Neiman Marcus Cake Cream Cheese

This Neiman Marcus Cake has been my secret weapon for potlucks and family gatherings for years. The contrast between the buttery cake base and creamy cheesecake-like topping creates a dessert that disappears faster than I can serve it.

I first made this for a last-minute dinner party when I needed something foolproof yet special. Guests assumed I had spent hours in the kitchen, and now it's my most requested dessert for every occasion.

Ingredients

• Yellow cake mix: the shortcut that makes this recipe so simple yet doesn't compromise on flavor
• Unsalted butter: melted for a rich buttery base that adds depth to the store bought mix
• Large eggs: they provide structure and richness to both layers of the cake
• Cream cheese: softened completely for that signature tangy layer look for full-fat for best results
• Powdered sugar: creates the perfect sweetness without the graininess of granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract: adds warmth and enhances the cream cheese flavor get pure extract for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Oven and Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper with overhang for easy removal. The preparation is crucial for clean slices later.

Create the Cake Base:

Mix your yellow cake mix with 2 eggs and all of the melted butter until you achieve a thick, almost cookie dough-like consistency. Take your time pressing this evenly into the baking dish, making sure to get into the corners for a uniform base.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:

Beat the cream cheese until completely smooth and fluffy with no lumps whatsoever about 2 minutes on medium-high speed. Add the remaining 2 eggs, vanilla extract, and gradually incorporate all the powdered sugar. Beat for an additional 3 minutes until the mixture is silky smooth and resembles a pourable custard.

Assemble and Layer:

Pour the cream cheese mixture slowly over the cake base, starting from the center and moving outward. Use a spatula to gently spread it to the edges without disturbing the base layer below.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake for exactly 35 minutes, then check for doneness. The edges should be set and golden, but the center should still have a slight jiggle similar to cheesecake. If needed, add 3-5 more minutes, watching carefully to avoid overbaking.

Cool Completely:

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 2 hours at room temperature before refrigerating for an additional 2 hours. This patience results in perfectly defined layers and makes cutting much cleaner.

Finish and Serve:

Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Cut with a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for pristine slices.

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The cream cheese layer is what truly makes this cake special. I discovered through trial and error that beating the cream cheese for a full 2 minutes before adding other ingredients makes an incredible difference in the final texture. My grandmother always said patience with cream cheese is rewarded tenfold in the finished dessert.

Storage Tips

This cake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap directly against the surface to prevent it from absorbing refrigerator odors. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices by wrapping them in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They thaw perfectly in about 2 hours at room temperature, tasting nearly as fresh as the day they were made.

Flavor Variations

While the classic version is perfection, I love experimenting with different twists. Try adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the cream cheese layer for a sophisticated flavor profile. For chocolate lovers, use a chocolate cake mix for the base and add mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese layer. During fall, I add a tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice to the cream cheese mixture and use a spice cake mix for the base—the aroma alone is worth the effort.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile cake works beautifully for both casual and formal occasions. For brunch, serve with fresh berries and coffee. As a dessert, pair with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. I often serve it slightly chilled rather than cold from the refrigerator to let the flavors fully bloom. For a truly decadent experience, drizzle individual slices with warm caramel sauce just before serving.

Origins and History

Despite its name, this cake has no direct connection to the luxury department store Neiman Marcus. It belongs to a family of desserts sometimes called "butter cakes" or "gooey butter cakes" that originated in the American Midwest. These cakes became popular in the mid-20th century when convenience products like cake mixes became household staples. The genius of this recipe is how it elevates simple ingredients into something that tastes completely homemade and special.

Common Queries

→ How do you achieve a smooth cream cheese layer?

Ensure the cream cheese is completely softened before mixing to prevent lumps. Beat until smooth before adding the other ingredients.

→ What type of pan works best for this dessert?

A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal, ensuring even baking and clean square servings. Use parchment for easy removal.

→ How do you know when it's done baking?

Bake until the top is golden, the edges are set, and the center jiggles slightly. Avoid overbaking to retain a creamy texture.

→ Can you add mix-ins to the cream cheese layer?

Yes, mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts can be added for extra flavor and texture. Gently stir into the topping before spreading.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store cooled slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Serve chilled or let them come to room temperature.