Rich, gooey, and irresistibly sweet, Neiman Marcus Cake is a classic Southern-inspired dessert known for its buttery crust and decadent cream cheese topping. It’s a showstopper for gatherings and potlucks.
Introduction and Origin
Despite the name, this cake isn’t officially linked to the Neiman Marcus brand. It gained popularity in the South as a rich, layered dessert often passed down through handwritten family recipes and community cookbooks. Its origins are rooted in the “Gooey Butter Cake” tradition, beloved for its simplicity and indulgent texture.
Cultural Significance
Neiman Marcus Cake represents the heart of Southern hospitality—rich, sweet, and perfect for sharing. Often made for church events, reunions, and holiday spreads, it evokes nostalgia and the warmth of home-baked desserts.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 box cake mix (any flavor, yellow or butter are most common)
- 1 stick (½ cup) butter, melted
- 2 large eggs (for base layer)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (16 oz) box powdered sugar
- 1 large egg (for topping)
Optional Additions
- A splash of vanilla or almond extract in the cream cheese layer
- Chocolate chips or coconut flakes mixed into the base
- A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth
- Lemon zest or juice for a zesty twist
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients for smooth blending
- Line your baking pan with parchment for easy removal
- Don’t overmix the topping—just combine until smooth
- Let the cake cool fully before slicing for best texture
- Store leftovers in the fridge to keep the topping fresh
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish
- In a bowl, combine cake mix, melted butter, and 2 eggs. Stir until well blended, then fold in chopped nuts
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and 1 egg, mixing until fully combined and creamy
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the base layer and spread evenly
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden and slightly set but still a bit jiggly in the center
- Cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares
Description
Neiman Marcus Cake has a chewy, nutty crust and a rich, gooey cream cheese topping. It’s sweet, buttery, and melts in your mouth, offering the perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 square out of 20)
Calories: 310
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 28g
Protein: 3g
Calcium: 6% DV
Note: Values may vary depending on cake mix and nut choice.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Neiman Marcus Cake is an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert with a timeless appeal. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a potluck, or just because, it’s sure to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter twist, use a sugar-free cake mix, reduce the powdered sugar slightly, or swap in low-fat cream cheese. While rich by nature, enjoying it mindfully lets you savor the sweetness without guilt.