Easy Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe

Neiman Marcus Cake is a rich, buttery, and decadent dessert with a gooey cream cheese layer, often referred to as a “Gooey Butter Cake” or “Texas Gold Bar.” Despite its name, this cake isn’t directly connected to the luxury department store Neiman Marcus, but it has gained popularity for its incredible taste and easy preparation.Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or casual gatherings, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that can be easily customized with different flavors, nuts, or chocolate variations. Whether served warm or chilled, Neiman Marcus Cake is a deliciously rich dessert that satisfies every sweet tooth!

In this article, you’ll learn everything about Neiman Marcus Cake, from its history and variations to step-by-step instructions for making the perfect version at home.

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Why is Neiman Marcus Cake So Popular?

Neiman Marcus Cake has gained popularity for several reasons, making it a go-to dessert for many households and gatherings.

1. Easy to Make

One of the biggest reasons for its popularity is its simplicity. With just a handful of basic ingredients—most of which are pantry staples—this cake comes together quickly with minimal effort. Unlike traditional cakes that require precise measurements and techniques, Neiman Marcus Cake is beginner-friendly and almost foolproof.

2. Rich and Decadent Flavor

This cake is irresistibly delicious! The combination of a buttery, chewy base and a sweet, creamy topping creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The richness of cream cheese and butter, along with the sweetness of powdered sugar, makes each bite indulgent and satisfying.

3. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal

Neiman Marcus Cake is a hit at potlucks, family gatherings, and special occasions. Its universally loved flavors make it a favorite among both kids and adults, ensuring that it’s always one of the first desserts to disappear at a party.

4. Versatility and Customization

This cake can be easily customized to suit different tastes and occasions. Variations include chocolate versions, nutty additions, or even seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice or lemon. This flexibility keeps the recipe exciting and adaptable for different events and personal preferences.

5. Gooey, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture

Unlike traditional cakes, Neiman Marcus Cake has a unique texture—a slightly firm, chewy base with a soft, gooey, custard-like topping. This indulgent consistency is one of the main reasons people keep coming back for more.

6. Nostalgia and Tradition

Many people associate this cake with family traditions and fond memories. Passed down through generations or shared at special gatherings, Neiman Marcus Cake has become a comfort food that brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia.

With its simple preparation, incredible taste, and crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s no surprise that Neiman Marcus Cake remains a beloved dessert choice for so many people.

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Neiman Marcus Cake

Neiman Marcus Cake is a rich, gooey, and easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious, crowd-pleasing treat!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (without pudding)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar (about 1 lb)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together the cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until well combined.
4. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to mix until smooth and lump-free.
4. Pour in the melted butter and blend well.
5. Stir in the chopped pecans if using for added crunch and flavor.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the filling over the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly firm.
   • The center should still be slightly soft and gooey—don’t overbake!
3. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Serving & Storage Tips

• Let the cake cool completely before slicing for clean, neat cuts.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Variations & Tips

Chocolate Version – Use devil’s food cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for a rich, chocolatey twist.

Nut-Free Option – Skip the pecans or replace them with shredded coconut for a different flavor.

Extra Richness – Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce before serving for added indulgence.

Tips for the Best Neiman Marcus Cake

Follow these tips to ensure your Neiman Marcus Cake turns out perfectly every time!

1. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients

• Softened cream cheese blends more smoothly, preventing lumps in the filling.
• Eggs at room temperature mix more evenly, creating a better texture.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

• Mix the crust ingredients until just combined to avoid a tough base.
• For the filling, beat until smooth, but don’t overbeat, as too much air can cause cracks.

3. Avoid Overbaking

• The edges should be golden brown, but the center should still be slightly soft and gooey.
• Overbaking will make the cake dry instead of rich and creamy.

4. Let the Cake Cool Completely

• Cooling allows the filling to set properly, making it easier to slice without falling apart.
• For extra clean cuts, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.

5. Line the Pan with Parchment Paper

• This makes it easier to remove the cake from the pan and prevents sticking.

6. Customize with Fun Variations

• Chocolate Lover’s Twist – Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow.
• Nut-Free Option – Skip the pecans or replace them with coconut flakes.
• Citrus Kick – Add lemon or orange zest to the filling for a fresh flavor.

7. Serve It Your Way

• Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
• Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
• Pair with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect treat.

8. Store Properly for Freshness

• Keep at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 1 week for a firmer texture.
• Freeze for up to 3 months – thaw in the fridge before serving.

By following these tips, you’ll get a rich, gooey, and absolutely irresistible Neiman Marcus Cake every time!

The Origins of Neiman Marcus Cake: Myth vs. Reality

Neiman Marcus Cake is a beloved dessert known for its rich, gooey texture and buttery sweetness. Despite its fancy name, this cake has no official connection to the luxury department store Neiman Marcus. Over time, myths and urban legends have surrounded the origins of this cake, but the true story is much simpler.

