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Easy Lemon Dump Cake

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Bright, sunny, and effortlessly delicious, this Lemon Dump Cake brings a burst of citrus to your dessert table. It’s one of those comforting recipes that feels nostalgic, yet never fails to impress with its sweet, tangy flavor and buttery golden topping. Whether you use a can of lemon pie filling or go the extra mile with homemade lemon curd, the result is always luscious and satisfying.

This recipe is perfect when you’re short on time but still want to make something that feels special. The texture is a beautiful mix of soft, gooey filling and golden, slightly crisp cake mix on top. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a simple dessert that feels like sunshine on a spoon.

If you’re craving a twist, try it with a white or lemon cake mix. The lemon mix enhances the citrusy kick, while the white cake version offers a more mellow balance. Either way, this dessert delivers bright flavor and effortless joy.

It’s easy to prepare, even easier to love, and always one of the first dishes to disappear at gatherings. Keep a few cans of pie filling and a box of cake mix in your pantry, and you’ll always be ready to whip up this zesty little wonder whenever the mood strikes.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (21 oz) can lemon pie filling or 1 1/2 cups lemon curd

1 box white cake mix or lemon cake mix

1 1/2 stick (3/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted

Optional: zest of 1 lemon (for added brightness)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. Spread lemon pie filling or lemon curd evenly over the bottom of the dish.

  3. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the lemon layer.

  4. Drizzle melted butter evenly across the top of the cake mix, covering as much surface as possible.

  5. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling at the edges.

  6. Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or chilled.

Notes

  • Lemon Filling Options: You can use lemon pie filling for a more tart, custard-like texture, or lemon curd for a silkier, richer result.

      • White cake mix gives a mellow, sweet base that highlights the lemon flavor.

      • Lemon cake mix intensifies the citrus punch—ideal for die-hard lemon lovers.

  • Add fresh lemon zest to enhance brightness and aroma.

  • Top with whipped cream, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of lemon glaze for a gourmet touch.

  • Lavender buds or a sprig of mint make an elegant garnish.

 

The dump cake rule is using 1 stick of butter (1/2 cup) is the minimum to create that golden, crisp topping, but sometimes it can leave dry patches if not evenly distributed.  I increase the butter for a more richer, more buttery topping and better coverage.  Here are some options to improve coverage should you go with the standard 1 stick:

  • Slice cold butter thinly and lay over the cake mix instead of drizzling melted butter — this can create more even coverage.

  • Combine melted butter with a bit of milk or lemon juice (2–3 tablespoons) before drizzling to stretch it without losing moisture.

  • Spritz with cooking spray or lightly mist with water before baking to help the dry areas bake more evenly if sticking with 1 stick.

 

Bring sunshine to your dessert table with this cheerful lemony treat! Try it with lemon curd for a luxe twist 🍋✨ Don’t forget to share your slice of joy and tag us—your kitchen deserves a little zest! 💙 #JoyistaBakes

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice

Nutrition

Find it online: https://joyistalife.com/recipe/easy-lemon-dump-cake/