Why You’ll Love This Neiman Marcus Cake
Hey there, baking buddies! Are you ready for a cake that’s as easy as it is unbelievably delicious? This Neiman Marcus Cake recipe is your answer to a quick dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Forget complicated techniques and fussy frosting – this recipe uses a simple cake mix as its base, elevating it to gourmet status with just a few extra ingredients. You’ll be amazed at how the combination of the buttery cake, creamy cream cheese frosting, and crunchy nuts creates a symphony of textures and flavors in your mouth. Imagine the rich, decadent cream cheese frosting, the moist and tender cake, and the satisfying crunch of the pecans or walnuts – it’s a taste sensation that’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight treat to a special celebration. This recipe is friendly even for beginner bakers; it’s quick to put together, and the results are incredibly impressive. Get ready to experience pure baking bliss! This cake creates a warm, comforting mood, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment of self-indulgence. You will want to make this again and again!
What You’ll Need
This decadent cake requires a few simple, yet high-quality, ingredients. Let’s get started!
One box of your favorite cake mix: The base of our masterpiece! Feel free to experiment with different flavors – chocolate, yellow, even spice cake will work wonders.
One stick (1/2 cup) of unsalted butter, melted: This adds richness and moisture to the cake, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Two large eggs: Binding agents that contribute to a light and fluffy texture. Make sure they’re at room temperature for optimal results.
One cup of chopped nuts: Pecans or walnuts are traditional, but feel free to get creative! Chopped almonds or even macadamia nuts would be fantastic. Their crunch adds a delightful textural contrast to the creamy frosting.
One (8 ounce) package of cream cheese, softened: The star of the show! Make sure your cream cheese is nice and soft for easy blending. Room temperature is key here.
One (16 ounce) box of powdered sugar: This provides the sweetness and creamy texture to the frosting. Sifting it beforehand will ensure a smooth, lump-free finish.
One large egg: Added to the frosting for extra richness and to help it hold its shape. Again, room temperature is ideal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to bake? Let’s create this amazing cake! Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on your cake mix box. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan – this ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.
1. Prepare the cake batter: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and chopped nuts. Mix until everything is well combined, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
2. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake according to the instructions on the cake mix box. Keep an eye on it – every oven is different, and you want to avoid overbaking. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
3. Let it cool: Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting. This is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting.
4. Make the frosting: While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined. Then, add the egg and beat until light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or cream at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Tip: For extra smooth frosting, use an electric mixer.
5. Frost the cake: Once the cake is completely cool, frost it evenly with the delicious cream cheese frosting. You can get creative here – use a spatula for a smooth finish or a piping bag for a more decorative look.
Tips for Success
Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for optimal blending and a smooth frosting.
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
Cool completely: Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting.
Variations to Try
Chocolate decadence: Use a chocolate cake mix and add chocolate chips to the batter for an extra chocolatey treat.
Citrus zest: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the cake batter for a bright and refreshing twist.
Spice it up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake batter for a warm and comforting flavor.
Different nuts: Experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds, macadamia nuts, or hazelnuts.
Add fruit: Fold in some fresh berries or chocolate chips to the batter for added flavor and texture.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave for short intervals until warmed through. Freezing is also an option; wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of nut? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with almonds, hazelnuts, or even a mix of nuts.
Q: How long does the cake last? A: Stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the cake will last for up to 3 days. Frozen, it will last for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make the frosting ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the frosting a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before frosting the cake.
Q: What if my frosting is too thick? A: Add a teaspoon of milk or cream at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Q: Can I use a different size pan? A: While a 9×13 inch pan is recommended, you can adapt the recipe to fit a different sized pan, just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
The Final Word
This Neiman Marcus Cake is a true masterpiece of simplicity and deliciousness. Its ease of preparation, coupled with its impressive taste and texture, makes it a perfect dessert for any occasion. The combination of the moist cake, creamy frosting, and crunchy nuts is simply irresistible. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience a baking triumph! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turned out. And please, rate the recipe – your feedback helps others discover this decadent delight!
Neiman Marcus Cake
Equipment
- Mixing bowls At least two, one for the cake batter and one for the frosting.
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixer (handheld or stand) Makes mixing easier.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 box Cake mix (any flavor)
- 1 stick Butter, melted
- 2 Large eggs
- 1 cup Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 (8 oz) package Cream cheese, softened
- 1 (16 oz) box Powdered sugar
- 1 Large egg
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and nuts. Mix until well combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Beat in the egg until well incorporated. The frosting should be light and fluffy.
- Once the cake is completely cool, frost it evenly with the cream cheese frosting.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set.