### **4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake**
#### **Introduction**
A 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is a quick, easy, and delicious dessert that brings together the tang of lemon, the richness of cream cheese, and the comfort of cake. This no-fuss recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a delightful treat without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser, offering the ideal balance of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors.
#### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
Dump cakes are a beloved American dessert, particularly popular in Southern and Midwest kitchens. The name “dump cake” refers to the straightforward process of “dumping” the ingredients into a pan and letting them bake together. These cakes gained popularity in the 1970s due to their simplicity and use of pantry staples like cake mix. The lemon and cream cheese variation adds a refreshing, creamy twist, and the use of just four ingredients makes it an ideal dessert for casual gatherings or last-minute baking.
#### **Ingredients and Quantities**
To make this 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake, you will need the following:
– 1 box of lemon cake mix (approximately 15.25 oz)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
#### **Optional Additions**
– Fresh lemon zest or lemon juice for an extra burst of citrus
– A handful of blueberries or raspberries for added flavor and color
– Powdered sugar for dusting once baked
– Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
#### **Tips for Success**
1. **Even Distribution:** Spread the cream cheese evenly over the cake mix to ensure it melts into the cake, creating a rich, creamy texture.
2. **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Allow the cream cheese and butter to soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
3. **Crispier Top:** For a more golden, crispy top, consider adding a sprinkle of sugar over the cake mix before baking.
4. **Serving Suggestions:** Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the tartness of the lemon.
#### **Instructions**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. **Layer Ingredients:** In the baking dish, spread the lemon pie filling evenly on the bottom. Cut the softened cream cheese into small chunks and scatter it over the pie filling.
3. **Add Cake Mix:** Sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the top of the cream cheese. Do not mix; just let the cake mix sit on top.
4. **Pour Butter:** Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the cake mix.
5. **Bake:** Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. **Cool and Serve:** Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream.
#### **Description**
This Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake combines the bright, tart flavor of lemon with the richness of cream cheese and the comforting sweetness of a cake mix. As it bakes, the cream cheese melts into the cake, creating a gooey, creamy layer that contrasts perfectly with the crisp, golden topping. The result is a simple yet indulgent dessert that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
#### **Nutritional Information (per serving)**
*Note: The following values are approximate and based on 12 servings.*
– **Calories:** 300
– **Total Fat:** 16g
– **Saturated Fat:** 10g
– **Cholesterol:** 45mg
– **Sodium:** 300mg
– **Total Carbohydrates:** 40g
– **Dietary Fiber:** 1g
– **Sugars:** 25g
– **Protein:** 2g
#### **Conclusion**
The 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is the ultimate no-fuss dessert, combining minimal preparation with maximum flavor. The zesty lemon flavor, paired with the smooth cream cheese and cake mix, creates a dessert that is both rich and refreshing. It’s perfect for casual gatherings, potlucks, or when you need a quick sweet treat.
#### **Recommendation**
If you’re looking for a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert, the 4-Ingredient Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake is an excellent choice. It’s versatile, requiring only basic pantry ingredients, and can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or bringing it to a party, this dessert will surely impress.
#### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
While this dessert is indulgent, you can easily make it a bit lighter by opting for a reduced-fat cream cheese or using a sugar-free cake mix. Additionally, topping with fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt instead of whipped cream can offer a lighter, health-conscious twist without sacrificing flavor. Embrace the joy of simple, delicious treats that can fit into a balanced lifestyle!