Looking for a cake recipe that will give you something like the ooey, gooey butter cake you had at Neiman Marcus? Try this one! The Neiman Marcus Cake is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to holidays. Its creamy layers and rich flavor make it a standout dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious cake in no time.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar creates a decadent topping that complements the yellow cake perfectly.
- Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a family gathering or a special celebration, this cake fits right in.
- Feeds a Crowd: This recipe yields 14 servings, making it ideal for sharing with friends and family.
- No Special Ingredients Needed: You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, it’s important to gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 13×9-inch baking pan
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
- Electric mixer: Speeds up the mixing process, especially when incorporating cream cheese into the batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for perfect results.
- 13×9-inch baking pan: Provides the right size and shape for even baking.

Ingredients
For this delicious Neiman Marcus Cake, you will need:
For the Cake Base
- 1 (15.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
- 4 eggs
- 0.5 cup butter
- vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese
How to Make Neiman Marcus Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease your 13×9-inch baking pan thoroughly to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Yellow cake mix
2. 2 eggs
3. Butter (softened)
4. Vanilla extract
Mix well until all ingredients are combined into a stiff batter. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In another bowl, mix together:
1. Confectioners’ sugar
2. Remaining 2 eggs
3. Cream cheese (softened)
Blend until smooth, then pour this mixture over the top of your cake batter in the pan.
Step 4: Bake Your Cake
Place your pan in the preheated oven. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—this should take about 35 minutes.
Step 5: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, allow your cake to cool completely in the pan before cutting it into squares. This helps maintain those delicious layers!
Enjoy your homemade Neiman Marcus Cake!
How to Serve Neiman Marcus Cake
Neiman Marcus Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. It pairs beautifully with different toppings and sides, enhancing its rich flavors.
Toppings
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy texture to the cake.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over the top adds a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
Accompaniments
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the cake’s richness perfectly.
- Coffee or Tea: Serving the cake with a warm beverage balances its sweetness and makes for a comforting treat.
- Fruit Compote: A homemade fruit compote can add a fresh burst of flavor and moisture.
How to Perfect Neiman Marcus Cake
To ensure your Neiman Marcus Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to avoid a tough cake; this keeps it tender and moist.
- Check Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer can help ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
- Cool Completely Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool helps set the layers and makes it easier to cut into squares.
Best Side Dishes for Neiman Marcus Cake
Pairing Neiman Marcus Cake with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances sweetness.
- Chocolate Mousse: Light and airy, this rich dessert contrasts well with the dense cake.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs nicely, offering savory notes against sweet flavors.
- Pecan Pie Bars: These bars add another layer of indulgence with their nutty flavor.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade caramel adds extra sweetness and richness to each bite.
- Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet cleanses the palate, making it an excellent refreshing side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Neiman Marcus Cake can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
-
Using Cold Ingredients: Always let your butter and cream cheese come to room temperature. This helps them blend smoothly into the batter.
-
Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light texture.
-
Incorrect Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and cake texture.
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Skipping the Cooling Step: Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting. This helps keep the layers distinct and makes serving easier.
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Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons. Incorrect measurements can lead to an off-balance flavor or texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- The Neiman Marcus Cake lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Neiman Marcus Cake
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating Neiman Marcus Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Neiman Marcus Cake:
What is Neiman Marcus Cake?
Neiman Marcus Cake is a rich, buttery dessert featuring a yellow cake base topped with a creamy layer of cream cheese and sugar.
Can I use different flavors of cake mix?
Yes! You can experiment with chocolate or lemon cake mixes for unique flavors while keeping the same creamy topping.
How do I ensure my Neiman Marcus Cake doesn’t stick?
Grease your baking pan well before adding the batter. You can also line it with parchment paper for extra protection against sticking.
How should I serve Neiman Marcus Cake?
This cake is delicious on its own but can be served with fresh berries or whipped cream for added flavor and presentation.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular cake mix with a gluten-free alternative to enjoy this delightful treat without gluten.
Final Thoughts
The Neiman Marcus Cake offers rich flavors and textures that will impress anyone who tries it. Its versatility means you can customize it with different flavors or toppings to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Neiman Marcus Cake
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Neiman Marcus Cake, a rich and creamy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This decadent cake boasts a buttery yellow cake base topped with a luscious cream cheese layer, making it an irresistible treat for your family and friends. With its simple preparation and no-fuss ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite at birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings. Impress your guests with this showstopper that’s both easy to make and hard to resist!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 14 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 package yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces)
- 4 large eggs
- 0.5 cup softened butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups confectioners' sugar
- 8 ounces softened cream cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13×9-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 2 eggs, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended into a stiff batter. Spread evenly in the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, blend together the confectioners' sugar, remaining 2 eggs, and softened cream cheese until smooth. Pour this mixture over the cake batter in the pan.
- Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg



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