the nutritional profile of the meal. Overall, moderation is key to savoring this dessert while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Serving & Storage
Serving Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
– Once the Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is done baking, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
– For serving, you can top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
– Pair the cake with a hot cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage Tips for Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
– To store any leftover Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual slices to an airtight container and refrigerate.
– The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days while maintaining its freshness and flavor.
– If you wish to freeze the cake for longer storage, wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. The cake can be frozen for up to 1-2 months.
– To thaw a frozen Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, place it in the refrigerator overnight before allowing it to come to room temperature before serving to preserve its taste and texture.
Variations
Fruit Variations
– Swap the lemon pie filling with cherry, blueberry, or apple for a different fruity twist.
– Try using fresh berries or sliced peaches in place of canned fruit for a more natural flavor.
Topping Variations
– Experiment with different cake mixes such as yellow cake mix, spice cake mix, or chocolate cake mix for unique flavor combinations.
– Add a crunchy texture by sprinkling chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
FAQs with most people commonly asked questions
1. Can I use a different fruit instead of lemon in this recipe?
You can definitely try using different fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or peaches to customize the flavor of your dump cake. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of fruit you choose.
2. Can I substitute the cream cheese with another ingredient?
While cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the dump cake, you can experiment with alternatives like mascarpone or Greek yogurt. However, the taste and consistency of the final dish may differ from the original recipe.
When making substitutions, it’s important to consider the impact on the overall flavor and texture of the dessert. Play around with different ingredients to find the combination that suits your preferences.
If you have any other questions or concerns about making this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake recipe, feel free to reach out for more tips and suggestions. Enjoy baking this delicious treat!
Conclusion
The Perfect Combination of Tangy and Sweet
Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that strikes the perfect balance between tangy lemon flavor and creamy sweetness. The zesty lemon creates a refreshing contrast to the rich cream cheese, offering a burst of citrusy goodness in every bite. This unique combination is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Indulging in this easy-to-make dump cake allows you to experience a symphony of flavors with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for both casual gatherings and formal events. The simplicity of the recipe, paired with the complexity of flavors, is bound to impress your guests and make you the star of any occasion.
A Versatile Treat for All Occasions
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a winter holiday gathering, or simply craving a decadent dessert, Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake fits the bill perfectly. The versatility of this dessert allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings like fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
In conclusion, Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds – tangy lemon freshness and creamy indulgence. Try this recipe today and treat yourself to a mouthwatering dessert experience that is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.