Nordstrom Cake Vibes – Easy Neiman Marcus Butter Cake

The Neiman Marcus Cake is one of those vintage Southern-style desserts that feels indulgent, over-the-top, and incredibly satisfying. Known for its gooey center, buttery crust, and luscious cream cheese topping, this cake is sometimes called “Gooey Butter Cake” — but the Neiman Marcus version takes it a step further with added richness and depth.

Named (some say playfully, not officially) after the upscale department store, this cake tastes like pure luxury — but it’s shockingly easy to make. It starts with a cake mix base, gets topped with a whipped cream cheese and powdered sugar mixture, and bakes into a layered, melt-in-your-mouth treat that sits somewhere between a brownie, a blondie, and a cheesecake.

It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, bake sales, or just whenever you want something sweet, creamy, and deeply comforting.

Ingredients Overview

The magic of the Neiman Marcus Cake lies in how simple ingredients transform into something spectacular. Here’s what each component does:

For the Bottom Layer (Cake Base):

• Yellow Cake Mix: Acts as the base. It creates a chewy, buttery crust that supports the gooey layer on top. You can also use white or butter cake mix for a slightly different flavor.

• Unsalted Butter (Melted): Adds richness and moisture to the crust layer.

• Eggs: Bind the cake mix into a cohesive, slightly dense bottom layer.

For the Gooey Top Layer:

• Cream Cheese (Softened): The heart of the gooey top layer. Tangy, creamy, and thick, it gives the cake its cheesecake-like texture.

• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and helps form that signature crackly, glossy crust on top.

• Eggs: Help the cream cheese layer set as it bakes without turning too firm.

• Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the sweet, creamy flavors.

Optional Add-ins:

• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: Stir into the top layer for a nutty crunch.

• Chocolate Chips: A decadent addition to either layer for chocolate lovers.

• Coconut Flakes: Adds texture and pairs beautifully with the buttery flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Prepare the Cake Layer

In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Mix until a thick dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. It will be thick, like cookie dough — use your fingers or the back of a spoon to spread it out.

3. Make the Gooey Topping

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth (use a hand mixer or stand mixer). Add the eggs, vanilla, and gradually beat in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated and fluffy.

4. Pour and Smooth

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake layer and spread evenly with a spatula.

5. Bake

Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Don’t overbake — the gooey texture is part of the charm!

6. Cool and Slice

Let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing. It will firm up as it cools and slice more cleanly. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Crackly Top Tip: Let the cake cool fully before slicing to preserve the crackled sugar top.

• Add Lemon Zest: For a citrus twist, add 1 tsp lemon zest to the cream cheese layer.

• Spice It Up: Use a spice cake mix or add ½ tsp cinnamon for a fall-inspired flavor.

• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free cake mix — all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

• Make It Chocolate: Use chocolate cake mix and fold in chocolate chips for a fudgy variation.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Neiman Marcus Cake is perfect for:

• Holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter

• Bake sales or potlucks

• Dessert buffets

• Late-night cravings

Serve it:

• Chilled for a firmer, cheesecake-like texture

• Room temperature for full gooey softness

• Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an over-the-top treat

It also travels well, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This is a decadent treat — rich in fat and sugar, so a little goes a long way.

• Calories: ~400–500 per slice (based on 12 slices)

• Fats: High due to butter and cream cheese

• Protein: 4–6g from cream cheese and eggs

• Carbs: High, mostly from powdered sugar and cake mix

To lighten it slightly:

• Use low-fat cream cheese

• Use a reduced-sugar cake mix

• Cut into smaller portions — it’s very rich!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make Neiman Marcus Cake ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better after resting. Make it up to 2 days ahead and store covered in the fridge. Bring to room temperature or serve chilled.

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Q2: Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely. Wrap cooled slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

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Q3: Why is it called Neiman Marcus Cake?

The name isn’t officially tied to the brand, but it reflects the cake’s luxurious, over-the-top richness — like something you’d find at a high-end cafe.

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Q4: Can I use different cake mix flavors?

Yes! Butter, white, spice, or even chocolate cake mixes all work beautifully. Each variation gives the cake a new twist.

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Q5: What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Use full-fat, brick-style cream cheese for best results. Avoid whipped or spreadable types — they have too much air and moisture.

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Q6: How do I store leftovers?

Store tightly covered at room temperature for 1 day, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring to room temp before serving for best texture.

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Q7: Can I double the recipe?

Yes — use a sheet pan or two 9×13-inch pans. Bake time may increase by 5–10 minutes; check for golden edges and a soft, set center.

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