Neiman Marcus Cake is a rich, decadent dessert that combines the flavors of a buttery cake base with a creamy, sweet topping. This indulgent cake is known for its soft, gooey texture and crunchy nutty layer, making it a favorite at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday parties. The combination of cake mix, cream cheese, and powdered sugar creates a luscious dessert that’s both easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Named after the upscale department store, this cake exudes luxury in every bite. The simple ingredients come together to create a dessert that tastes like it took hours to make but can be prepared in under an hour. The rich, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy sweetness of the topping, and the nuts add a satisfying crunch that balances the soft texture of the cake. This Neiman Marcus Cake recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant celebrations. Its irresistible flavor and texture make it a standout dessert that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Why You’ll Love Neiman Marcus Cake
Neiman Marcus Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The use of cake mix as a base simplifies the baking process, allowing you to create a gourmet dessert with minimal effort. The combination of butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar creates a rich, velvety topping that contrasts beautifully with the tender cake layer. Chopped nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, making each bite more satisfying. This cake is versatile—you can use different flavors of cake mix, add chocolate chips, or even swirl in fruit preserves for a unique twist. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight treat, Neiman Marcus Cake is always a crowd-pleaser. Its rich flavor and creamy texture make it hard to resist, and the fact that it’s so easy to prepare means you can whip it up anytime you need a sweet fix.
Ingredients for Neiman Marcus Cake
To make this decadent cake, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
- 1 box cake mix (any flavor) – Yellow cake mix is the most commonly used, but chocolate, white, or butter cake mix also work well.
- 1 stick butter, melted – Adds richness and moisture to the cake base.
- 2 large eggs – Provides structure and helps the cake rise.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) – Adds texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweet topping.
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened – Creates a rich, creamy topping that balances the sweetness of the cake.
- 1 (16 oz) box powdered sugar – Sweetens the topping and creates a smooth, creamy texture.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the topping and gives it a light, creamy consistency.
How to Make Neiman Marcus Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and 2 eggs. Mix until smooth and well combined. The batter will be thick and slightly sticky. Stir in the chopped nuts until evenly distributed. The nuts add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake and creamy topping.
Step 3: Spread the Batter
Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure an even layer. The batter will be thick, so take your time to spread it out evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and the egg, and beat until light and fluffy. The mixture should be smooth, with no lumps. If the cream cheese is not fully softened, you may need to mix a little longer.
Step 5: Pour the Topping Over the Cake
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula, ensuring it covers the entire surface of the cake. The topping will spread slightly during baking, but it’s important to create an even layer to ensure consistent texture and flavor.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. The cake should have a gooey center, so avoid overbaking. The edges will be slightly crisp, and the center should be soft but not runny.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars. For best results, chill the cake in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours before serving. This helps the topping set and enhances the flavor.
Tips for Perfect Neiman Marcus Cake
- Use room temperature cream cheese – Softened cream cheese ensures a smooth, creamy topping without lumps.
- Don’t overbake – The center should remain slightly gooey for the best texture. Overbaking will make the cake dry and less rich.
- Chill before serving – Chilling the cake allows the flavors to meld and gives the topping a firmer texture.
- Use a different cake mix – Try chocolate, lemon, or spice cake mix for a different flavor profile.
- Add extra toppings – Sprinkle chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or additional chopped nuts over the topping before baking for added texture and flavor.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Chocolate Neiman Marcus Cake – Use chocolate cake mix and add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the topping.
- Lemon Neiman Marcus Cake – Use lemon cake mix and add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Pumpkin Neiman Marcus Cake – Add ½ cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the cake batter for a fall-inspired twist.
- Nut-Free Neiman Marcus Cake – Omit the nuts if you prefer a smoother texture or have nut allergies.
- Caramel Drizzle – After baking, drizzle caramel sauce over the cake for an extra layer of sweetness.
How to Store and Reheat
Store Neiman Marcus Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake’s rich topping will firm up when chilled, but it will soften at room temperature. To serve, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly. To freeze, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The cake will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, place the cake in the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for about an hour.
Health Benefits of Neiman Marcus Cake
While Neiman Marcus Cake is undeniably indulgent, it also provides some nutritional benefits. The eggs and cream cheese add a source of protein and calcium, which support bone health and muscle repair. Nuts provide healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Choosing a lower-sugar cake mix or using a sugar-free powdered sugar alternative can reduce the overall sugar content without sacrificing flavor. While this cake is a treat, enjoying it in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.
Final Thoughts
Neiman Marcus Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves rich, sweet, and creamy treats. Its combination of buttery cake, creamy topping, and crunchy nuts creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re making it for a holiday celebration, a family gathering, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit. Its easy preparation and versatile flavor options make it a go-to dessert for any occasion. Try this Neiman Marcus Cake recipe today and discover why it’s a favorite among dessert lovers!