Neiman Marcus Cake: A Sinful Decadence in Every Bite

Imagine walking into a cozy kitchen on a weekend morning, with the rich aroma of chocolate filling the air and sheer indulgence awaiting you at the table. The Neiman Marcus Cake is one of those nostalgic recipes that seems to bring everyone together, inviting laughter and conversation with every bite. This delightful cake—delicately soft, luxuriously chocolatey, and beautifully embellished by the crunch of walnuts—makes it ideal for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or those cozy self-care days when only chocolate will do.

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Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (plus cooling time)
Servings: 10-12
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 20g

Why Make This Recipe

The Neiman Marcus Cake is an easy yet impressively scrumptious cake that has it all: moist tenderness, luscious chocolate flavor, and a wonderful aroma that fills your space with warmth. It’s best served on weekends when you have a bit more time to savor each delicious bite—accompanied by a steaming cup of coffee or tea while taking a moment to unwind. The comforting taste makes it a family favorite and a perfect dessert for any occasion.

How to Make Neiman Marcus Cake

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup walnuts (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a bundt pan.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in buttermilk and vanilla extract until fully combined.
In another bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined (don’t overmix!).
Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts, if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool before serving. Enjoy your Neiman Marcus Cake!

Baking Tips

Don’t overmix the batter; it can lead to a dense cake.
To test doneness, stick a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done!

How to Serve

Serve the Neiman Marcus Cake plain for an effortless treat, or dress it up with a drizzle of chocolate ganache. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. It’s also fantastic toasted with a bit of honey on the side for breakfast!

How to Store

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps well for about a week.
Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn!

Expert Tips

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better rise.
Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut for a twist.
Choose fresh quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.

Delicious Variations

Vegan Version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and eggs with flax eggs or applesauce.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
Cinnamon Swirl: Add cinnamon into the batter for a unique flavor combination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other nuts?
Yes! Pecans work really well in this cake, or you can skip nuts altogether for a nut-free version.

Why is it dry or dense?
Overmixing the batter or not measuring your flour correctly can lead to a dry cake. Stick to the instructions, and you’ll be fine!

What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be cubed and used in a delightful trifle with pudding and whipped cream.

Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes, you can use frozen butter, but make sure not to use frozen eggs or buttermilk—these should be at room temperature for proper mixing.

Conclusion

The Neiman Marcus Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a warm hug in cake form, perfect for gatherings or quiet moments with a cup of tea. We invite you to try this delightful recipe and experience its chocolatey goodness. Share your thoughts or variations, and let’s spread the joy of baking together! Happy baking!