The Myth:

A Luxurious Department Store Dessert?

A common misconception is that Neiman Marcus Cake was created or sold by the Neiman Marcus company, similar to the Neiman Marcus Cookie urban legend. According to this widely debunked story, a woman was supposedly charged an outrageous fee for a cookie recipe from the store, which she then shared with the world in protest. Many assume the cake shares a similar background, but there is no historical evidence linking it to Neiman Marcus.

The Reality:

A Creative Name for a Classic Cake

In truth, Neiman Marcus Cake is simply a variation of St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake, a Midwestern dessert that dates back to the 1930s. The key ingredients—cake mix, butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar—are nearly identical, suggesting that the name “Neiman Marcus Cake” was likely a marketing gimmick or a creative way to make the cake sound more upscale.

The exact origins of the name remain unclear, but home bakers have been making this cake for decades, sometimes calling it “Texas Gold Bars” or “Gooey Butter Bars.” The addition of Neiman Marcus to the name likely helped the recipe gain popularity by associating it with something elegant and luxurious.

While Neiman Marcus Cake may not have a direct link to the famous retailer, it remains a timeless, crowd-pleasing dessert. Its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and indulgent taste have kept it a favorite in kitchens across America. Whether or not it has luxury roots, one thing is certain—this gooey, buttery cake is always a delicious treat!

Popular Variations and Customizations of Neiman Marcus Cake

One of the best things about Neiman Marcus Cake is its versatility! While the classic version is already rich and delicious, you can easily customize it to create new flavors and textures. Here are some popular variations to try.

1. Chocolate Version

For a rich, chocolatey twist, swap out the yellow cake mix for a chocolate cake mix. This version is perfect for chocolate lovers and pairs well with additional mix-ins like chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top.

How to Make It:

• Use a devil’s food or chocolate cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for the crust.
• Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the filling for extra decadence.
• Drizzle with chocolate ganache or dust with cocoa powder before serving.

2. Nutty Variations

For extra crunch and flavor, add nuts to the crust or filling. Pecans, walnuts, or almonds all work well in this cake.

How to Make It:

• Stir 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling before baking.
• Sprinkle chopped almonds or toasted coconut on top before serving.
• For a hazelnut twist, add ¼ cup of Nutella to the filling.

3. Seasonal Flavors

Celebrate different seasons by adding unique flavors to your Neiman Marcus Cake!

Pumpkin Spice Version (Fall Favorite

• Add ½ cup of canned pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the filling.
• Top with a dusting of cinnamon sugar before serving.

Lemon Delight (Spring & Summer

• Use a lemon cake mix instead of yellow for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling.
• Top with a light lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.

Peppermint Chocolate (Winter

• Use a chocolate cake mix and add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the filling.
• Crush peppermint candies or candy canes and sprinkle on top.
• Drizzle with white chocolate for a festive touch.

4. Coconut Cream Version

For a tropical twist, add coconut flavor to the cake.

How to Make It:

• Add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the filling.
• Use coconut extract instead of vanilla for a stronger coconut flavor.
• Top with toasted coconut flakes for extra texture.

5. Extra Gooey Caramel Version

For a caramel-infused treat, add caramel sauce to the filling or drizzle it on top after baking.

How to Make It:

• Swirl ½ cup of caramel sauce into the filling before baking.
• Drizzle with more caramel sauce after baking for extra richness.
• Sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet-and-salty contrast.

Neiman Marcus Cake is delicious on its own, but experimenting with different flavors can make it even better! Whether you love chocolate, nuts, seasonal spices, or tropical flavors, there’s a variation for everyone. Try one of these customizations or create your own unique twist!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings for Neiman Marcus Cake

Neiman Marcus Cake is a rich and decadent dessert that pairs well with various toppings, drinks, and occasions. Whether serving it for a special event or enjoying it as an everyday treat, here are some of the best ways to enhance its flavor and presentation.

Best Toppings for Neiman Marcus Cake

Classic and Simple Options

• Powdered Sugar – A light dusting adds elegance without overpowering the flavor.
• Whipped Cream – Soft and airy, it balances the cake’s dense texture.

Extra Indulgent Additions

• Caramel Drizzle – Enhances the cake’s buttery sweetness.
• Chocolate Sauce – A delicious pairing, especially for a chocolate variation.
• Crushed Nuts – Toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts add a crunchy contrast.

Fruity and Fresh Enhancements

• Fresh Berries – Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provide a refreshing tartness.
• Lemon or Orange Zest – Adds a hint of citrus to brighten the flavors.
• Berry Compote – A warm fruit sauce complements the richness of the cake.

