Creamy, decadent, and just a little bit nostalgic — Neiman Marcus Cake is one of those desserts that disappears fast at family gatherings. With a rich cream cheese layer sandwiched between a tender, nut-studded cake, it hits all the right notes: creamy, slightly crunchy, and perfectly sweet. Fun fact: this cake sprang from mid-century American kitchens where boxed cake mixes met clever home cooks, creating show-stopping desserts with minimal fuss.
This recipe is special because it’s simple to make, requires pantry-friendly ingredients, and tastes like something you’d order at a bakery. If you enjoy an easy, retro-style dessert, you might also like our twist on the classic 7-Up pound cake, which shares that same comforting, old-fashioned charm. Ready to impress without the stress? Let’s get baking — your guests (and maybe even your picky eaters) will thank you.
What is Neiman Marcus Cake?
Ever wondered why a humble cake has such a glamorous name? Is it from a fancy department store kitchen or just a wink at southern hospitality? The truth is delightfully fuzzy, and that’s part of the charm. Some stories say the cake was named to sound upscale, while others laugh that someone wanted to make a simple boxed cake feel like a luxurious treat. After all, isn’t the old saying true: “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Who wouldn’t want to eat a cake that sounds posh and tastes like home?
Imagine serving a dessert with a name like it belongs on a glossy catalog — everyone smiles before the first bite. Curious? Try the recipe and decide for yourself.
Why You’ll Love This
- Decadent layering: The star of this cake is the creamy, tangy cream cheese layer that melts into the cake as it bakes, creating a luscious texture that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make.
- Economical and accessible: Made from a box cake mix and a few staple ingredients, this dessert costs far less than a store-bought cake but tastes like it came from a bakery.
- Flavor plus texture: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a toasty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake and silky cream cheese filling.
If you like the comforting richness of other retro favorites, this cake gives the same satisfaction as many classic layered desserts, including our detailed take on the classic Neiman Marcus Cake post on the blog. Pull out your mixer and your favorite cake mix — this one’s worth the few extra minutes.
How to Make
Quick Overview
This recipe is straightforward and forgiving, which makes it perfect for beginners and busy cooks. You’ll combine a boxed cake mix with butter and eggs for the cake layers, fold in chopped nuts for texture, and sandwich a smooth cream cheese-sugar mixture in the middle. Prep time is under 15 minutes, bake time about 30–40 minutes, and total time under an hour.
Ingredients
1 box cake mix (any flavor) — use your preferred flavor such as yellow, white, or butter
1 stick butter — melted and slightly cooled
2 large eggs — for the cake batter
1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) — toasted if desired, chopped
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese — softened to room temperature
1 (16 oz) box powdered sugar — sifted for a smoother filling, if desired
1 large egg — for the cream cheese filling, room temperature
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, and 2 eggs until well blended. Use a spatula or a hand mixer on low speed and scrape the bowl so no dry mix remains. The batter should be thick but spreadable.
- Fold in the chopped nuts and mix until evenly distributed. If you like extra toasty flavor, briefly toast the nuts in a dry skillet before chopping.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free. Add the powdered sugar and the additional egg, mixing until fully incorporated and silky. A hand mixer helps achieve a smooth filling.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it into an even layer using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Don’t worry about perfection — it will bake evenly.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter layer, leaving a small border so the top batter can cover it completely.
- Carefully spoon the remaining batter over the cream cheese layer and gently spread to cover. The top layer can be slightly uneven; it will level during baking.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the final 10 minutes.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting so the cream cheese layer sets. Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy!
What to Serve With
- Fresh berries or a mixed fruit salad to brighten the richness
- A dollop of lightly whipped cream or a dusting of cinnamon on top
- Coffee or espresso for a classic pairing, or a chilled glass of milk for kids
- For a festive twist, serve with warm caramel sauce or a simple vanilla glaze
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Ingredient substitutions: Use low-fat cream cheese for a slightly lighter filling, though full-fat gives the creamiest texture. Swap nuts for chopped chocolate or leave out nuts for nut-free households.
- Timing adjustments: Bake time varies by oven and pan material; start checking at 30 minutes and add time as needed. A glass pan may require a few extra minutes.
- Flavor enhancements: Add 1 tsp vanilla extract to the cream cheese filling or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for warm spice notes. Zest of orange or lemon in the batter can add bright citrus lift.
- Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t overmix the cake batter once eggs are added — this can lead to a tough crumb. Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Nuts tip: Toasting nuts enhances their flavor; spread them on a baking sheet for 5–8 minutes at 350°F, watching closely so they don’t burn.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cream cheese layer keeps well chilled and the cake remains moist.
- Freezing: Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Shelf life details: Room temperature storage is not recommended for more than a few hours due to the cream cheese filling. Keep refrigerated for safety.
- Reheating: For a slightly warmed slice, microwave for 8–12 seconds on a plate — don’t overheat or the cream cheese may become too soft. Alternatively, bring to room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade cake batter instead of a box mix?
Yes — if you prefer, a simple yellow or butter cake recipe will work. Keep the batter consistency similar (thick but spreadable) so layering goes smoothly.
Do I have to use nuts in this cake?
No, nuts are optional. They add texture and toasty flavor, but you can omit them for nut-free needs or replace them with shredded coconut or mini chocolate chips.
Why did my cream cheese layer sink into the cake?
If the cream cheese mixture is too thin or the cake batter spread too thinly, the filling can sink. Make sure the cream cheese is well-beaten and the top layer of batter is thick enough to hold the filling.
Can I make this in a round pan or cupcakes?
Yes, adjust baking time accordingly. A round pan may need a few extra minutes; cupcakes will bake faster, usually 18–22 minutes. Keep an eye on doneness with a toothpick.
How can I prevent the top from cracking?
Avoid overmixing the batter and don’t overbake. Tent the cake with foil if the top is browning too quickly to keep moisture and prevent cracks.
Conclusion
Neiman Marcus Cake is a perfect example of a fuss-free, delicious dessert that feels special but is simple enough for any weeknight or celebration. With a creamy center, tender cake layers, and a nutty crunch, it delivers texture and flavor in every bite while keeping costs low and prep minimal. If you’d like to compare versions or see another classic take on this beloved cake, check out the original Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe for inspiration and variations. Give this recipe a try, share it with friends, and enjoy the smiles it brings.
Neiman Marcus Cake
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Pan
- Hand Mixer
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 box Cake Mix (any flavor) Use your preferred flavor such as yellow, white, or butter.
- 1 stick Butter Melted and slightly cooled.
- 2 large Eggs For the cake batter.
- 1 cup Chopped Nuts (pecans or walnuts) Toasted if desired, chopped.
- 1 package Cream Cheese 8 oz, softened to room temperature.
- 1 box Powdered Sugar 16 oz, sifted for a smoother filling, if desired.
- 1 large Egg For the cream cheese filling, room temperature.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, and 2 eggs until well blended. Use a spatula or a hand mixer on low speed and scrape the bowl so no dry mix remains. The batter should be thick but spreadable.
- Fold in the chopped nuts and mix until evenly distributed. If you like extra toasty flavor, briefly toast the nuts in a dry skillet before chopping.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free. Add the powdered sugar and the additional egg, mixing until fully incorporated and silky.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it into an even layer using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter layer, leaving a small border so the top batter can cover it completely.
- Carefully spoon the remaining batter over the cream cheese layer and gently spread to cover.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting so the cream cheese layer sets. Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy!