There I was, standing in my kitchen, battling the frustrating urge for something sweet that wasn’t a heavy chain of fast food. That’s when I stumbled upon the magic of the Easy Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe. This Southern delight is not only incredibly simple to whip up, but it also serves as the ultimate comfort food—boasting a stunning gooey butter center that just melts in your mouth. With minimal effort required, you can impress friends and family with a bakery-quality dessert perfect for any occasion. The crackly top and creamy cream cheese layer echo the textures of a rich cheesecake, ensuring everyone will be coming back for seconds! Are you ready to transform your dessert game and delight your taste buds?
Why is Neiman Marcus Cake a Must-Try?
Gooey Goodness: This Easy Neiman Marcus Cake is the epitome of indulgence, delivering a velvety texture that melts in your mouth. It’s a unique twist on traditional desserts that everyone will rave about!
Time-Saving Delight: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a homemade treat that looks and tastes like it took hours to create. Your kitchen will soon smell heavenly!
Impressive Yet Simple: Don’t be fooled by its gourmet appearance; this recipe is so easy that even novice bakers can whip it up with confidence. It’s perfect for impressing guests without the stress!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of buttery cake and creamy cream cheese filling makes this dessert suitable for any gathering—be it a family potluck or a cozy dinner. For even more delicious options, check out our Tuna Fish Cake and Warm Caramel Cake recipes!
Versatile Variations: Feel free to personalize your cake! Add lemon zest for a tangy twist or swap pecans for walnuts to suit your taste. No matter how you serve it, the flavors are sure to delight!
Easy Neiman Marcus Cake Ingredients
• Here’s what you need for warm, gooey goodness!
For the Cake Base
- Yellow Cake Mix – Provides the structure and sweetness; for added depth, swap it for butter pecan cake mix.
- Butter – Must be melted to create richness; brushing additional melted butter on the pan adds a toffee-like crust.
- Egg – Binds ingredients together; using room temperature eggs helps with better incorporation.
- Chopped Pecans – Adds crunch and flavor; toasting them enhances their nuttiness.
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- Cream Cheese – Creates a rich, creamy layer; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese filling; sifting it helps prevent clumps for a smooth consistency.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; you can substitute almond extract for a different twist.
- Salt – Optional, but it balances out the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
Get ready to create a delicious and easy Neiman Marcus Cake that will surely become a family favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and generously grease it with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the cake from sticking. You want the pan well-coated so that the Easy Neiman Marcus Cake releases easily once baked.
Step 2: Make Base Layer
In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and one room temperature egg until a thick dough forms. This mixture should be slightly sticky. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, ensuring smooth coverage. Top it with the chopped pecans, distributing them evenly for delightful crunch in every bite.
Step 3: Prepare Cream Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in the sifted powdered sugar, ensuring no lumps remain. Then, add in two eggs and the vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is silky and well combined, creating the rich, creamy layer essential to the Easy Neiman Marcus Cake.
Step 4: Assemble Layers
Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the pressed cake base in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently spread the cream cheese layer evenly, covering the cake base completely. This layering creates the beautiful contrast in texture that makes the Easy Neiman Marcus Cake so irresistible.
Step 5: Bake & Cool
Place the assembled cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges turn a lovely golden brown and the center remains slightly jiggly. Once removed from the oven, allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature for at least 2 hours to ensure the layers set beautifully before cutting into squares.
Expert Tips for Easy Neiman Marcus Cake
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Butter Brushing Technique: For a unique toffee-like crust, brush the pressed cake layer with melted butter before adding chopped pecans to enhance texture.
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Cooling Time Matters: Let the cake cool completely before cutting. This helps the gooey cream cheese layer set properly, preventing runniness and ensuring perfect slices.
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Use Room Temperature Eggs: Incorporating room temperature eggs in the cream cheese layer blends ingredients more smoothly, yielding a richer and creamier filling for your Easy Neiman Marcus Cake.
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Sift Powdered Sugar: Sifting the powdered sugar before mixing prevents lumps in the cream cheese layer, which contributes to a smooth and silky texture.
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Cutting Technique: Wipe your knife clean between each cut to achieve neat squares. This keeps the layers distinct and presents your cake beautifully!
Easy Neiman Marcus Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful cake to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!
