The Ultimate Lemon Dump Cake Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Guaranteed to Impress
Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly delicious dessert that requires minimal effort? Look no further than this lemon dump cake recipe! This easy-to-make treat is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Forget complicated baking techniques – this recipe is all about convenience and delightful flavor.
Why This Lemon Dump Cake Recipe is the Best
This isn't just any lemon dump cake; it's the ultimate version. Here's why:
- Simplicity: The name says it all! This recipe involves minimal prep and requires no fancy baking skills. It's perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
- Delicious Flavor: The bright, zesty lemon flavor combined with the moist, buttery cake is a match made in heaven. It's the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different lemon variations. Add lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor, or substitute some of the sugar with lemon curd for a richer, tangier taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This cake is always a hit! It's incredibly versatile, appealing to a wide range of palates.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it easy to whip up on short notice.
- For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- For the Lemon Topping:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to bake the perfect lemon dump cake:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Combine Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, sour cream, eggs, and oil. Mix until just combined – don't overmix!
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Make the Lemon Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the water and lemon juice, whisking until smooth.
- Pour Topping Over Batter: Pour the lemon topping evenly over the cake batter. Don't worry about mixing it in.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let the cake cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement!
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Dump Cake:
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Using freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a significant difference in the flavor.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the cake batter can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Baking Time: Oven temperatures vary, so keep an eye on your cake and adjust baking time as needed.
- Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Blueberry Lemon Dump Cake: Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the cake batter.
- Raspberry Lemon Dump Cake: Substitute raspberries for blueberries.
- Lemon Poppy Seed Dump Cake: Add 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds to the cake batter.
This lemon dump cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity and incredible flavor make it a perfect dessert for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and get baking! Enjoy!
