Neiman Marcus Cake: The Ultimate Gooey Cake Recipe for a Rich Cake Bar Everyone Loves
Jump to RecipeThis Rich Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe Is the Indulgence You Didn’t Know You Needed
There’s a reason this dessert has become a Southern legend — the Neiman Marcus cake isn’t just a sweet treat; it’s an ooey gooey invitation to indulge. Known by many names (some call it chess bars, others gooey butter cake, and yes, even Mama Alice’s Neiman Marcus cake), this rich cake manages to balance fluffy cake layers with a tangy cream cheese topping that’s downright addictive. It’s perfect for any occasion — whether you’re feeding a crowd or sneaking a midnight slice with a fork straight from the pan.
At its core, the Neiman Marcus cake recipe is all about transformation: how simple ingredients come together to create something unexpectedly decadent. Start with a box yellow or white cake mix (or try different cake mix flavors like chocolate cake or spice cake for a twist), and you’ve got the foundation. Combine the cake mix with melted butter, eggs, and a dash of vanilla extract to make the cake bottom — a slightly gooey, chewy base that’s part cake, part cookie bar. That’s your bottom layer.
But what really makes the cake is the sweet cream cheese topping. You’ll beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add the powdered sugar (yes, you’ll want the full cups of powdered sugar), eggs, and vanilla extract again. This becomes the cream cheese layer — creamy texture, sweet-tangy flavor, and golden brown on top after you bake in the preheated oven. Pour over cake batter in your prepared pan and don’t forget: chopped nuts or chopped pecans add a crunchy contrast if you’re making the Neiman Marcus cake with nuts.
Want to make Neiman Marcus at home? Mix cake mix, pour over cake, add the cream cheese, then bake. That’s it. This box cake shortcut makes it totally accessible — no fancy steps, just a boxed cake mix and a cheese topping. The top of the cake batter puffs slightly and crackles into that iconic flaky top while the middle stays ooey, almost custard-like. The result? A gooey cake experience that’s part bar, part rich cake, and entirely irresistible.
So why is it called Neiman Marcus cake? That’s a whole story in itself — tied to myth, legend, and that classic American mix of luxury and comfort food. Some believe it came from a copycat butter cake served in-store. Others say it was just a clever name for a Southern gooey bar. Either way, this cake is a must-try.
Call it what you want — Neiman Marcus bar, gooey butter cake, or simply the best Neiman Marcus cake recipe easy enough for beginners — just don’t skip the airtight container after baking. That creamy cheese topping keeps its texture best when stored properly. And trust me, once you’ve had a bite, this isn’t just another cake recipe. It’s the one you’ll keep coming back to.
Ingredients for This Gooey Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe
To make Neiman Marcus cake that lives up to its ooey gooey reputation, you don’t need a long shopping list or fancy tools. In fact, the beauty of this gooey cake recipe lies in how fast and easy it is to prepare — especially with a boxed cake mix as the base. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
Use a classic box yellow or white cake. This forms the sturdy, slightly chewy cake bottom. Different cake mix flavors (like chocolate cake) also work if you want to change things up. - 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted
Melted butter adds rich flavor and helps the base form that perfect dense-yet-soft consistency. It also contributes to that buttery dessert taste. - 3 large eggs
Two go into the cake batter, one into the cheese topping. They help bind and enrich both layers. - 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
This is the heart of your cream cheese layer — sweet, tangy, and smooth when blended. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth for the ideal topping texture. - 4 cups of powdered sugar
Yes, it seems like a lot — but it’s crucial to achieving that sweet cream cheese topping that sets beautifully and bakes to a golden brown. - 1 tsp vanilla extract
Adds warmth and balance to both the bottom and top layers. It brings out the richness of the cake mix and the creamy texture of the topping. - 1/2 to 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
If you’re making a Neiman Marcus cake with nuts, these add crunch and a touch of earthiness to contrast the gooey filling. Chopped nuts also give it a Southern bakery feel.
This cake mix-based dessert is a prime example of how simple ingredients come together to make something unforgettable. Want to make Neiman Marcus cake feel even more luxurious? Try sprinkling some extra pecans over the top of the cake batter before baking in the preheated oven. The result is a gooey butter cake so good, it might just rival the most moist chocolate cake out there.
Can I use a different cake mix instead of yellow?
Yes — while yellow cake mix is traditional and creates that iconic Neiman Marcus bar flavor, feel free to experiment. White cake mix gives a lighter taste, while chocolate cake makes for a rich, decadent twist. Just make sure to mix well and stick to the same proportions.
