Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake Recipe

Introduction:

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is an easy, delicious dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. It’s a perfect dessert for busy days or when you want a sweet treat without too much preparation. This cake has a tangy lemon flavor, creamy texture, and a buttery, crumbly topping. It’s a crowd-pleaser, whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled for a refreshing snack.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box lemon cake mix (or yellow cake mix with lemon zest)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for extra lemon flavor)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded coconut (optional)
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or walnuts)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Base:

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.
2. Mix the Cream Cheese and Condensed Milk: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend them until smooth.
3. Add the Cake Mix: Slowly fold in the lemon cake mix, mixing until everything is combined and the batter is smooth. Add in the vanilla extract and lemon juice if you’re using it.
4. Pour the Mixture into the Baking Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.

2. Add the Topping:

1. Prepare the Topping: Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mixture. Do not stir.
2. Add Coconut and Nuts (optional): Sprinkle the shredded coconut and chopped nuts over the cake, if desired. These add texture and additional flavor.

3. Bake:

1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. The top should be golden and slightly crispy, and the cake should be set in the center. You can check the cake by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

4. Cool and Serve:

1. Cool: Let the cake cool slightly before serving, though it’s also delicious served warm. If you want a more refreshing taste, let it chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours.
2. Serve: Slice and serve as-is, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for extra indulgence!

History:

Dump cakes, a simple and popular American dessert, gained popularity in the 1980s. The name “dump cake” comes from the method of making it: you literally “dump” all the ingredients into the pan without mixing. The combination of a cake mix and canned fruit or cream cheese makes it an easy, fuss-free dessert. This particular version uses lemon to add a fresh, citrusy twist to the traditional dump cake, making it an ideal dessert for summer or citrus lovers.

Benefits:

• Quick and Easy: Dump cakes are incredibly simple to make, requiring no complicated steps or ingredients. It’s perfect for beginners or those short on time.
• Versatile: You can customize this cake by adding your favorite fruit, nuts, or even swapping the lemon cake mix for another flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of creamy, tangy lemon and sweet cake is sure to please guests at any occasion.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 350-400 (depending on portion size and additional toppings)
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sugar: 30g

(Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes.)

Conclusion:

Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a wonderfully simple yet indulgent dessert. With the tang of lemon and the creaminess of the cream cheese, it offers a perfect balance of flavors. The cake comes together easily and quickly, making it a great choice for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers. Whether served warm or chilled, this dessert will leave everyone coming back for more.

Lovers of Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake will appreciate:

• The sweet and tangy lemon flavor that’s perfect for any season.
• How easy and quick the recipe is, with no need for complicated ingredients or methods.
• The versatility to add your own twist, whether with coconut, nuts, or extra lemon zest.

Enjoy this delicious dessert with family and friends – it’s sure to be a hit every time!