This Neiman Marcus Cake is an old-school Southern gem that tastes like it came straight from a bakery — rich, gooey, and totally irresistible. With a buttery cake base, a tangy cream cheese top layer, and a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s the kind of recipe that never makes it to leftovers. My mom used to bring this to every church potluck, and I promise it’ll be the first thing gone at yours too!
💌 Love nostalgic, crowd-favorite cakes?
Why You’ll Love This Neiman Marcus Cake
This cake is sometimes called “gooey butter cake,” and it earns the title. It starts with a soft cake mix base, gets a layer of whipped cream cheese and powdered sugar, and bakes into something that’s soft, sweet, and golden on top. It’s rich, indulgent, and shockingly easy to make.
Taste & Texture: Gooey, fudgy, buttery base with a sweet cream cheese topping
Smell: Vanilla, caramelized sugar, and warm nostalgia
Perfect For: Potlucks, holidays, gifting, or sweet tooth emergencies
Ingredients List
- 1 box cake mix (any flavor — yellow, butter, chocolate, or spice)
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts, optional)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (16 oz) box powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
Substitutions:
- Use chocolate cake mix + walnuts for a brownie-like version
- Swap pecans for almonds
- Add ½ tsp vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor
Necessary Tools for Preparation
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Spatula
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Make the base layer: Mix cake mix, melted butter, and 2 eggs until well blended. Stir in chopped nuts if using. Spread evenly in the pan.
- Prepare the topping: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and 1 egg. Beat until fluffy.
- Pour topping over the cake layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until edges are set and center is golden but slightly jiggles (it will firm up as it cools).
- Cool completely in the pan. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing.
Tips for Perfecting the Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe
- Don’t overbake — the center should be just a bit gooey
- For clean cuts, chill the cake before slicing
- Use parchment for easy removal and presentation
- Top with toasted nuts for crunch
What to Serve With It
Pair this rich cake with:
- Hot coffee or espresso
- Fresh strawberries or raspberries
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Try more vintage-style bakes:
Storage Instructions
- Room Temp: Store covered for 1–2 days
- Fridge: Keeps well for up to 5 days
- Freezer: Freeze sliced pieces wrapped tightly for up to 2 months
General Information
This cake is rich, indulgent, and budget-friendly — no special ingredients required. It’s been a Southern classic since the 1970s and still goes viral today for good reason. Perfect for gifting or gatherings.
FAQ
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly less rich. Full-fat gives the best gooey texture.
What cake mix flavor works best?
Yellow cake is traditional, but chocolate, red velvet, or spice are all amazing.
Can I leave out the nuts?
Absolutely — it’s just as good without!
Conclusion
Neiman Marcus Cake is the definition of “simple but showstopping.” Whether you bring it to a potluck or keep it all for yourself (no judgment!), this gooey butter-style cake is guaranteed to win hearts. Try it and tag your bake on Pinterest so we can see your creation!
Print
Decadent Neiman Marcus Cake – Gooey, Buttery, and Totally Irresistible!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and gooey cream cheese-topped cake made with cake mix and pantry staples. This classic Neiman Marcus Cake is quick, crowd-pleasing, and unforgettable!
Ingredients
Base: 1 box cake mix, 1 stick butter, 2 eggs, 1 cup chopped nuts
Topping: 8 oz cream cheese, 16 oz powdered sugar, 1 egg
Instructions
Preheat oven to 175°C. Mix cake mix, butter, and eggs. Stir in nuts and press into greased 9×13 pan. Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and egg until fluffy. Spread on top. Bake 35–40 mins until golden. Cool and dust with powdered sugar.
Notes
Don’t overbake — center should jiggle. Best served chilled for clean slices. Great with chocolate or spice cake mix.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
