Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe 🍰✨

The Neiman Marcus Cake is a decadent, rich dessert that is both easy to make and incredibly indulgent. With its layers of moist cake, velvety chocolate frosting, and irresistible flavor, this cake is a true showstopper. Originally made famous by the Neiman Marcus department store, it’s a chocolate lover’s dream and perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or any time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones.

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Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box (18.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (or your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe)
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or regular milk if buttermilk is unavailable)
• 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) hot water (or hot coffee for a richer flavor)

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (160g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (120g) brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips (for melting into the frosting)

For the Topping (Optional):

• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added texture and crunch)

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish or use parchment paper to line it.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, buttermilk, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix using a hand mixer or whisk until the batter is smooth and well combined. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is incorporated.
3. Add the hot water (or hot coffee) to the batter and stir gently to combine. The batter will be thin, but this is normal and helps create a moist cake.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Frosting

1. While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the powdered sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and unsweetened cocoa powder.
2. Stir the mixture continuously until it comes to a simmer and thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the vanilla extract and salt. Stir until the frosting is smooth and well-combined.
4. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the frosting and stir until they melt completely and the frosting is smooth and glossy.
5. Allow the frosting to cool for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly and reaches a spreadable consistency.

Step 3: Frost the Cake

1. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the chocolate frosting generously over the top of the cake using a spatula or butter knife. Make sure to cover the entire surface evenly.
2. If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the frosting for added texture and flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Allow the frosting to set for a few minutes before cutting into squares or slices.
2. Serve the Neiman Marcus Cake with a cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or just enjoy it on its own for a delicious dessert.

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Storage Tips:

✔ Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days. ✔ Refrigerator: You can store the cake in the fridge for up to 1 week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. ✔ Freezer: This cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

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Tips & Variations:

✔ Flavor Variations: If you prefer a different frosting, you can swap the chocolate frosting for a cream cheese frosting or whipped cream frosting. ✔ Coconut Twist: Add toasted coconut flakes on top for extra flavor and texture. ✔ Mini Version: Make this cake as mini individual cakes by using muffin tins or cupcake pans for a fun twist!

This Neiman Marcus Cake is sure to become a favorite, thanks to its moist chocolate layers, rich frosting, and irresistible taste. Whether you're serving it at a party or just enjoying a slice at home, it’s sure to please everyone who tries it! Enjoy! 😊