Here’s a fully polished and expanded recipe profile for Neiman Marcus Cake, with all requested sections included and the wide line removed:
Introduction
Neiman Marcus Cake, sometimes called Gooey Butter Cake, is a rich, indulgent dessert featuring a buttery cake base topped with a sweet, creamy, cheesecake-like layer. Its gooey, decadent texture and sweet flavor make it a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and family dinners. This cake is simple to prepare yet feels special — a perfect dessert for when you want something comforting and impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Despite its glamorous name, Neiman Marcus Cake does not originate from the upscale department store. Its roots are tied to midwestern American baking traditions, where convenience ingredients like boxed cake mix became staples in the 1960s and 70s. The cake’s alternate name, Gooey Butter Cake, originated in St. Louis, Missouri, and has since gained nationwide popularity. Its appeal lies in its combination of pantry staples with an almost bakery-quality result, bridging the gap between homemade charm and sophisticated flavor.
Ingredients (with Quantities)
For the Cake Base
- 1 box cake mix (any flavor, yellow or butter cake mix is traditional)
- 1 stick butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts recommended)
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (16 oz) box powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
Optional Additions
- Vanilla extract – 1 tsp added to the cream cheese layer for extra flavor
- Chocolate chips – sprinkled into the cake base for richness
- Coconut flakes – for a tropical twist
- Fruit preserves – swirl into the cream cheese layer for a fruity accent
- Dusting of cocoa powder – for a slightly bittersweet finish
Tips for Success
- Soften cream cheese fully before mixing for a smooth, lump-free topping.
- Do not overbake – the center should remain slightly gooey for the signature texture.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing to help the layers set properly.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal from the pan if serving on a platter.
- Experiment with cake mix flavors – chocolate, lemon, or spice cake mix all work beautifully.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Make the cake base: In a large bowl, combine cake mix, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until a thick batter forms. Fold in chopped nuts. Spread evenly into prepared pan.
- Make the cream cheese layer: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and egg until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble: Pour cream cheese mixture over the cake batter, spreading evenly to cover.
- Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden. The center should still be slightly soft.
- Cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares or bars.
- Serve as is or dust with powdered sugar for a pretty finish.
Description
This cake has a tender, nutty base with a luscious, gooey cream cheese topping that melts in your mouth. The contrast between the buttery cake and the sweet, creamy layer creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s rich, slightly chewy at the edges, and decadently soft in the center.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, assuming 12 servings)
- Calories: ~420
- Carbohydrates: ~48g
- Fat: ~22g
- Protein: ~5g
- Sugar: ~36g
(Values may vary depending on cake mix flavor and nut choice.)
Conclusion
Neiman Marcus Cake is a timeless dessert that blends convenience and elegance. It’s perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or holiday gatherings, and its gooey, irresistible texture ensures it will be one of the first desserts to disappear from the table.
Recommendation
Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea to balance its sweetness. For a more decadent presentation, top with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese, a sugar-free cake mix, and a powdered sugar substitute. You can also reduce the amount of nuts or replace them with chopped oats for added fiber. These small tweaks allow you to enjoy this nostalgic dessert with a bit less guilt while keeping its signature gooey deliciousness.
Would you like me to create flavor variations (like a chocolate version or lemon version) to turn this cake into a seasonal dessert lineup?