Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually beat in the lightly whisked eggs and the lemon extract (if using) until the mixture is uniform and creamy.
- Evenly sprinkle the entire box of dry lemon cake mix across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Do not mix or stir.
- Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dry cake mix layer. Do not stir or disturb the dry layer below.
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire top surface of the cake mixture.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the edges are set and golden brown.
- Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing to ensure the filling is properly set. Serve warm or chilled.