Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe

Name: Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the decadent delight of Neiman Marcus Cake, a three-layer chocolate cake that features rich chocolate goodness and a luscious buttery cream cheese frosting. This beloved dessert is a crowd-pleaser, making it the perfect addition to any celebration or simply as a treat for yourself. Elevate your baking game with this unforgettable recipe that brings a taste of luxury to your kitchen.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2025-12-10T10:36:36.249Z

This cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

A Luxurious Layered Experience

Neiman Marcus Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture. The combination of rich chocolate layers paired with a creamy, velvety cream cheese frosting creates a luxurious experience that tantalizes the taste buds. Each bite offers a balance of sweetness and decadence, making it an indulgent treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself, this cake will elevate your dessert game and impress your guests.

The three-layer construction of this cake adds visual appeal in addition to flavor. Layers of fluffy chocolate cake are separated by generous amounts of frosting, creating a stunning presentation that’s guaranteed to draw admiration. The texture of the cake is soft and moist, providing an excellent contrast to the rich frosting. When you slice into this cake, the beautiful layers are revealed, promising a delightful combination of tastes and textures in every piece.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the standout features of Neiman Marcus Cake is its versatility. This cake is perfect for a variety of events—from weddings and anniversaries to casual gatherings and holidays. Its classic chocolate flavor appeals to a wide audience, ensuring that everyone will enjoy a slice. You can easily customize the recipe by adding your own twist, such as incorporating caramel, nuts, or even fresh fruit between the layers, allowing you to make it your own.

If you’re looking to impress, consider serving Neiman Marcus Cake at your next event. It pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine, making it not only a fantastic dessert option but also a delightful after-meal treat. Your guests will marvel at the luxurious taste and beautiful presentation, making it a surefire hit, whether it’s at a formal dinner or a simple family gathering.

Baking Tips and Tricks

Ingredients

Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

Frosting

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water.

Bake the Cake

Pour batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa, and vanilla, beating until smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread frosting on top. Repeat with second layer, then top with the third layer. Frost the top and sides.

Let the cake sit for an hour before slicing for best results.

Storage Tips for Neiman Marcus Cake

Once you've made your Neiman Marcus Cake, storage is key to maintaining its delicious flavor and texture. Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you find it’s not going to be eaten within that timeframe, you can refrigerate it. However, be aware that refrigeration may alter the texture of the frosting, making it a bit firmer.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight freezer bag. This method keeps the cake fresh and allows you to enjoy a slice whenever you crave a taste of its indulgence.

Serving Suggestions

This decadent cake pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. A dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side can add a lightness to the rich chocolate and cream cheese frosting. For a little crunch, consider scattering some toasted nuts on top or alongside the cake. They will add a lovely texture that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cake.

If you want to get fancy, drizzling a chocolate ganache or caramel sauce over each slice right before serving can elevate the dish even further. Garnishing with fresh berries or mint leaves not only enhances the visual appeal but adds a refreshing flavor that complements the chocolaty richness of Neiman Marcus Cake perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different frosting?

Yes, you can use chocolate ganache or a simple buttercream as alternatives.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.