Name: Dump Cake Recipes – 3 Ingredient Lemon Dump Cake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 box lemon cake mix; 1 can lemon pie filling; 1 stick butter, melted

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Let me tell you, this lemon dump cake is one of those recipes that feels almost too easy, but the results will have people thinking you’ve been baking all afternoon. I first made it on a Sunday when I wanted something sweet without turning the kitchen into a disaster. Three ingredients later, and suddenly my whole house smelled like a bakery that specialized in sunshine. This is one of those dump cake recipes that’s so versatile, you can swap flavors or keep it classic with lemon. I’ve tried versions of strawberry dump cake recipes and they’re lovely, but the lemon has that balance of tart and sweet that wakes up your taste buds. It’s probably the best lemon cake recipe I’ve put together without measuring a dozen things. It’s also one of my favorite lemon cake mix recipes because you just let the mix do the heavy lifting while you take the compliments. If you love an easy lemon pound cake recipe but don’t feel like waiting around for the oven timer while juggling a bunch of steps, this cake will win you over. It’s the kind of cake mix dump cake that goes from pantry to plate in less than an hour, and honestly, it’s hard not to sneak a bite while it’s cooling. Trust me, you’ll want this one in your back pocket for last-minute guests or when your sweet tooth shows up unannounced.

1) Key Takeaways
2) Easy 3 Ingredient Lemon Dump Cake Recipe
3) Ingredients for 3 Ingredient Lemon Dump Cake
4) How to Make 3 Ingredient Lemon Dump Cake
5) Tips for Making 3 Ingredient Lemon Dump Cake
6) Making 3 Ingredient Lemon Dump Cake Ahead of Time
7) Storing Leftover Lemon Dump Cake
8) Try these Dessert Recipes next!
9) 3 Ingredient Lemon Dump Cake
10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

This recipe needs only three ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
The lemon flavor gives the cake a sweet and tart balance that feels refreshing.
It is quick to prepare and doesn’t leave a pile of dishes behind.
Perfect to serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra comfort.

2) Easy 3 Ingredient Lemon Dump Cake Recipe

When life feels too busy and you crave dessert, a simple recipe like this one can save the day. I have made many dump cake recipes over the years, but this lemon one always earns a special place at the table. There is no long prep list, no complicated steps, and no stress. The three ingredients come together so quickly that you almost wonder if you missed something. You didn’t. It is just that easy.

What makes it shine is how well the tart lemon balances the sweet filling. That combination reminds me of summer afternoons when you want something light but still indulgent. Each spoonful carries that bright, citrus taste wrapped in buttery richness. The simplicity is what makes it timeless. Recipes like these prove you don’t always need dozens of ingredients to create something wonderful.

It is comfort food at its best, dressed up with very little effort. A dessert that feels homemade without taking all your energy. We all need a recipe like this ready for those moments when sugar cravings strike out of nowhere.

3) Ingredients for 3 Ingredient Lemon Dump Cake

1 box lemon cake mix: This mix forms the base of the cake and adds the signature lemon flavor. It brings sweetness and structure without any measuring or mixing hassle.

1 can lemon pie filling: Smooth and tangy, this pie filling adds body and a burst of citrus. It spreads easily in the pan and bakes into a gooey layer that pairs perfectly with the cake mix.

1 stick butter, melted: Butter ties the whole recipe together. It moistens the cake mix, adds richness, and helps the top bake into a golden crust that smells irresistible.

4) How to Make 3 Ingredient Lemon Dump Cake

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step keeps the cake from sticking and sets the stage for even baking.

Step 2. Spread the lemon pie filling across the bottom of the dish. It creates a sweet, tangy layer that will bubble as it bakes.

Step 3. Sprinkle the dry lemon cake mix evenly over the filling. No stirring needed, just let it sit as the top layer.

Step 4. Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix. The butter seeps through and brings everything together while baking.

Step 5. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the edges bubble. The smell alone will tell you it’s ready.

Step 6. Let it cool slightly, then serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

5) Tips for Making 3 Ingredient Lemon Dump Cake

One of my best tricks is to spread the butter as evenly as possible. It helps the top bake evenly without leaving dry spots. If you prefer more crunch, add chopped nuts or shredded coconut before baking. They create a nice contrast against the soft filling.

I have tested this recipe with different pie fillings too. Strawberry dump cake recipes taste great, but lemon always feels fresher. If you ever want to switch it up, cherry or blueberry fillings also work well. Each version brings a new twist while still keeping the simplicity of cake mix dump cake recipes.

When I serve it for guests, I like to add a dusting of powdered sugar right before bringing it to the table. It adds a little charm and makes the dessert look like it came from a bakery, even though it was made in less than an hour.

6) Making 3 Ingredient Lemon Dump Cake Ahead of Time

This cake holds up surprisingly well if baked a few hours ahead. I often make it in the morning if I know people will stop by in the evening. The flavors settle, and the texture stays soft. When reheated, the lemon taste feels even brighter. A quick warm-up in the oven brings back the crisp topping.

If you want to prep even earlier, you can assemble the layers in the dish and cover it in the fridge. Just wait to bake it until you need it. That way, you get the same freshness without the last-minute rush. Guests walk in, and within forty minutes, you pull out a golden cake that feels effortless.

It is the kind of dessert that fits well into busy schedules. You can balance your time without giving up the chance to serve a homemade sweet treat.

7) Storing Leftover Lemon Dump Cake

If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to four days in the fridge. I like to reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds before eating. The warmth brings back the buttery smell that fills the kitchen again.

Another option is freezing. Cut the cake into portions and wrap each piece in plastic. Place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you crave a slice, thaw and warm it up. It tastes almost as good as the day it was baked. Sweet cravings don’t always wait for baking time, so having a few frozen pieces is a handy trick.

Whether fresh or frozen, the flavor remains comforting. A simple cake that continues to give long after the first serving.

8) Try these Dessert Recipes next!

9) 3 Ingredient Lemon Dump Cake