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Citrus Twist: Add lemon zest or substitute with lemon extract for a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens the rich cake.
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Nut Alternatives: Swap out chopped pecans for walnuts or almonds to give a new dimension to your cake’s crunch and flavor profile.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative along with coconut or almond milk to accommodate lactose intolerance without sacrificing taste.
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Chocolate Delight: Fold in chocolate chips to the cream cheese layer or use a chocolate cake mix for a decadent chocolate version of this gooey treat.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese filling for an extra layer of warmth, perfect for cozy gatherings.
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Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix for a delicious gluten-free dessert everyone can enjoy.
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Chocolate Swirl: Before baking, swirl in some melted chocolate into the cream cheese layer for a marbled effect that takes this cake to new chocolatey heights.
Explore various flavors and textures to find your family’s best-loved twist! For another delightful dessert, consider trying our Warm Caramel Cake or General Tso’s Chicken for your next dinner. Happy baking!
What to Serve with Easy Neiman Marcus Cake?
Indulging in a slice of this rich and gooey delight opens the door to a world of delightful pairings that enhance every bite.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool contrast complements the warm, gooey cake perfectly, providing a sumptuous harmony of flavors.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop adds lightness and freshness, elevating the rich cream cheese layer while giving it an airy touch.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries introduce a burst of tartness, striking a perfect balance against the sweetness of the cake. They’re like sunshine on a plate!
- Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee enhances the rich buttery flavor, making it a fabulous accompaniment for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over this cake creates a luscious, gooey topping that elevates each spoonful with a decadent sweetness.
- Chocolate Ganache: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of ganache adds depth and richness, contrasting beautifully with the cake’s textures while enhancing the flavor profile.
- Pecan Topping: Toasted pecans sprinkled on top deepen the nutty flavor while adding an extra crunch to each slice.
- Chai Tea: The warm spices of a chai latte marry beautifully with the flavors of the cake, creating a comforting experience that warms the soul.
Embrace these delightful combinations to create an unforgettable dessert experience for your next gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Neiman Marcus Cake
Fridge: Store your Easy Neiman Marcus Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The chilled cake firms up, enhancing the flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Thawing: To enjoy, thaw slices in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. This ensures the gooey butter center remains soft and delicious!
Reheating: If you prefer warm cake, microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the comforting melt-in-your-mouth experience, just like fresh from the oven!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Neiman Marcus Cake squares are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake base, including the yellow cake mix, butter, and egg, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply press the dough into your greased baking dish and then refrigerate it until you’re ready to proceed. Additionally, you can mix the cream cheese layer (cream cheese, powdered sugar, eggs, and vanilla) and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When it’s time to bake, layer the cream cheese mixture over the chilled base and proceed with baking. Cooking ahead means you spend less time in the kitchen on busy days while still enjoying that delectable gooey goodness!
Easy Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of cake mix is best for Neiman Marcus Cake?
I recommend using a yellow cake mix as the base for this dessert because it provides a delightful sweetness and structure. If you want a bit more flavor, a butter pecan cake mix can make a wonderful substitute!
How should I store leftover Neiman Marcus Cake?
Store the Easy Neiman Marcus Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keeping it chilled not only extends its freshness but also enhances the firm texture of the gooey center. Just remember to let it cool completely before storing!
Can I freeze Neiman Marcus Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Cut it into individual servings and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place all wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
What should I do if my cake is runny or not set properly?
If your Easy Neiman Marcus Cake seems too runny when you take it out of the oven, it may need more time. Ensure it’s baked until the edges are golden and only slightly jiggly in the center. If you cut it too soon, the gooey cream cheese layer may not have had enough time to set. Always allow it to cool for at least 2 hours before cutting!
Is Neiman Marcus Cake safe for those with allergies?
This cake contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy (from cream cheese and butter), and gluten (from cake mix). If you’re baking for someone with allergies, please ensure they can safely enjoy all the ingredients or consider alternatives like gluten-free cake mix and dairy-free cream cheese.
Easy Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe: Your Next Family Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Combine yellow cake mix, melted butter, and egg in a bowl until a thick dough forms and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Top the dough with chopped pecans.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in sifted powdered sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base and spread evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until edges are golden brown and center is slightly jiggly.
- Allow the cake to cool completely for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
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