Mixed Berry Lemon Dump Cake
This Mixed Berry Lemon Dump Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of mixed berries with the refreshing zing of lemon. It’s simple to make and perfect for any family gathering or celebration.
- Author: Layla
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35-40 mins
- Total Time: 36 minute
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen, such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of berries)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly throughout. If you skip this step, the cake might not rise properly.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Proper greasing prevents the cake from sticking and makes for easier serving.
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed berries, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Gently toss to coat the berries evenly without mashing them. Set aside for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Pour the berry mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading them evenly across the bottom. You want an even layer to ensure every slice has berries.
- In a separate bowl, mix the white cake mix, sugar (if using), and salt together. This helps distribute the flavors evenly.
- Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the berry layer in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out gently but do not mix it with the berries.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cake mix, covering it as evenly as possible. This is what creates that crispy top; don’t skimp on the butter!
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The cake is done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the cake to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit, making it easier to cut into squares.
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. The contrast of hot cake and cold ice cream is simply divine!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: Don’t overmix the berries with lemon juice and zest. Use room temperature ingredients for even baking, and check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time.