How to Make Neiman Marcus Cake from a Box Cake Mix
Making Neiman Marcus cake isn’t just easy — it’s almost foolproof. Thanks to the boxed cake mix shortcut, you can whip up this gooey cake with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Here’s how to turn those simple ingredients into a rich cake that’s worthy of any celebration — or a Tuesday night craving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and prep your baking dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (the gold standard for most home baking). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment for easy removal later. - Combine the cake mix base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, 2 eggs, and melted butter. Mix well until a thick, sticky dough forms — this is your cake bottom. Press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
- Make the cream cheese topping
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, 1 egg, and vanilla extract. Beat until light and creamy. This is your sweet cream cheese topping that will form the signature cream cheese layer.
- Pour over the cake batter
Gently spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the cake layer. If you’re using chopped pecans or chopped nuts, sprinkle them over the top of the cake batter now.
- Bake in the preheated oven
Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly puffed. The center should still jiggle just a bit — that’s how you get the ooey gooey texture Neiman Marcus bars are known for.
- Cool completely before cutting
Let the cake cool in the pan. For the cleanest slices, refrigerate for an hour or so before cutting. Store in an airtight container to preserve the creamy texture of the topping.
This boxed cake mix method is truly a lifesaver when you want bakery-quality results without the fuss. You’ll get a dense, chewy cake bottom, a slightly gooey cheese topping, and that golden flaky finish that makes this a crowd-favorite. Whether you call it Neiman Marcus butter cake, gooey butter cake, or simply “the cake,” this recipe is a must-try.
What makes this different from other gooey butter cakes?
This cake is called Neiman Marcus not just because of its richness — but also due to its luxe, layered contrast. The cream cheese layer adds a tang you won’t find in simpler bar recipes, and the addition of chopped nuts takes the texture up a notch. It’s buttery, slightly chewy, and just a bit ooey in all the right ways.
Tips to Make the Perfect Neiman Marcus Cake Bar
To make Neiman Marcus bars that hit all the right notes — chewy bottom, gooey top, golden edges — it helps to go beyond the basics. This isn’t just any cake recipe; it’s a layered dessert that walks the line between cake, cookie bar, and custard. Here’s how to nail it every time.
Don’t Skip the Room Temp Rule
To get a smooth, luxurious cream cheese layer, make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. Cold cream cheese leads to lumps, and that throws off the silky finish this gooey cake is known for. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth before you add the powdered sugar — trust us, this step alone makes a huge difference.
Press the Cake Mix Firmly
When pressing your cake mix and melted butter base into the pan, take a moment to make sure it’s even. The goal is to create a consistent cake bottom that can support the weight of the topping without baking unevenly.
Don’t Overbake the Top
Here’s the trick to keeping the center gooey without turning into raw batter: bake until the top is golden brown and the edges pull slightly from the pan. The middle should still jiggle slightly. This gives you that classic Neiman Marcus cake texture — ooey in the center, just firm enough on top.
Optional But Game-Changing: Chopped Nuts
Want to give your Neiman Marcus cake recipe a bakery-style finish? Toss some chopped pecans or other chopped nuts on top of the cream cheese topping before baking. It adds crunch, visual contrast, and makes it feel extra indulgent.
Use a Lined or Greased Baking Dish
For easy removal, line your baking dish with parchment or foil. This helps you lift the entire cake out once cooled, making clean slicing a breeze. Just make sure to grease the sides if skipping the liner — you don’t want that rich cake sticking to the pan.
This isn’t just any boxed cake mix dessert — it’s a creamy, chewy, buttery dessert layered with contrast. And when you make Neiman Marcus cake bars right, they truly become a standout on any dessert table. They’re perfect for holidays, potlucks, birthdays, or — let’s be honest — Tuesday.
What if my Neiman Marcus bar turns out too runny?
That usually means it was underbaked. Make sure to bake in the preheated oven until the top looks set and slightly golden. Also, allow it to cool completely before slicing — the gooey cake needs time to firm up. And always store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain texture.
Flavor Variations for This Rich Gooey Cake Recipe
The classic Neiman Marcus cake is unforgettable — but what if you want to mix it up a bit? The base recipe is so forgiving, it practically invites creativity. Whether you’re craving chocolate, going gluten-free, or just feeling adventurous, this gooey cake is the perfect canvas. Here’s how to make a different cake without losing that signature rich texture.
