Neiman Marcus Cake

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This Neiman Marcus Cake is one of those crowd-pleasing desserts that somehow manages to be both rich and incredibly simple to make. The first time I baked it, I was stunned by how few ingredients it required and how little time it took to prepare—yet the result looked and tasted like something out of a bakery window. With its dense, gooey center and slightly crisp, golden top, it’s easy to see why it’s often called a “Gooey Butter Cake.”

I love recipes that don’t demand too much fuss, especially when they deliver big on flavor. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, holiday table, or just a late-night sweet tooth fix, this cake fits the bill. It’s a nostalgic treat that feels like it belongs at every gathering. Best of all, it starts with a boxed cake mix—but don’t let that fool you. What comes out of the oven is nothing short of magic.

Why You’ll Love This Neiman Marcus Cake

This cake is perfect for both beginner bakers and experienced dessert lovers alike. It takes minimal prep, uses pantry staples, and delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture that has everyone asking for seconds. The buttery top layer forms a crackly crust, while the center stays moist and rich—somewhere between cheesecake and blondie.

What Kind of Cake Mix Should I Use?

A yellow cake mix is the classic base for Neiman Marcus Cake. It gives that buttery, vanilla-scented foundation that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling. You can also try using a butter golden or French vanilla cake mix for a slightly richer depth.

Options for Substitutions

• Cake Mix: Swap yellow for white cake mix or even chocolate for a twist.
• Cream Cheese: If you’re out, mascarpone is a good substitute but will taste slightly less tangy.
• Butter: Margarine can be used in a pinch, though real butter provides better flavor.
• Powdered Sugar: Use a sugar substitute if you’re making a low-sugar version.
• Eggs: For an egg-free version, use flax eggs or an egg replacer, but expect a slightly less fluffy result.

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Ingredients for this Neiman Marcus Cake

• Yellow Cake Mix – The essential base for the cake, providing structure and a buttery vanilla flavor. It also makes the recipe incredibly easy and quick to prepare.
• Unsalted Butter – Melted butter adds rich flavor and moisture to both the base and topping layers.
• Eggs – These bind the ingredients together and give the cake its lift and chewy texture.
• Cream Cheese – Softened cream cheese forms the luscious, gooey top layer that defines the cake’s signature texture.
• Powdered Sugar – Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this sweetens the top layer and helps achieve the fudgy consistency.
• Vanilla Extract – Just a touch enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.

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Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup. This ensures the cake doesn’t stick and lifts out cleanly after baking.

Step 2: Make the Cake Base

In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with 1 egg and the melted butter (usually 1/2 cup). Stir until a thick, cohesive dough forms. Press this evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This forms the buttery, dense bottom layer of the cake.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Topping

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add the remaining 2 eggs, vanilla extract (1 tsp), and the powdered sugar (about 3 to 4 cups). Beat until well combined and smooth. This mixture will be very thick and rich.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, making sure to reach all the corners. The topping should completely cover the base layer.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The top should be golden brown and slightly crackly, but the center will still have a bit of jiggle—that’s perfect. Don’t overbake, as it will firm up while cooling.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut it into squares. Dust the top with a little extra powdered sugar before serving if desired. The texture should be gooey, soft in the middle, and just slightly firm at the edges.

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How Long to Prepare the Neiman Marcus Cake

Preparation Time: Most of your time will go into mixing the two layers. It usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes to get everything measured, mixed, and layered into the pan. Because we’re using cake mix, the base layer comes together in minutes.

Baking Time: Bake the cake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes. It’s ready when the top is golden but the center still jiggles slightly. After baking, allow at least 30 minutes to cool completely before slicing to get clean cuts.

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Tips for Perfect Neiman Marcus Cake

• Always bring cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
• Don’t overmix the cream cheese layer; beat just until smooth.
• A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving makes it look bakery-perfect.
• Chill the cake for a firmer texture if you prefer cleaner cuts.
• Line the pan with parchment if you want to lift out the whole cake before slicing.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking: If you bake it too long, the gooey center dries out. Pull it when the edges are set and the center still has some wobble.
• Using cold cream cheese: This creates a lumpy batter. Always soften it fully first.
• Under-mixing the base: Make sure the cake mix and butter are fully combined or the crust may bake unevenly.
• Skipping the parchment: If you’re serving the cake at a party, parchment makes transferring and slicing much easier.
• Cutting too soon: Let it cool or chill completely for neater squares.

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What to Serve With Neiman Marcus Cake?

1. Fresh Berries

Bright raspberries or strawberries balance the richness with a pop of tartness.

2. Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds airiness.

3. Coffee or Espresso

The bold bitterness of coffee pairs beautifully with the cake’s sweetness.

4. Vanilla Ice Cream

Cold and creamy, it melts over warm slices like a dream.

5. Salted Caramel Drizzle

Adds complexity and a salty-sweet edge that takes the cake to the next level.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Because of the cream cheese layer, it’s best kept in a cool spot.

Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 5 days. The cake actually tastes better the next day after the flavors settle.

Freezing: You can freeze Neiman Marcus Cake for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 15 servings):

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 270mg
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 28g
• Protein: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Neiman Marcus Cake different from other cakes?

The gooey, cream cheese-based topping creates a dense, rich layer that’s more indulgent than traditional frosted cakes.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Does it need to be refrigerated?

Yes, if you’re storing it for more than a day. The cream cheese layer is perishable.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, it tastes even better the next day after chilling overnight.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use two 9×13 pans rather than a larger pan to ensure even baking.

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Conclusion

Neiman Marcus Cake proves that simplicity can be truly luxurious. It’s the perfect example of how a few basic ingredients—when combined thoughtfully—can create a dessert that feels both homey and special. Whether you’re baking it for your family, friends, or just because, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen. From the rich, gooey center to the crisp golden top, every bite delivers comfort and joy.

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