Let me tell you, this cake is an absolute treat – the kind you’ll dream about long after the last crumb has disappeared. Rich, indulgent, and downright irresistible, Neiman Marcus Cake has all the hallmarks of a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll be hooked. Whether you’re planning a celebration or just want to spoil yourself (because you deserve it!), this cake is a winner. Ready to bake up some magic?
Why You’ll Love Neiman Marcus Cake
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, hosting a dinner party, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake fits the bill perfectly. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
Versatile: Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or a cozy night in. It’s the kind of dessert that works for any occasion, big or small.
Crowd-Pleasing: This cake’s gooey, buttery layers are a universal favorite. Everyone will be asking for the recipe, guaranteed.
Effortless Elegance: It looks and tastes like something from a fancy bakery, but it’s incredibly simple to make.
Ingredients in Neiman Marcus Cake
Here’s the magic behind this decadent dessert—it’s made with pantry staples, yet the results are nothing short of spectacular. Let’s break it down:
Yellow Cake Mix: The foundation of this cake. It provides that soft, moist texture we all love.
Butter: Adds richness and a hint of indulgence to every bite. Trust me, don’t skimp here!
Cream Cheese: The secret to the creamy, tangy topping that makes this cake so unforgettable.
Powdered Sugar: Sweet and silky, it blends beautifully into the topping for a smooth finish.
Eggs: Help bind everything together and create that perfectly gooey consistency.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of warmth and flavor that ties it all together.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this delectable masterpiece:
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly and to perfection.
Prepare Your Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Make the Base Layer: Combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one egg in a large mixing bowl. Mix until a soft dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Create the Topping: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, remaining eggs, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Assemble the Cake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set but still slightly gooey.
Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool completely before slicing. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut into those perfect squares.
How to Serve Neiman Marcus Cake
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can take it to the next level with a few serving suggestions:
Fresh Berries: Add a pop of color and tartness with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the rich cake.
Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Room Temperature Ingredients: Let the cream cheese and butter come to room temperature before using. This makes mixing easier and ensures a smooth texture.
Don’t Overbake: The center should remain slightly gooey. Overbaking can make the cake too firm.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s just as delicious chilled!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
A1: Absolutely! Try chocolate or butter pecan for a fun twist.
Q2: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
Q3: How do I know when the cake is done?
A3: The edges should be golden, and the center should jiggle slightly when you move the pan.
Q4: Can I freeze this cake?
A4: Yes! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this cake?
A5: Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or enjoy it cold from the fridge.
Q6: Can I add toppings like nuts or chocolate chips?
A6: Of course! Pecans, walnuts, or mini chocolate chips make great additions.
Q7: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A7: Yes, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix as a substitute.
Q8: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A8: Butter is recommended for the best flavor, but margarine can work in a pinch.
Q9: How do I prevent the topping from cracking?
A9: Avoid overbaking and let the cake cool slowly to prevent cracks.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes, use a larger pan or make two batches if you’re feeding a crowd.
Conclusion
Neiman Marcus Cake is more than just dessert—it’s an experience. With its gooey layers and irresistible flavor, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. So go ahead, give it a try, and prepare for the rave reviews. Happy baking!
Print
Neiman Marcus Cake
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich, gooey, and indulgent cake with a buttery base, creamy top, and a hint of crunch from the nuts. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 box cake mix (any flavor)
- 1 stick butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (16 oz) box powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and eggs until a thick batter forms.
- Add Nuts: Fold in the chopped nuts.
- Spread Batter: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and egg until smooth and creamy.
- Add Cream Cheese Layer: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly golden. The center should still be a bit soft to give the cake its rich, gooey texture.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing. Serve as is or top with a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Notes
- You can substitute the nuts with chocolate chips or leave them out if preferred.
- This cake has a gooey center, so it may look slightly underdone but will firm up as it cools.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg