Easy 4 Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake
This Easy 4 Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the ultimate fuss-free dessert With tangy lemon, creamy layers, and buttery crumble, it’s a bright and refreshing treat perfect for spring, summer, or any occasion. Made with just four simple ingredients, this dump cake is easy, quick, and absolutely irresistible. Serve it warm with ice cream or chilled for a crowd-pleasing favorite!
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 box lemon cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 1 package instant lemon pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1 cup water or lemon soda (for extra effervescence and sweetness)
Optional add-ins:
- Lemon zest or fresh lemon juice (for extra brightness)
- Powdered sugar or whipped cream for topping
- Fresh berries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or spray a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Layer the dry ingredients: Evenly sprinkle the lemon cake mix over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the instant lemon pudding mix evenly on top.
- Add cream cheese: Drop dollops of softened cream cheese evenly over the dry mixes. Don’t spread it; it will swirl during baking.
- Pour liquid: Slowly pour water or lemon soda evenly over the entire dish to moisten the cake mix.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay).
- Cool: Let the cake cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. It can be served warm or chilled.
- Optional: Garnish with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh berries if desired.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier dolloping and better texture.
- For a tangier punch, add fresh lemon zest or a tablespoon of lemon juice to the cake mix before baking.
- If you want a richer cake, try substituting lemon soda with sparkling water and adding a little sugar or honey.
- To keep leftovers moist, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the fridge.
- This cake is versatile — try adding fresh berries into the layers or topping with a lemon glaze for extra flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and a dairy-free pudding mix if available.