Neiman Marcus Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this cake requires only a handful of ingredients and very little prep time. Despite its simplicity, it tastes like something from a bakery.

I also enjoy the contrast between the buttery cake layer and the rich cream cheese topping. As it bakes, the layers create a delicious texture that is somewhere between a cake, a cheesecake, and a dessert bar.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 (15.25-ounce) package yellow cake mix
• 4 large eggs, divided
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3½ cups confectioners’ sugar
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13×9-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, I combine the yellow cake mix, 2 eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until a thick batter forms.
3. I spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. If needed, I lightly spray the back of a spatula with cooking spray to make spreading easier.
4. In a separate bowl, I beat together the confectioners’ sugar, softened cream cheese, and the remaining 2 eggs until smooth.
5. I pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cake batter.
6. I bake for about 35 minutes, until the edges are set and lightly pulling away from the sides while the center remains slightly jiggly.
7. I allow the cake to cool completely before slicing so the layers can fully set.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 14
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

I sometimes use a butter cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for an even richer flavor.

I enjoy adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the cream cheese layer for a subtle nutty note.

I occasionally sprinkle chopped pecans over the top before baking for added texture.

I like dusting the cooled cake with extra confectioners’ sugar before serving.

I sometimes add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese layer for a fun twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Because of the cream cheese layer, I prefer keeping leftovers chilled and serving them cold or slightly softened at room temperature.

I can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. I thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

If I prefer a warm slice, I microwave it for 10 to 15 seconds before enjoying.

FAQs

Why is the center supposed to be slightly jiggly?

I look for a slight jiggle because the center continues to set as the cake cools. Overbaking can cause the cake to lose its signature gooey texture.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes. I sometimes use butter pecan, white, or lemon cake mix for a different flavor profile.

Does Neiman Marcus Cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes. Since the topping contains cream cheese and eggs, I store the cake in the refrigerator after it has cooled.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make it a day in advance because the texture becomes even better after chilling.

Why is my batter so thick?

The cake layer is intentionally thick and stiff. Once spread into the pan, it creates the sturdy base needed to support the gooey cream cheese topping.

Conclusion

I love Neiman Marcus Cake because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The buttery cake base and rich cream cheese topping create a dessert that is wonderfully sweet, soft, and satisfying. Whether I serve it for holidays, potlucks, family gatherings, or simply as a weekend treat, it is always one of the first desserts to disappear from the table.

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