The Neiman Marcus Cake is the perfect mix of simple and indulgent. Its rich cream cheese topping and buttery crust make it a favorite for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks. This easy-to-make dessert is as impressive as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Neiman Marcus Cake
- Quick and Easy: No need for advanced baking skills—this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
- Rich and Creamy: The contrast between the buttery crust and the velvety topping is pure perfection.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration.
- Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences, making it truly yours.
Ingredients for Neiman Marcus cake
Yellow Cake Mix
The base of this recipe starts with a boxed yellow cake mix, providing convenience and consistent flavor. While you can experiment with other cake mix flavors, the yellow cake mix offers a buttery, neutral foundation that pairs perfectly with the creamy topping.
Butter
Butter adds richness and moisture to the crust layer. Opt for unsalted butter to have better control over the salt content in the recipe. If you only have salted butter, reduce the additional salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Eggs
Eggs play a dual role here. One egg is mixed into the crust to bind the ingredients, while the remaining two eggs are blended into the cream cheese topping to create a silky, custard-like texture. For the best results, use large eggs that are at room temperature.
Chopped Nuts
Adding nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, gives the crust layer a delightful crunch. Feel free to leave them out if you prefer a smooth texture or substitute them with your favorite nuts for a personalized touch.
Cream Cheese
Softened cream cheese forms the base of the rich and tangy topping. To achieve the creamiest texture, opt for full-fat cream cheese. Be sure to let it come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cream cheese layer, adding a warm and aromatic note. Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste, but imitation vanilla works in a pinch.
Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar sweetens the cream cheese mixture, creating a smooth and luscious topping. Sift the sugar beforehand to ensure a lump-free texture.
How to Make Neiman Marcus Cake
Here’s the step-by-step process to help you whip up this decadent dessert:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, egg, and chopped nuts. Mix until well combined.
- Press this mixture evenly into an ungreased 9×13-inch baking dish, creating a firm base layer.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Topping
- Beat the softened cream cheese in a separate bowl until it becomes smooth.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Mix until the topping is creamy and well-blended.
- Evenly spread the mixture over the prepared crust.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
- Place the baking dish in the oven that has been preheated and bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
- You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are golden and the center is slightly set.
- Take it out of the oven and allow it to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Expert Tips for Neiman Marcus Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a silky-smooth topping.
- Don’t Overbake: The center should remain slightly gooey—it will firm up as it cools.
- Parchment Paper Hack: Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner slices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: This can result in a lumpy topping. Always allow it to soften before mixing.
- Skipping the Nuts: While optional, nuts add a delightful crunch to the base layer, elevating the overall texture.
- Overmixing the Crust: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense and tough base.
Variations to Try for Neiman Marcus Cake
While the classic Neiman Marcus Cake is already a crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to make it uniquely yours. By swapping a few ingredients or adding new flavors, you can elevate this dessert for different occasions and preferences.
Chocolate Lovers’ Dream
For those who can’t resist a little extra chocolate, this variation is sure to satisfy your cravings. Simply substitute the yellow cake mix with a chocolate cake mix for the crust. This will give the base a rich, chocolatey flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy topping. To take it even further, fold in mini chocolate chips or chunks into the cream cheese layer for added texture and bursts of melted chocolate. This twist creates an irresistible, decadent dessert that’s perfect for any chocolate lover!
Citrus Twist
Add a zesty and refreshing twist to the Neiman Marcus Cake by replacing the vanilla extract with lemon or orange extract. This citrus variation brightens up the flavor profile and is ideal for spring and summer gatherings. You can also incorporate a bit of fresh lemon or orange zest into the cream cheese topping for an extra burst of citrus flavor. This tangy update makes the cake feel light and refreshing, without losing its indulgent charm.
Holiday-Inspired Spice
Transform your Neiman Marcus Cake into a cozy, holiday treat by adding a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the crust mixture. These warm spices instantly bring a festive, comforting flavor that’s perfect for fall and winter celebrations. You can also sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top of the cake just before baking for an added touch of sweetness and spice. This variation brings out the warm, nostalgic feelings of the holidays, making it perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any seasonal gathering.
Serving Suggestions for Neiman Marcus Cake
Elevate your Neiman Marcus Cake experience with these delightful serving ideas. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or indulging in a quiet moment at home, these suggestions will take your dessert to the next level.
Classic Presentation
For an elegant and timeless look, simply dust the top of your cake with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar. This effortless touch enhances the visual appeal while adding a subtle sweetness that complements the rich flavors of the cake. Perfect for dinner parties or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
Warm and Decadent
Take indulgence to new heights by serving your cake slightly warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream on the side. The warmth of the cake melts the ice cream slightly, creating a luscious contrast of textures that’s impossible to resist.
Coffee Pairing
Pair your Neiman Marcus Cake with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a shot of espresso for a cozy, café-style treat. The rich, creamy topping and buttery crust complement the bold flavors of coffee beautifully, making it the perfect way to start your morning or wind down in the evening.
How to Store Neiman Marcus Cake
Proper storage is key to maintaining the fresh, indulgent flavor and texture of your Neiman Marcus Cake. Whether you’re saving leftovers or planning ahead, here’s how to keep your cake delicious for days—or even months.
Refrigeration
If you have leftover slices or plan to enjoy the cake within a few days, refrigeration is the best option. Place the cake in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in your fridge. The cream cheese topping, in particular, benefits from being chilled, as it becomes even richer and more flavorful over time. Stored correctly, your Neiman Marcus Cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezing
Want to make your cake last even longer? Freezing is a great solution. To freeze individual slices, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap to protect it from freezer burn. Next, store the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method ensures that you can grab a single serving whenever you’re in the mood for a sweet treat.
The cake can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months while maintaining its flavor and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply remove a slice from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour. For a quicker option, you can also defrost it in the fridge overnight.
FAQs About Neiman Marcus Cake
Is it possible to use a different cake mix for the crust?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is traditional, chocolate, spice, or even red velvet cake mixes work wonderfully.
Is it necessary to use nuts in the crust?
Not at all. If you’d like to make it nut-free, just leave them out. The crust will still be delicious.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare it the day before and refrigerate it—it tastes even better as the flavors meld.
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Neiman marcus cake recipe
Ingredients
For the Base Layer:
- 1 box 18 oz yellow cake mix
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
For the Creamy Topping:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 lb powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine yellow cake mix, melted butter, an egg, and chopped nuts. Mix well, then press the mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish to form a firm base.
- Make the Cream Cheese Topping: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar, then mix until creamy. Spread this mixture evenly over the prepared crust.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes until the edges are golden and the center is slightly set. Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into squares.