Try a Different Cake Mix Flavor
The standard yellow cake mix creates that nostalgic base we all know, but don’t stop there. Mix cake mix flavors to personalize your Neiman Marcus bar:
- Chocolate cake mix = deep, brownie-like richness
- Spice cake mix = warm fall vibes with cinnamon undertones
- White cake mix = extra light and fluffy cake layer
- Lemon cake mix = tangy-sweet contrast with the cream cheese topping
Whichever boxed cake mix you choose, just make sure to mix well and stick to the original proportions. The results? A moist, flavorful twist on the original Neiman Marcus butter cake recipe.
Add Texture with Toppings and Mix-ins
Besides chopped pecans, try mixing in:
- Mini chocolate chips for extra decadence
- Shredded coconut for texture
- A swirl of jam or Nutella on top of the cake batter before adding the cheese topping
This approach works well for seasonal themes — raspberry swirls in summer, caramel chips in fall, crushed candy cane in winter. A few small tweaks can turn the original Neiman Marcus cake into a new crowd-pleaser each time.
Adjust for Special Diets
Want to make a gluten-free version? Use your favorite gluten-free box cake mix (yellow or white works best) and double-check all labels on your powdered sugar and cream cheese for compliance. You’ll still get that gooey butter cake texture — just without the gluten.
These changes let you personalize the cake without compromising its essence: that rich cake base topped with creamy, slightly gooey, sweet cream cheese. Whether you’re reimagining Mama Alice’s Neiman Marcus cake or creating a whole new version, these tweaks help it stay fresh, exciting, and absolutely addictive.
Can I make this without cream cheese?
Technically yes, but you’d lose the key flavor that defines a Neiman Marcus cake. Some have tried mascarpone or Greek yogurt as a substitute, but nothing quite replicates the sweet tang of the classic cream cheese topping. If dairy is an issue, vegan cream cheese can be used — just be sure to adjust sweetness and texture expectations accordingly.
Rich Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe (From Scratch)
Rich Neiman Marcus Cake
A Southern classic known for its ooey-gooey texture, this Neiman Marcus Cake blends rich yellow cake with a sweet cream cheese topping for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
Bottom Layer:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Top Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ to 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 16 Serving Size: 1 SliceAmount Per Serving: Calories: 420Total Fat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 250mgCarbohydrates: 55gNet Carbohydrates: 55gFiber: 0gSugar: 45gSugar Alcohols: 0gProtein: 4g
Nutrition information is estimated based on standard ingredients and serving size. For the most accurate data, consult your nutrition app or tools.
Neiman Marcus Cake FAQs
You’ve got your cream cheese, your box cake, your gooey cake instincts… but a few questions might still be baking in your brain. Let’s tackle the most common ones before you mix cake mix and dive into that sweet, rich Neiman Marcus cake.
Why is it called Neiman Marcus cake?
The name sparks curiosity — and sometimes controversy. The cake is not officially affiliated with Neiman Marcus stores, but legend has it someone tried to mimic a luxe dessert from their café menu, resulting in this decadent, buttery dessert. Over time, it picked up the moniker “Neiman Marcus cake,” and it stuck. The mix of indulgent ingredients, a rich cake bottom, and a tangy cream cheese topping fits the luxury branding vibe — even if the story varies.
What does Neiman Marcus cake taste like?
It tastes like the sweet child of a cheesecake and a blondie bar. The bottom layer is dense and buttery, thanks to the cake mix and melted butter, while the top is a sweet cream cheese blend — fluffy on the surface, slightly gooey underneath. It’s chewy at the edges, soft in the center, with a golden brown top that crackles when cooled.
What is the secret ingredient to a moist cake?
In this case, it’s the cream cheese. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and mix well with powdered sugar — it holds moisture like a charm. The extra egg in the topping also adds richness, while melted butter ensures the bottom doesn’t dry out.
Why do we always bake at 350?
Because it’s the Goldilocks of oven temps — not too hot, not too cool. Baking at 350°F allows the cake batter to set slowly, which is crucial when dealing with layered cakes like this one. If your oven runs hot, use an oven thermometer to avoid overbaking that ooey, cream cheese topping.
Is Neiman Marcus cake the same as gooey butter cake?
They’re close cousins, but not identical. Gooey butter cake typically uses a slightly different topping ratio and doesn’t always include extras like pecans. Neiman Marcus bars, on the other hand, are almost always built on a yellow cake mix, have that iconic cream cheese topping, and often come dusted with myth and nostalgia.
How to Store Neiman Marcus Cake Bars
You’ve just baked a rich, golden brown Neiman Marcus bar with a gooey cake center and that irresistible cream cheese topping — but what if you don’t eat it all in one sitting? (Unlikely, but hey, let’s be prepared.) Storing it properly ensures that creamy texture and soft cake bottom stick around for round two.
