Are you craving a delectable dessert that will impress your friends and family? Look no further than the Neiman Marcus Cake! This delightful treat combines a moist and flavorful cake bottom layer with a creamy and luscious cream cheese top layer.
It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. In this blog post, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make this mouthwatering Neiman Marcus Cake. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Who is the Neiman Marcus Cake For?
The Neiman Marcus Cake is a dessert that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Its rich and indulgent flavor appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is the ideal choice. It’s also a fantastic option for potlucks, birthday parties, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a homemade treat.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment ready:
- 9×13 cake pan
- Non-stick spray or foil for lining the pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Sturdy spoon
- Fingers or a bench scraper
- Mixing bowl for cream cheese topping
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients:
To create the Neiman Marcus Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
Cake Bottom Layer:
- 1 15.25 oz box of yellow or white cake mix
- ½ cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
Cream Cheese Top Layer:
- 3-½ cups powdered sugar, plus more for serving
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Now that you have all the ingredients and equipment ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making the Neiman Marcus Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your 9×13 cake pan by spraying it with non-stick spray or lining it with foil.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and eggs. Use a sturdy spoon to mix them together until well blended. The mixture should resemble thick cookie dough.
Use your fingers or a bench scraper to press the dough into the prepared pan, creating an even layer at the bottom.
In another mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and two cups of powdered sugar on low speed until smooth.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and continue beating on low speed until well blended.
Gradually add the remaining 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar and beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Pour the cream cheese topping over the cake’s bottom layer, ensuring it spreads evenly to the edges of the pan.
Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is set and golden brown. You can check for doneness by gently shaking the pan—the cake should not jiggle in the center.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
Once cooled, cut the cake into squares and sprinkle the top with additional powdered sugar if desired.
Serve and enjoy!
FAQ
1. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for a yellow or white cake mix, feel free to experiment with other flavors. Chocolate, lemon, or even confetti cake mix can add a unique twist to the Neiman Marcus Cake. Be adventurous and try different flavors to find your favorite!
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Neiman Marcus Cake in advance. Once baked and cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, you can bring it back to room temperature or enjoy it chilled—it tastes delicious either way!
3. Are there any variations or toppings I can add?
Certainly! The Neiman Marcus Cake is versatile and can be customized to your liking. Here are a few ideas:
- Add a layer of fruit preserves between the cake bottom and cream cheese topping for a fruity twist.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the cream cheese layer for added crunch and flavor.
- Drizzle a homemade caramel or chocolate sauce on top of the cake for an extra indulgent touch.
Feel free to experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own unique Neiman Marcus Cake experience!
Food and Drink Pairings
The Neiman Marcus Cake is a delightful dessert on its own, but if you’re looking for some food and drink pairings, we have a few suggestions:
- Serve the cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a side of fresh berries for a refreshing and light accompaniment.
- Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a hot cup of tea for a cozy and comforting dessert experience.
- For a special occasion, serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle it with warm chocolate sauce for an irresistible treat.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to pairing the Neiman Marcus Cake with other delicious treats, so let your taste buds guide you!