This Lemon Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy zest of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese, all layered over a buttery crumb base. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is easy to make yet impressively flavorful. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a sweet treat with your afternoon tea, this cake is sure to become a favorite. The optional dusting of powdered sugar or pairing with vanilla ice cream adds an extra touch of indulgence.
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Lemon Cream Cheese Crumb Cake
Ingredients
– 1 box yellow cake mix (or lemon cake mix for extra lemon flavor)
– ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1.5 to 2 cans (21 oz) lemon pie filling
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Bottom Cake Layer: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with melted butter. Mix until crumbly. Spread about half of the mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing it down lightly to create a base.
3. Add the Lemon Filling: Spread 1.5 to 2 cans of lemon pie filling over the cake mix base, ensuring it’s evenly distributed for a burst of lemony flavor in every bite.
4. Make the Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. Spoon or spread this mixture over the lemon pie filling, creating a creamy layer.
5. Top with Remaining Cake Mix: Sprinkle the remaining cake mix mixture over the cream cheese layer. It doesn’t need to cover the cheese layer completely—the crumble effect adds texture and a rustic look.
6. Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. The cake is ready when the cream cheese layer is set and no longer jiggly.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool for at least 45 minutes before slicing. The layers will firm up as it cools. Dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness, or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a complete dessert experience.
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Note
For a more intense lemon flavor, use lemon cake mix instead of yellow cake mix. You can also adjust the amount of lemon pie filling based on your preference for tartness. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
– Calories: 350-400
– Fat: 18-20g
– Carbohydrates: 45-50g
– Protein: 4-5g
– Sugar: 30-35g
Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
This Lemon Cream Cheese Crumb Cake is a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and creamy flavors, making it an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Its simple preparation and stunning layers make it a crowd-pleaser, while the optional toppings allow for customization to suit your taste. Whether you’re a lemon lover or just looking for a delicious dessert to share, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy every bite of this delightful treat! 🍋🍰
