“Neiman Marcus Cake: A Decadent Chocolate Brownie Cake with a Creamy Walnut Topping”

Hello, Kitchies! If you’re in the mood for a rich, indulgent dessert that will impress your friends and family, look no further than Neiman Marcus Cake! This decadent cake is a delightful combination of moist chocolate brownie and a creamy, buttery topping loaded with crunchy walnuts. Often thought of as a restaurant-inspired classic, the Neiman Marcus Cake is perfect for any special occasion or simply enjoyed with a cup of coffee.

The legend behind the cake is as rich as its flavor, and it’s said to have been an infamous recipe from the Neiman Marcus Café, where the chocolate brownie layers were elevated with an irresistible topping. This cake is truly one-of-a-kind and will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.

So, let’s get started on creating this sensational Neiman Marcus Cake that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Recipe Summary: Neiman Marcus Cake

Description: A rich chocolate brownie cake topped with a creamy, walnut-laden frosting.

How to Make Neiman Marcus Cake

Simplified Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk (or as needed)
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking pan.
2. Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Mix sugars and eggs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Stir until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Add the vanilla extract.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
5. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. If using walnuts, gently fold them into the batter.
6. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
7. Make the frosting: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Add vanilla extract and enough milk to reach your desired spreading consistency.
8. Frost the cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top for added texture and flavor.
9. Serve: Cut into squares and serve with a glass of milk or your favorite coffee!

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Garnish with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant touch.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 30g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 150m

Tips and Variations:

• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
• Add flavor: For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract or espresso powder to the cake batter.
• Store leftovers: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

Closing for Neiman Marcus Cake

The Neiman Marcus Cake is a rich, chocolatey delight that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering! With its luscious brownie base and creamy walnut topping, this cake offers a delightful indulgence that you won’t soon forget. Have fun baking it, and don’t forget to share your delicios results with us!

Frequently Asked Questions for Neiman Marcus Cake

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

• While you can use margarine, butter offers better flavor and texture for this cake.

1. What can I substitute for walnuts?

• Pecans or almonds are great alternatives, or you can skip the nuts entirely for a nut-free version.

1. Can I use a different pan size?

• Yes, but be sure to adjust the baking time as needed. A smaller pan may require a longer bake time.

1. Is this cake better refrigerated or at room temperature?

• It is delicious at both temperatures! Refrigerating can enhance the flavor and keep the cake fresher longer.

1. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

• Ensure you grease and flour the pan thoroughly before pouring in the batter.

1. Can I frost the cake in advance?

• Yes! Frosted cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

1. Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

• Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips would enhance the chocolate flavor and provide extra gooeyness.

1. Is this cake suitable for freezing?

• Yes! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.

1. How can I make the frosting thicker?

• Add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired thickness.

1. Can I use a gluten-free flour mix?
   • Yes, as long as the mix includes a binding agent, it should work well in this recipe.