Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Slice of Classic Neiman Cake on white plate

Classic Neiman Cake


  • Author: Savannah
  • Total Time: 40–45 minutes
  • Yield: 1012 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A rich, buttery, and moist cake with a tender crumb that has become a timeless favorite. Known as the Neiman Marcus Cake, it’s perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or a decadent dessert at home. This recipe can be made from scratch or with cake mix, and variations include chocolate, lemon, or caramel flavors.


Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one 9-inch round cake):

For the Cake:

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

  • 2 cups granulated sugar

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 cup whole milk

  • Optional: 2–3 tablespoons cocoa powder (for chocolate variation)

For the Frosting:

  • 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese or buttercream frosting, softened

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 23 tablespoons milk to adjust consistency

Optional Decorations:

  • Chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or caramel drizzle

  • Fresh fruit slices for garnish


Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Bake Cake

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round pan.

  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder if using.

  3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.

  4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternately with milk until smooth.

  5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.

Step 2: Frost Cake

  1. If desired, level the cooled cake with a serrated knife.

  2. Prepare frosting and adjust consistency with milk if needed.

  3. Apply a thin crumb coat and chill 15–20 minutes.

  4. Frost the cake fully and smooth with a spatula.

Step 3: Decorate (Optional)

  1. Add chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or caramel drizzle on top.

  2. Garnish with fresh fruit slices or nuts for an elegant touch.

Notes

  • From Scratch vs Mix: For a more authentic Neiman Marcus experience, try the butter cake recipe from scratch.
  • Flavor Variations: Lemon Neiman Cake or chocolate cake versions are great alternatives.
  • Make Ahead: Bake a day ahead and frost just before serving for best results.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert / Classic Cake
  • Method: Baked / Frosted / Decorated
  • Cuisine: American