Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a dessert that is both incredibly simple and downright delicious, you’ve just stumbled upon the best lemon dump cake recipe! Seriously, this cake is a dream come true for anyone who craves that bright, zesty flavor of lemon but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I just love how effortlessly this comes together—no fancy techniques or complicated steps. It’s all about layering the flavors and letting the oven do the magic! Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked on this easy lemon dump cake. Perfect for any occasion or just a sweet treat to brighten your day!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful lemon dump cake. It’s super straightforward, and I promise you won’t need to hunt for any fancy ingredients!
- 1 box lemon cake mix: This is the base of your cake and brings that lovely lemon flavor. Just grab a standard-sized box, and you’re good to go!
- 1 can lemon pie filling: This adds a luscious, tangy layer that’s absolutely irresistible. Make sure to choose a good quality filling for the best taste!
- 1 cup water: This helps to bring the cake mix to life. Just plain old tap water works perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: This adds richness and moisture. I always prefer unsalted so I can control the saltiness in my dessert.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: If you’re feeling extra sweet, this is for the optional glaze! It gives your cake that beautiful finish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal if you have it! This will enhance the lemon flavor in your glaze.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to enjoying a delightful lemon dessert in no time!
How to Prepare Instructions
Let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious lemon dump cake! I promise it’s as easy as pie, or should I say, cake? Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a slice in no time!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures your cake bakes evenly and gives it that lovely golden color. Trust me, a properly preheated oven is a game changer!
Prepare the Baking Dish
Next, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it well with some butter or cooking spray. This will help your cake slide right out when it’s done, making serving a breeze. We don’t want any cake left behind, right?
Layer the Lemon Pie Filling
Now, spread the lemon pie filling evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Take your time here to make sure it’s all level; this helps every bite have that delightful burst of lemon flavor!
Mix the Cake Base
In a separate bowl, mix the lemon cake mix with 1 cup of water until just combined. Don’t overmix, okay? A few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can make your cake tough, and we want it fluffy and light!
Assemble the Cake
Pour the cake batter over the lemon pie filling, ensuring it covers it completely. Then, drizzle the melted butter on top of the cake mix. This butter will create a golden crust as it bakes—yum!
Bake and Cool
Pop your dish into the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once it’s out, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps everything set nicely!
Optional Glaze
If you’re feeling fancy, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl to create a sweet glaze. Drizzle it over your cake before serving for an extra touch of sweetness. Totally optional but oh-so-delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly quick to make—ready in just 45 minutes!
- Super easy with minimal steps, perfect for beginner bakers.
- Deliciously flavorful with that bright lemon zing that everyone loves.
- Great for gatherings, potlucks, or simply a sweet treat at home.
- Versatile enough to serve warm or chilled, with or without glaze.
Tips for Success
Here are some handy tips to make sure your lemon dump cake turns out perfectly every time! First, take your time spreading the lemon pie filling evenly; this ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor. Also, remember not to overmix the cake batter—just mix until combined and leave those lumps; they’re your friends! If you want a beautiful golden crust, make sure to drizzle enough melted butter on top. And lastly, let the cake cool slightly before serving, as this helps it set and makes it easier to slice. You’ve got this!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional information for each slice of this delightful lemon dump cake. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients used, but generally, you can expect:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fiber: 1g
This cake is a sweet treat, so enjoy it in moderation, and savor every bite! Remember, these values are estimates to help you keep track of your indulgence.
FAQ Section
Can I use a different flavor of pie filling?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with lemon pie filling, you can definitely experiment with other flavors like cherry, blueberry, or peach. Just keep in mind that the taste will change, but it’s a fun way to mix things up!
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your lemon dump cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll last for about 3-4 days. Just remember to let it cool completely before sealing it up to avoid sogginess!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
You bet! This cake is perfect for making ahead. Just prepare it and bake it as usual, then let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge. You can serve it chilled or pop it in the oven for a quick warm-up before serving!
What can I serve with lemon dump cake?
This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh fruit like berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top also makes for a delightful addition!
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
Yes, this lemon dump cake is vegetarian-friendly! However, it does contain cake mix, so if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you might want to check for gluten-free cake mix varieties to enjoy this dessert without worry.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your lemon dump cake, the options are endless! I love serving it warm with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top—it’s like a cloud of sweetness! You can also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast to the bright lemon flavor. Fresh berries, like strawberries or blueberries, are a perfect touch, adding a pop of color and freshness. Trust me, these little extras will elevate your dessert experience to a whole new level!
For more delicious dessert ideas, check out lemon desserts that will brighten your day!
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Lemon Dump Cake: 5 Steps to Sweet Success!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious lemon dump cake that is easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 box lemon cake mix
- 1 can lemon pie filling
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly in the bottom of the dish.
- In a bowl, mix the lemon cake mix with water until just combined.
- Pour the cake mix over the lemon pie filling.
- Drizzle the melted butter on top of the cake mix.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice for a glaze and drizzle on top if desired.
Notes
- Make sure to spread the pie filling evenly for a consistent flavor.
- Do not overmix the cake batter.
- Let the cake cool slightly to set before serving.
- This cake pairs well with whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: lemon dump cake, easy dessert, lemon cake recipe
