Neiman Marcus Cake

Neiman Marcus Cake: A Classic Indulgence

Let's bake a truly decadent dessert: the Neiman Marcus Cake. This cake is a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, featuring a rich cream cheese topping and a buttery crust. It's a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations. This easy-to-make dessert is as impressive as it is delicious. I'm thrilled to share this classic recipe with you.

Ingredient Essentials

Yellow Cake Mix:

This convenient ingredient forms the base of the cake, providing a consistent flavor and texture. While you can experiment with other cake mix flavors, the classic yellow cake mix offers a buttery, neutral foundation that complements the cream cheese topping perfectly.

Butter:

Butter adds richness and moisture to the crust, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Use unsalted butter for better control over the salt content. If you only have salted butter, reduce the amount of additional salt you add to the recipe.

Eggs:

Eggs play two important roles in this recipe. One egg is mixed into the crust to bind the ingredients together, while the other two eggs are blended into the cream cheese topping, creating a silky, custard-like texture. Use large, room-temperature eggs for the best results.

Chopped Nuts:

Pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch to the crust, enhancing its texture and flavor. Feel free to omit them if you prefer a smooth crust or substitute them with your favorite nuts for a personalized touch.

Cream Cheese:

Softened cream cheese is the foundation of the rich and tangy topping. Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture. It's crucial to let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.

Vanilla Extract:

Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cream cheese layer, adding a warm and aromatic note. Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste, but imitation vanilla extract will work in a pinch.

Powdered Sugar:

Powdered sugar sweetens the cream cheese mixture, creating a smooth and luscious topping. Sifting the sugar beforehand ensures a lump-free texture.

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Crafting Your Cake

Crust Preparation:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, egg, and chopped nuts. Mix until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into an ungreased 9x13-inch baking dish, forming a firm base layer.

Topping Creation:

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Mix until the topping is smooth, creamy, and well-blended. Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust.

Baking Process:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is just slightly set. The center may still appear slightly soft, but it will firm up as it cools. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing and serving.

You Must Know

• This cake is a delicious combination of sweet and tangy flavors.
• It's perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal parties.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for several days.

I particularly love the buttery, nutty crust of this cake. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy topping perfectly. It's a textural element that elevates the entire dessert.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, dust the cooled cake with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Flavorful Variations

For chocolate lovers, substitute the yellow cake mix with a chocolate cake mix. You can also add chocolate chips or chunks to the cream cheese topping for an even richer chocolate experience. For a citrus twist, replace the vanilla extract with lemon or orange extract and add some fresh zest to the cream cheese layer.

Storage and Freezing

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. Thaw frozen slices at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight.

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Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure all ingredients, especially the cream cheese, are at room temperature before mixing for a smooth and lump-free batter.

Don't overbake the cake. The center should still be slightly soft when you remove it from the oven, as it will continue to set as it cools.

Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner slices.

The Neiman Marcus Cake is a timeless classic that's sure to impress. It's a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delicious cake as much as I do. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different size baking dish?

A 9x13 inch pan is recommended. Using a different size may affect baking time and the ratio of crust to topping.

→ Can I add flavorings to the cream cheese topping?

Yes, you can add extracts like lemon, almond, or even a touch of coffee to the cream cheese mixture for a unique twist.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

→ Can I use a pre-made crust?

While the homemade crust is part of what makes this cake special, you could try a graham cracker crust in a pinch. However, the texture and flavor will be different.