Neiman Marcus Cake

The Neiman Marcus Cake is one of those old-fashioned desserts that never goes out of style. With a buttery yellow cake mix crust and a rich cream cheese filling, this cake bakes up into golden, gooey squares that are sweet, chewy, and utterly irresistible.

It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find at church potlucks, holiday tables, and family gatherings — because it’s simple to make, feeds a crowd, and always disappears fast.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

• Quick & easy: Just a few ingredients and minimal prep.
• Gooey & chewy: Soft center with a golden crackly top.
• Crowd-pleasing: Perfect for potlucks, holidays, and family dinners.
• Customizable: Can be made with different cake mixes and flavors.

Ingredients

For the Bottom Layer

• 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
• 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Top Layer

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg until dough forms.
3. Press evenly into the bottom of the baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until creamy.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

1. Pour cream cheese mixture over the cake base.
2. Spread evenly with a spatula.
3. Bake 40–45 minutes, until top is golden and slightly crackly.
   • The center should still be gooey (don’t overbake).

Step 4: Cool & Serve

1. Let cool completely in pan.
2. Cut into squares or bars for serving.
3. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overbake: The gooey center is what makes this cake special.
• Line the pan: Use parchment for easy removal and cleaner cuts.
• Room temp cream cheese: Ensures a smooth filling.
• Flavor twist: Try chocolate, lemon, or spice cake mix for variety.

Variations

• Pecan Neiman Marcus Cake: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the crust before adding filling.
• Chocolate Version: Use chocolate cake mix + cocoa powder in filling.
• Pumpkin Spice: Add ½ cup pumpkin puree and cinnamon to the top layer.
• Red Velvet: Use red velvet cake mix for a festive holiday version.

Why This Recipe Works

The cake mix crust provides a chewy, buttery foundation, while the cream cheese filling creates that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Powdered sugar adds sweetness and helps form the crackly top — the signature look and taste of a Neiman Marcus Cake.

✨ Rich, gooey, and unforgettable, this Neiman Marcus Cake is a vintage dessert that deserves a place in every recipe box.