Description

This Cream Cheese Lemon Dessert is a delightful, tangy treat combining the zesty brightness of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese. Featuring a lemon cake base topped with a smooth lemon-cream cheese layer, this dessert is perfect for gatherings or a refreshing finish to any meal. Baked to golden perfection and finished with a fresh lemon juice drizzle, it offers a luscious, balanced flavor that lemon lovers will adore.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Lemon Cake Base

1 package lemon cake mix
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 egg

For the Cream Cheese Topping

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Finishing Touch

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for topping)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking your dessert.
Prepare the lemon cake dough: In a medium bowl, mix the lemon cake mix, melted butter, and egg until a homogeneous dough forms, which will serve as the base layer.
Press dough into the pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then evenly press the prepared cake dough into the bottom, creating a firm, even crust layer.
Make the cream cheese mixture: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy, free of lumps.
Spread topping over dough: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the lemon cake base in the baking dish, making sure to cover it completely for a consistent texture.
Bake the dessert: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and add finishing touch: Allow the dessert to cool fully to set. Once cool, drizzle the fresh 2 tablespoons lemon juice over the top to enhance the lemon flavor and add a fresh tangy finish.
Serve: Slice the dessert into 12 squares and serve, enjoying the creamy, tangy blend of lemon and cream cheese in every bite.

Notes

Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother topping.
Press the dough firmly into the pan to avoid a crumbly base.
Cool the dessert completely before drizzling lemon juice to prevent it from soaking too quickly and making the base soggy.
You can garnish with lemon slices or zest for added presentation if desired.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.