Neiman Marcus Cake is one of my favorite easy desserts whenever I want something rich, buttery, and irresistibly gooey. I love how the soft cake layer pairs with the creamy, cheesecake-like topping to create a dessert that feels homemade with very little effort. I often make it for holidays, potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever I want a classic dessert that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find 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
3 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Directions
I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13×9-inch baking pan.
I combine the yellow cake mix, 2 eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until a thick batter forms.
I spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
In another bowl, I beat together the softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and the remaining 2 eggs until smooth and creamy.
I carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter without mixing the layers.
I bake the cake for about 35 minutes until the edges are set and lightly pulling away from the pan while the center remains slightly soft.
I let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving for the best texture.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 14 servings
Calories: Approximately 428 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes use a butter cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for an even richer flavor. When I want a chocolate version, I swap in a chocolate cake mix and add chocolate chips to the topping. I also enjoy mixing chopped pecans or walnuts into the cream cheese layer for added crunch. For a seasonal twist, I sprinkle cinnamon into the batter or top the finished cake with fresh berries before serving. I occasionally drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over each slice for an extra indulgent dessert.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover Neiman Marcus Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days because of the cream cheese topping. For longer storage, I wrap individual slices tightly and freeze them for up to 2 months. When I am ready to enjoy a slice, I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. I usually serve the cake chilled, but I sometimes warm a slice in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds for a softer, gooier texture.
FAQs
Why is the center of my Neiman Marcus Cake still soft?
I expect the center to remain slightly soft after baking because that is what gives this dessert its signature gooey texture. The cake continues to set as it cools.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
I often prepare this cake a day in advance because the flavors become even better after it has chilled in the refrigerator.
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
I enjoy experimenting with butter, chocolate, spice, or lemon cake mixes to create different flavor variations while keeping the same creamy topping.
Do I need to refrigerate leftovers?
Yes. I always refrigerate leftovers since the topping contains cream cheese and eggs.
Can I freeze Neiman Marcus Cake?
Yes. I freeze individual slices in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months, then thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to this Neiman Marcus Cake because it delivers rich flavor, a perfectly gooey texture, and effortless preparation every time. Whether I am baking for a holiday celebration, a family gathering, or simply satisfying a dessert craving, this classic recipe always turns out delicious and earns compliments with every slice.
📖 Recipe:
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Neiman Marcus Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 14 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Neiman Marcus Cake is a rich, buttery dessert with a soft cake base and a creamy, gooey cream cheese topping. It’s an easy crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you want a simple homemade dessert.
Ingredients
1 (15.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
4 large eggs, divided
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13×9-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 2 eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until a thick batter forms.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and the remaining 2 eggs until smooth and creamy.
- Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter without mixing the layers.
- Bake for about 35 minutes, until the edges are set and lightly pulling away from the pan while the center remains slightly soft.
- Cool the cake completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
Substitute butter, chocolate, spice, or lemon cake mix for different flavor variations.
Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cream cheese layer for extra crunch.
Sprinkle cinnamon into the batter or top with fresh berries for a seasonal twist.
Drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over each slice before serving.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Serve chilled or warm a slice in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds for a softer texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 428 kcal
- Sugar: 43 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 87 mg
