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Lemon Dump Cake

Lemon Dump Cake

Lemon Dump Cake is a simple and delightful dessert featuring a tangy lemon filling layered under a moist, fluffy yellow cake mix topped with melted butter and optional nuts or coconut. With minimal preparation and baking, it delivers a bright citrus flavor balanced by a sweet, buttery crust suitable for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (about 21 ounces) canned lemon pie filling
  • 1 package yellow cake mix (about 15.25 ounces)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts recommended)
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut flakes
  • Powdered sugar or lemon icing for dusting or drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare your baking dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the cake doesn’t stick and for easy cleanup.
  2. Spread the lemon filling: Spoon the canned lemon pie filling evenly into the bottom of the dish, smoothing with a spatula to create a uniform lemon base layer.
  3. Add the dry cake mix: Sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix evenly over the lemon filling, covering it completely without pressing down.
  4. Pour melted butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix layer, ensuring as much surface area as possible is covered. This will melt into the mix and form a golden, buttery crust when baked.
  5. Add optional toppings: Evenly sprinkle chopped nuts or shredded coconut flakes over the top if desired for added texture and flavor.
  6. Bake until golden and bubbly: Place the dish in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the lemon filling bubbles around the edges.
  7. Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing to help it set and hold its shape. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle lemon icing before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter for even melting and to prevent uneven browning.
  • Do not press down the cake mix; leaving it loose creates a light, crumbly crust.
  • Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing for better texture and shape retention.
  • Choose quality canned lemon filling or use homemade lemon curd for enhanced flavor.
  • Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the lemon filling for extra depth if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon dump cake, easy lemon dessert, citrus cake, dump cake recipe, gluten free lemon cake, quick lemon dessert