Lemon Dump Cake (Easy, Bright & 3-Ingredient Dessert)

This lemon dump cake is one of the easiest desserts you can make — bright, buttery, and packed with sweet-tangy lemon flavor. With just a few simple ingredients layered together and baked until golden, it creates a soft, gooey filling with a lightly crisp, buttery topping.

If you love effortless desserts like Lemon Icebox Cake, classic citrus treats like Lemon Bars, or bakery-style favorites like Lemon Loaf Cake, this easy lemon dessert is a must-try. You can also explore the Dessert Recipes collection for more quick, cozy sweets.

Why You’ll Love This

• Only 3 ingredients (super simple)

• No mixing required — just layer and bake

• Bright lemon flavor with a buttery topping

• Perfect last-minute dessert

• Great for potlucks, gatherings, or weeknights

Recipe Card

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 40–45 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

• Servings: 9

Nutrition Information

(per serving)

• Calories: 300

• Protein: 3g

• Carbohydrates: 40g

• Fat: 14g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 26g

Ingredients

• 1 box lemon cake mix (15.25 oz / 432 g)

• 1 (21 oz) can lemon pie filling (595 g)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (115 g)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch (23x23 cm) baking dish.

2. Add filling

   Spread lemon pie filling evenly in the bottom of the dish.

3. Add cake mix

   Sprinkle dry cake mix evenly over the filling (do not mix).

4. Add butter

   Drizzle melted butter evenly over the top.

5. Bake

   Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden and bubbly.

6. Cool slightly

   Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Add blueberries or strawberries for a lemon berry version

• Use white or vanilla cake mix for a milder flavor

• Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

• Make it extra rich with cream cheese dollops

• Ensure butter covers most of the dry mix for even baking

Make-Ahead & Storage

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving if desired.

FAQ

Why is my dump cake powdery?

The butter didn’t fully cover the cake mix — try spreading it more evenly.

Can I mix the ingredients?

No — the layering is what creates the texture.

Can I use fresh lemon filling?

Yes, but canned is easiest and most consistent.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Dump Cake is the ultimate easy dessert — bright, buttery, and incredibly simple to make. It’s perfect when you want something homemade without the effort, and it always delivers that cozy, crowd-pleasing flavor.

If you’re building your lemon dessert lineup, try Lemon Berry Trifle or Lemon Ricotta Bundt Cakes next for more easy, high-performing recipes.