At Room Temperature
If you plan to devour your Neiman Marcus cake within 24 to 36 hours, storing it at room temp is totally fine. Just make sure the bars are fully cooled, cut, and stored in an airtight container. This helps maintain the gooey butter cake texture and keeps that sweet cream cheese layer from drying out.
In the Fridge
For longer freshness (up to 5–7 days), refrigerate your Neiman Marcus bars in a sealed, airtight container. The cream cheese layer holds up beautifully when chilled and firms up just enough for perfect slicing. Bonus: some fans swear it tastes even better cold.
Can You Freeze Neiman Marcus Cake?
Absolutely. This cake is surprisingly freezer-friendly. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or zip bag. They’ll keep for up to a month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and let sit at room temp for 30 minutes. That soft, slightly gooey center will bounce back like a charm.
Reheating Tips (Optional)
Want that fresh-baked feel again? Pop a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. It softens the cake bottom and slightly warms the cream cheese topping — just enough to give it that ooey finish without melting the structure.
Neiman Marcus cake is more than a one-day dessert. Whether you store it for tomorrow or stash it for next month, keeping it in an airtight spot is key. The combination of cake mix and cream cheese stays magic — as long as you treat it with a little love.
Can I freeze the whole cake uncut?
Yes, but cutting it first makes thawing and serving easier. If you do freeze it whole, wrap the entire baking dish (once fully cooled) in plastic wrap and foil. Just be sure to let it defrost slowly in the fridge and then come to room temperature before slicing.
Nutrition for This Rich Cake Recipe
Let’s be real: no one reaches for a slice of Neiman Marcus cake expecting a low-calorie snack. This is a rich cake — a gooey, buttery dessert that exists purely to delight. Still, it’s good to know what you’re getting per slice, especially if you’re planning to share it or savor it over a few days.
Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (based on 16 slices from a 9×13-inch pan):
- Calories: ~420
- Total Fat: ~20g
- Saturated Fat: ~10g
- Cholesterol: ~85mg
- Sodium: ~250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: ~55g
- Sugar: ~45g
- Protein: ~4g
The main calorie contributors? Unsurprisingly, it’s the cream cheese, melted butter, and cups of powdered sugar that give this cake its decadent punch. The cake mix also brings in sugar and starches, while eggs and chopped pecans (if used) add both fat and protein.
If you’re looking for ways to lighten things up — not that we recommend messing with dessert magic — consider cutting smaller slices, using a lower-fat cream cheese alternative, or opting for half the nuts. But honestly? This boxed cake mix classic is meant to be ooey, rich, and unforgettable.
Is there a lower-sugar version of Neiman Marcus cake?
Yes — you can reduce the powdered sugar by 25% without ruining the cream cheese topping, though it will be slightly less set and less sweet. Another trick is to swap in a sugar substitute for part of the powdered sugar (Swerve works well for baking). But let’s be honest: part of what makes the Neiman Marcus cake recipe so legendary is its full-flavor, no-shortcut approach.
Back to RecipeOne Slice, Endless Memories: The Power of This Gooey Neiman Marcus Cake
Some desserts are just desserts. But Neiman Marcus cake? It’s a memory waiting to happen. Maybe it’s the way the cream cheese melts into the cake mix base to create that signature gooey cake magic. Maybe it’s how a handful of simple ingredients can make something that feels so nostalgic — so rich cake and indulgent — it has its own lore. (Seriously, why is it called Neiman Marcus cake? The mystery only adds to the charm.)
Whether you follow the original Neiman Marcus cake version or try a variation with chopped pecans, chocolate cake, or a different cake mix flavor, one thing stays true: this cake recipe is more than the sum of its parts. It’s what happens when you make the cake that everyone ends up asking about. The one that disappears first from the table. The one that quietly says, “Yeah, I made that.”
So now it’s your turn. Bake it. Taste it. Share it. Maybe even tell your own Neiman Marcus cake story. Just don’t forget to store leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any) in an airtight container — and save a slice for later. This cake is perfect, and it deserves a moment.
More Cake Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t miss some of our other favorite cake creations! Whether you’re in the mood for a rich chocolate treat or something light and fruity, there’s something here for every kind of cake lover:
- Try the ultra-moist Berry Chantilly Cake with whipped cream frosting
- Make a batch of Mini Bundt Cakes in lemon, chocolate, or vanilla
- Bake a gluten-free Fluffy Cloud Cake that’s soft as air
- Or go bite-sized with our Easy Cake Pops made from homemade chocolate cake
Explore more sweet ideas and let your next cake adventure begin!