If you have a sweet tooth and love a dessert that perfectly balances richness with a light, fluffy texture, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe. This luscious cake combines a golden yellow cake base with a creamy, dreamy cream cheese topping that makes every bite melt in your mouth. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert for a family gathering or a cozy treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this recipe has your back. Trust me, once you experience the magic of this Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe, it’ll become one of your all-time favorites, just like it did for me.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully simple, yet each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating its delectable flavor and texture. From the moist cake layer to the creamy, sweet topping, these essentials come together beautifully without any fuss.
- Yellow cake mix: This provides the perfect fluffy and tender cake base with a classic, buttery flavor.
- Large eggs: Eggs add structure and richness, ensuring the cake holds together with a soft crumb.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Butter brings moistness and enhances the cake’s golden color and buttery essence.
- Vanilla extract: Just a hint of vanilla rounds out the flavor profile with warmth and depth.
- Confectioners’ sugar: This superfine sugar creates a smooth, sweet topping that melts wonderfully with the cream cheese.
- Cream cheese (softened): The cream cheese adds a tangy, creamy layer that contrasts beautifully with the sweet cake beneath.
How to Make Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan thoroughly; this ensures your cake will release easily once baked, preserving that lovely golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with 2 eggs, the melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just incorporated—the batter should be smooth and thick. Then spread this evenly in your prepared pan to form the base layer of your cake.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping
In a separate bowl, blend together the confectioners’ sugar, softened cream cheese, and the remaining 2 eggs. Beat until the mixture is luxuriously smooth and creamy, free of lumps. This luscious topping is what makes the Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe truly unforgettable.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Pour the cream cheese mixture gently over the cake batter in the pan, spreading it out evenly to cover the surface. Bake in your preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake and topping are set and perfectly cooked.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is key because it helps the layers set, making slicing into neat squares easier and more satisfying.
How to Serve Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While the cake is delightful on its own, adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a handful of fresh berries can brighten the presentation and add a fresh note. Toasted nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce are also wonderful for an extra touch of indulgence.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, bringing a cool contrast to the creamy cake layers. A hot cup of coffee or tea makes for the perfect companion, especially when sharing with friends or family.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe in individual ramekins or mini trifle jars layered with fresh fruit and whipped cream. For a festive touch, dust with edible gold glitter or garnish with edible flowers to turn this classic cake into a showpiece dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week if refrigerated. Refrigeration tends to firm up the cream cheese topping, making it even more luscious.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by wrapping individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or storing them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cake will maintain its quality for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This brings back the softness and enhances the cream cheese topping’s smooth texture without losing moisture.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade yellow cake instead of a mix?
Absolutely! If you prefer from-scratch baking, a moist homemade yellow cake will work wonderfully as the base. Just be sure it’s not too dense so the cream cheese topping can bake evenly.
Is this cake gluten-free?
The traditional Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe uses a standard yellow cake mix, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute with your favorite gluten-free cake mix to make a delicious gluten-free version.
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
Cream cheese is key to the signature tang and texture, but you could experiment with mascarpone for a milder, richer flavor. Keep in mind that it may change the consistency slightly.
How long does the Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe take to bake?
From start to finish, including prep and baking time, you’re looking at about 50 minutes. The baking itself typically takes around 35 minutes.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Definitely! The Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe is very forgiving and straightforward. It’s perfect for bakers of all levels looking to create an impressive dessert without complicated steps.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe that turns a simple gathering into a memorable occasion. Its beautiful balance of light cake and creamy topping makes it irresistible. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly it becomes a staple in your dessert rotation. Happy baking and enjoy every delectable bite!
Print
Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Neiman Marcus Cake is a rich and luscious dessert featuring a moist yellow cake base topped with a creamy, sweet cream cheese layer. This indulgent cake is perfect for serving at parties or family gatherings, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients
Cake Base
- 1 (15.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Topping
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 2 eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan to form the base layer.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat together the confectioners’ sugar, softened cream cheese, and the remaining 2 eggs until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour this mixture evenly over the cake batter in the pan.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool and Slice: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the topping.
- Greasing the pan well will help with easy removal of the cake once baked.
- For a richer flavor, you can use buttercream frosting as an alternative topping.
- This cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the confectioners’ sugar slightly in the cream cheese layer.
