Name: Neiman Marcus Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 3 large eggs, divided; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Neiman Marcus Cake combines the ease of a cake mix with the richness of cream cheese and powdered sugar, creating a dessert that is both decadent and foolproof. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. Whether served warm or at room temperature, every bite is soft, gooey, and irresistible.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Yellow cake mix
Unsalted butter
Eggs
Cream cheese
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix, melted butter, and eggs to form a thick batter.
Press this mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth, then mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake base, spreading it evenly.
Bake for about 35–40 minutes, until the edges are golden brown but the center is slightly gooey.
Let cool before cutting into squares or bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–15 servings, depending on portion size.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 35–40 minutes
Cooling time: 20 minutes

Variations

Use chocolate cake mix for a chocolatey version.
Add shredded coconut or chopped pecans to the cream cheese layer for extra texture.
Swirl in fruit preserves such as raspberry or strawberry before baking.
Try a red velvet cake mix for a festive twist.
Sprinkle the top with mini chocolate chips before baking for added richness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Neiman Marcus Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or enjoy at room temperature.

FAQs

What is Neiman Marcus Cake?

It’s a gooey butter cake made with a cake mix base and a cream cheese, powdered sugar topping.

Why is it called Neiman Marcus Cake?

The name likely comes from its rich and indulgent nature, similar to luxury items associated with the Neiman Marcus brand.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, chocolate, red velvet, or even spice cake mix can be used for delicious variations.

Does it need to be refrigerated?

It can sit at room temperature for a couple of days, but refrigerating extends freshness.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The edges should be golden brown, while the center remains slightly soft and gooey.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans and adjust baking time slightly.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a gluten-free yellow cake mix.

Is it better served warm or cold?

It tastes great both ways—warm for gooeyness, cold for a firmer texture.

Can I add toppings?

Yes, powdered sugar dusting, whipped cream, or fresh fruit are great additions.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely, it keeps well and can even be frozen, making it perfect for preparing in advance.

Conclusion

Neiman Marcus Cake is a simple yet indulgent dessert that delivers big flavor with little effort. Its gooey, buttery filling and soft cake base make it a timeless favorite for gatherings, holidays, or casual treats at home. With easy variations and excellent storage options, this cake is a reliable go-to recipe whenever you need something sweet and crowd-pleasing.