Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that tastes indulgently rich yet is incredibly simple to make, the Neiman Marcus Cake is your new best friend. This luscious two-layer wonder boasts a tender, buttery cake base with a dreamy, creamy top layer of sweetened cream cheese that browns to perfection in the oven. Every bite melts in your mouth with a perfect balance of texture and flavor, making Neiman Marcus Cake a true crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want to impress without stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this cake is refreshingly straightforward, which means you can whip it up anytime without a big grocery trip. Each ingredient plays a vital role—whether it’s creating that soft, buttery base or lending the smooth, tangy sweetness that defines the Neiman Marcus Cake.

• Yellow or white cake mix: Forms the sturdy yet tender bottom layer; using a good-quality mix makes all the difference in texture.
• Melted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake base, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and help both layers rise beautifully.
• Cream cheese (room temperature): The star of the top layer, bringing creamy tang and a luscious finish.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese topping smoothly, helping it set nicely during baking.
• Vanilla extract: Provides warm aromatic notes that elevate the flavor profile without overpowering it.

How to Make Neiman Marcus Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and preparing a 9×13 inch pan with non-stick spray or foil to avoid sticking. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and eggs using a sturdy spoon. The mixture will be thick, almost like cookie dough—don’t worry, this is exactly what you want for the perfect base.

Step 2: Press the Cake Mixture

Using your fingers or a bench scraper, firmly press the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This creates the foundation for the creamy layer that will go on top, so make sure it’s well compacted and reaches all edges.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Topping

In a clean bowl, beat the cream cheese together with two cups of powdered sugar on low speed until smooth and lump-free. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing gently to combine before adding the remaining powdered sugar. Beat just until everything is blended—overworking can make this topping less creamy.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cream cheese topping over the cake base, spreading it carefully to reach all edges. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes until the topping sets, turns a beautiful golden brown, and pulls slightly away from the sides of the pan. Let the cake cool completely before cutting.

How to Serve Neiman Marcus Cake

Garnishes

While the Neiman Marcus Cake is stunning on its own, a light dusting of powdered sugar on top just before serving adds an elegant touch and a bit of extra sweetness. For a pop of color, fresh berries or a few mint leaves make a charming garnish that isn’t over the top.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, which both complement the creamy texture. For a fresher contrast, lightly sweetened fruit compote or sliced peaches can add a vibrant balance when serving family or friends.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your guests? Serve Neiman Marcus Cake in individual glass dessert cups layered with whipped cream or berry sauce for a modern twist. You can also cut the cake into bite-sized squares and present them on a decorative platter sprinkled with edible flowers for a special occasion feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your Neiman Marcus Cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container, and keep it refrigerated. It stays fresh and creamy up to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead treat to enjoy over several days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake if you want to save some for later. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture. The cream cheese layer might soften a bit but will still taste incredible.

Reheating

Though Neiman Marcus Cake is delicious chilled, if warm cake is your preference, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Avoid overheating, as the cream cheese topping might become too runny.

FAQs

Can I use another type of cake mix for Neiman Marcus Cake?

Yes! While yellow or white cake mix is traditional and yields the best flavor and texture, you can experiment with other flavors like butter or even pound cake mix for subtle variations.

Do I need to let the cream cheese come to room temperature?

Absolutely—softening the cream cheese at room temperature ensures it blends smoothly into the topping without lumps or graininess, giving that signature silky texture.

Can I double this recipe for a larger gathering?

Definitely. Just double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish, adjusting baking time as needed. Keep an eye on the cake as cream cheese layers may require extra time to set fully.

Is it possible to make Neiman Marcus Cake gluten-free?

Yes, by choosing a gluten-free cake mix, you can make a version suitable for gluten-sensitive guests while maintaining the same luscious layers this cake is loved for.

What’s the best way to cut the cake?

To get clean, neat squares, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts to prevent the cream cheese topping from sticking and tearing.

Final Thoughts

Neiman Marcus Cake is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves a balance of creamy sweetness and buttery cake with minimal fuss. Its irresistible charm lies in the simplicity of its ingredients and the richness of its flavor, making it a heartfelt favorite to share. Trust me, once you try this recipe, Neiman Marcus Cake will become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire too—happy baking!

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