Introduction
The Neiman Marcus Cake is a delightful dessert that has captivated taste buds with its rich and gooey texture. This cake combines the convenience of a cake mix with the indulgent layers of cream cheese, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this cake promises to deliver a delicious result that will leave everyone asking for more.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The Neiman Marcus Cake is often associated with the luxury department store, Neiman Marcus. However, the origin of this cake is shrouded in mystery, as there are no official records tying it directly to the store. It is believed that the cake gained popularity through word of mouth and became a beloved recipe among home bakers. Its cultural significance lies in its ability to bring people together, as it is often shared during celebrations and gatherings.
Ingredients Quantity
To make the Neiman Marcus Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 box cake mix (any flavor)
- 1 stick butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (16 oz) box powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
Optional Additions
While the traditional Neiman Marcus Cake is delicious on its own, there are several optional additions you can consider to add a unique twist:
- Chocolate chips for a rich, chocolaty flavor
- Coconut flakes for a tropical touch
- Fruit preserves for a fruity surprise in every bite
- Crushed cookies for extra crunch
Tips for Success
To ensure your Neiman Marcus Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:
- Make sure to soften the cream cheese at room temperature to avoid lumps in the mixture.
- Use a quality cake mix for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overbake the cake; the center should remain slightly soft for the signature gooey texture.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to achieve clean cuts.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, melted butter, and eggs until a thick batter forms.
- Fold in the chopped nuts.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- In another mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and egg until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly golden. The center should still be a bit soft to give the cake its rich, gooey texture.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing. Serve as is or top with a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Description
The Neiman Marcus Cake is a decadent dessert that boasts a rich, buttery base topped with a creamy, sweet layer of cream cheese. The addition of chopped nuts adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the gooey center. Each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an irresistible treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Nutritional Information
While indulging in the Neiman Marcus Cake, it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Here is a rough estimate per serving:
- Calories: 400
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 5g
Conclusion and Recommendation
The Neiman Marcus Cake is a timeless dessert that continues to impress with its simplicity and rich flavors. Whether you are baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or just to satisfy your own sweet cravings, this cake is sure to be a hit. I highly recommend giving this recipe a try and sharing it with loved ones to create lasting memories.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While the Neiman Marcus Cake is undeniably indulgent, there are ways to make it a bit more health-conscious without sacrificing flavor. Consider using low-fat cream cheese, reducing the amount of powdered sugar, or incorporating whole grain cake mix. These small adjustments can make a big difference in the nutritional profile of the cake while still delivering the deliciousness you crave.