What is a classic lemon dump cake?

A classic lemon dump cake is a simple, family-friendly dessert made by layering lemon pie filling, lemon cake mix, and melted butter in a pan. Variations include lemon cream cheese dump cake, lemon dump cake with condensed milk, or even old fashioned lemon dump cake versions, all designed for quick and easy preparation.

How many ingredients are needed for a lemon dump cake?

Depending on the recipe, a lemon dump cake can be made with as few as three ingredients for a quick 3-ingredient lemon dump cake, or four ingredients for a lemon cream cheese dump cake. Optional additions like sweetened condensed milk or lemon zest enhance flavor.

Can I make a lemon dump cake with cream cheese or condensed milk?

Yes, adding cream cheese creates a 4-ingredient lemon cream cheese dump cake, while sweetened condensed milk makes a rich and moist lemon dump cake with condensed milk. Both variations elevate the classic lemon dump cake recipe with creamy texture and extra flavor.

Are there old-fashioned lemon dump cake recipes?

Absolutely. Old fashioned lemon dump cake recipes use simple ingredients like lemon cake mix, lemon pie filling, and butter. Popular versions include the classic lemon dump cake with cake mix, old fashioned lemon cream cheese dump cake, and even recipes inspired by Jamie Oliver or Pioneer Woman.

Classic Lemon Dump Cake – Quick, Easy & Family-Friendly

Name: Classic Lemon Dump Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 12-16 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box lemon cake mix (approx. 15.25 oz); 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling; ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; Optional: 4 oz cream cheese (for lemon cream cheese dump cake); Optional: 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (for extra richness); Optional: ½ cup fresh lemon juice or zest for more tang

Description

A simple, zesty, and moist dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Made by “dumping” a few ingredients into a pan and baking, this classic lemon dump cake combines the tang of lemon with a soft, buttery cake topping. Great for quick family desserts, brunches, or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one 9×13-inch pan):

For the Cake:

1 box lemon cake mix (approx. 15.25 oz)
1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Optional Add-ins / Variations:

4 oz cream cheese (for lemon cream cheese dump cake)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (for extra richness)
½ cup fresh lemon juice or zest for more tang

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Oven & Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

Step 2: Layer Ingredients
Spread the lemon pie filling evenly in the pan.
Sprinkle the lemon cake mix over the filling in an even layer.
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top. If using cream cheese, dollop small pieces across the cake before baking.

Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.

Step 4: Cool & Serve
Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, top with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh berries for extra flair.

Notes

For a creamier version: Mix cream cheese into the pie filling before layering.
Condensed milk variation: Pour over cake mix before baking for a richer, gooier texture.
Serving: Best served slightly warm, though it can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Category: Dessert / Quick Cake
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American