A Cake with Cult Status

Known for its indulgent simplicity, the Neiman Marcus Cake is a staple at potlucks and family gatherings across America. Its soft yellow base is elevated with a topping made from cream cheese, powdered sugar, and eggs—resulting in a gooey, almost cheesecake-like crown with a crispy golden edge.

What’s in a “1 oz cup”?

In this recipe, the term “1 oz cup” can cause confusion. For liquids, 1 ounce equals 2 tablespoons or 0.125 cups. It’s a small but powerful dose of flavor—especially when measuring vanilla extract or other potent ingredients. Always ensure you’re using the right measuring tools: fluid ounces for liquids and weight ounces for dry goods.

Ingredients Breakdown

• 1 box yellow cake mix (no pudding included)
• 1 stick butter, melted
• 4 eggs (divided)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (roughly 0.17 oz or 1/6 cup)
• 1 package cream cheese, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar

The base is made by combining the cake mix with melted butter, 2 eggs, and vanilla. Once pressed into a baking dish, the cream cheese, remaining eggs, and sugar are whipped together and spread on top. Bake until golden and set, with a slightly jiggly center.

How It Tastes

The bottom layer is dense and buttery, almost like a blondie. The top layer becomes gooey, sweet, and rich—somewhere between custard and frosting. Each bite balances soft and crisp textures, with the cream cheese lending just a touch of tang to cut through the sweetness.

Serving and Storage Tips

Let the cake cool completely before cutting to achieve clean slices. It stores beautifully in the fridge for up to five days—if it lasts that long. Serve chilled or slightly warmed for extra decadence.

More Sweet Inspiration

Looking for more rich, crowd-pleasing bakes? Explore our chocolate zucchini cake or dive into the world of giant cookies that deliver maximum comfort in every bite.

Final Thought

Neiman Marcus Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a decadent bite of tradition. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or indulging solo, this luscious, layered cake makes a statement. And remember: when the recipe calls for “1 oz cup,” think small, think potent, and savor every spoonful.