Best Drinks to Pair with Neiman Marcus Cake

Hot Beverages

• Coffee (Black or Flavored) – The bitterness balances the cake’s sweetness.
• Espresso or Cappuccino – Strong and bold flavors complement the creamy texture.
• Chai Tea – Warm spices pair beautifully with the cake’s buttery notes.
• Hot Chocolate – A sweet, indulgent option that works especially well with a chocolate version of the cake.

Cold Beverages

• Cold Brew Coffee – A smooth and refreshing contrast to the cake’s richness.
• Milk (Regular, Almond, or Oat) – A comforting and classic pairing.
• Iced Tea (Sweet or Unsweetened) – Light and refreshing, balancing the cake’s density.

Alcoholic Pairings

• Sweet Dessert Wine (Moscato, Port, or Sauternes) – Enhances the cake’s richness.
• Baileys or Irish Cream Liqueur – A creamy complement to the gooey texture.
• Champagne or Sparkling Wine – The bubbles and acidity cut through the sweetness.

Best Occasions for Serving Neiman Marcus Cake

Family Gatherings and Holidays

• Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter celebrations.
• A great dessert for potlucks and family reunions.

Casual Get-Togethers

• Perfect for coffee dates, brunches, or afternoon tea.
• A delicious addition to BBQs or picnics.

Special Celebrations

• Works well for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special events.
• Can be served at baby showers or bridal showers with elegant toppings.

Everyday Indulgence

• Enjoy as a late-night treat with a warm drink.
• A great comfort food dessert for any time of the year.

Neiman Marcus Cake is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various flavors and occasions. Whether enjoyed with a simple cup of coffee or dressed up with fresh fruit and caramel, this gooey, buttery dessert is always a hit. No matter when or how you serve it, it’s guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth!

Neiman Marcus Cake vs. St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake

Neiman Marcus Cake and St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake are both rich, gooey, and indulgent desserts that share many similarities. However, there are key differences in their ingredients, preparation, and texture that set them apart.

1. Origin and History

• Neiman Marcus Cake has no confirmed historical ties to the Neiman Marcus department store. It is believed to be a variation of Gooey Butter Cake, made popular through home bakers and potluck traditions.
• St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake originated in St. Louis, Missouri in the 1930s when a baker accidentally used too much butter in a coffee cake recipe. The result was a deliciously gooey cake that became a local specialty.

2. Key Differences in Ingredients

Feature	Neiman Marcus Cake	St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake
Base	Made with boxed yellow cake mix	Made from scratch with flour, yeast, sugar, and butter
Topping	Cream cheese, eggs, powdered sugar, and butter	Butter, sugar, eggs, and sometimes evaporated milk
Texture	More custard-like and creamy	Slightly firmer but still gooey
Flavor	Buttery, sweet, and rich with a tangy cream cheese flavor	Buttery, sweet, and caramelized with a denser base

3. Preparation Differences

• Neiman Marcus Cake is easier to make because it uses a boxed cake mix for the crust, requiring minimal effort.
• St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake requires making a yeast-based dough from scratch, which takes more time and effort but results in a more traditional, dense texture.

4. Taste and Texture Comparison

• Neiman Marcus Cake has a richer, creamier texture due to the cream cheese topping, making it closer to a cheesecake-like consistency.
• St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake has a chewy, slightly crisp crust with a gooey center, offering a more butter-forward flavor without the tang of cream cheese.

5. Customization and Variations

• Neiman Marcus Cake can be easily adapted with chocolate cake mix, nuts, coconut, caramel, or lemon flavors.
• St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake is traditionally vanilla-based, but some versions include pumpkin, chocolate, or fruit flavors.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Try?

• If you want an easy, foolproof dessert with a creamy, cheesecake-like filling, go for Neiman Marcus Cake.
• If you prefer a classic, homemade pastry with a chewy and gooey texture, try St. Louis Gooey Butter Cake.

Both cakes are delicious and satisfying, so why not try both and decide which one is your favorite? Either way, you’re in for a sweet and buttery treat!

FAQ

Conclusion

Neiman Marcus Cake is a rich, buttery, and gooey dessert that has earned its place as a favorite among home bakers. Despite its luxurious name, it is an easy-to-make recipe that requires only a few simple ingredients but delivers incredible flavor and texture.

Its creamy, melt-in-your-mouth topping and chewy, cake-like base make it a perfect treat for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to special celebrations. The recipe is also highly versatile, allowing for various customizations such as chocolate versions, nutty add-ins, or seasonal flavors.

Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced cook, Neiman Marcus Cake is a foolproof dessert that is sure to impress. Its simplicity, delicious taste, and endless variations make it a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. Enjoy every indulgent bite!