Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of Neiman Marcus Cake. This iconic American dessert is a moist and fluffy chocolate cake layered with a smooth and creamy filling, topped with a velvety chocolate frosting. The cake is incredibly easy to make and is guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Perfect for any occasion, this Neiman Marcus Cake is a true treat for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
- For the cake:
- - 2 cups all-purpose flour
- - 2 cups granulated sugar
- - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- - 1 cup buttermilk
- - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- - 1 teaspoon baking soda
- - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- - 4 large eggs
- - 1/2 cup hot water
- For the filling:
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- - 2 cups powdered sugar
- - 1/4 cup milk
- - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the frosting:
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- - 1/4 cup whole milk
- - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- - 3 cups powdered sugar
- - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the softened butter, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes, until well combined.
- Stir in the hot water to the batter, making sure it is evenly mixed.
- Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the filling, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until creamy. Add in the milk and vanilla extract and beat until smooth.
- Once the cakes have cooled, spread the filling evenly on top of one cake layer. Place the other cake layer on top of the filling.
- To make the frosting, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the milk and cocoa powder until well combined.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat the frosting until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the frosting over the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Use a spatula to spread the frosting evenly on top and around the cake.
- Decorate the cake with chocolate shavings, if desired.
- Allow the cake to set for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve at room temperature and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Neiman Marcus Cake is rumored to have originated from a recipe sold at the Neiman Marcus department store in Dallas, Texas, although the store denies the story.
This cake is sometimes referred to as the "$250 Cake" because of an urban legend that claims a woman was charged $250 for the recipe after requesting it at the store.
The combination of rich chocolate cake, creamy filling, and decadent frosting makes Neiman Marcus Cake a beloved dessert for chocolate lovers everywhere.