Neiman Marcus Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for rich, buttery desserts, the Neiman Marcus Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to treat. This luscious cake layers a dense, buttery base with an irresistibly creamy and gooey topping that melts in your mouth, capturing the very soul of indulgence. Every forkful offers a perfect balance of soft cake and sweet cream cheese filling that makes it impossible to stop at just one slice. Whether you’re reminiscing about your favorite Neiman Marcus bakery find or discovering this delight for the first time, this recipe brings a little slice of heaven right into your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping this cake simple is part of what makes it such a staple dessert. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—making sure the cake is moist, tender, and irresistibly gooey in all the right spots. Here’s everything you’ll want on hand before starting:

• Yellow cake mix: The base of the cake for that familiar sweet and tender crumb.
• Eggs: Four large eggs provide structure and richness; split between batter and topping.
• Butter: Half a cup of melted butter adds depth of flavor and keeps the cake moist.
• Vanilla extract: A teaspoon adds that warm, inviting aroma essential to bakery-style cakes.
• Confectioners’ sugar: Three and a half cups bring sweetness and help the gooey topping set perfectly.
• Cream cheese: Eight ounces, softened, create the signature creamy layer that gives this cake its name.

How to Make Neiman Marcus Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Batter

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13×9-inch baking pan to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, two eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. This batter will be unusually stiff compared to regular cake batters, so don’t be alarmed. Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. A handy tip: spray the back of your spatula with cooking spray so the batter slides smoothly without sticking.

Step 2: Make the Gooey Topping

In a separate bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, softened cream cheese, and the remaining two eggs until smooth. This luscious topping contrasts perfectly with the denser cake base and is the key to achieving that ooey gooey goodness.

Step 3: Layer and Bake

Pour the cream cheese topping evenly over the cake batter layer in your pan. Bake this beauty in your preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The magic happens as the creamy topping solidifies while remaining delectably soft.

Step 4: Cool Before Cutting

Let your cake cool completely in the pan before slicing. This step is essential to allow those layers to set perfectly so every piece holds its ooey gooey texture, making serving easier and tasting heavenly.

How to Serve Neiman Marcus Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a little decorative touch can elevate this already incredible cake. A light dusting of extra confectioners’ sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce adds elegance while complementing the cake’s sweetness beautifully. Fresh berries or a sprig of mint also make a fresh and colorful garnish, perfect for spring and summer gatherings.

Side Dishes

This cake is rich, so pairing it with light sides really works wonders. Consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a fruitier touch, a simple berry compote or sliced strawberries can cut through the richness and add delightful contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Try serving the cake in mini mason jars for individual portions, topped with fresh fruit and a sprig of mint. Or stack small square pieces with layers of whipped cream and berries for a stunning layered dessert that’s part cake, part trifle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover ooey gooey butter cake keeps beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also refrigerate it to extend freshness for up to five days—just be sure to bring it to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to regain that gooey texture.

Freezing

This cake freezes well if you want to make it ahead or save some for later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

To bring back the fresh-from-the-oven feel, warm slices gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. This helps the topping soften again while keeping the cake moist and delicious.

FAQs

Can I make this cake without a boxed cake mix?

Absolutely! While the yellow cake mix makes this recipe quick and easy, you can substitute with your favorite homemade yellow cake batter. Just make sure it’s stiff enough to hold the dense bottom layer.

Is cream cheese essential for the topping?

Yes, cream cheese is what gives the Neiman Marcus Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe its signature creamy texture and tangy sweetness. Replacing it would change the fundamental gooeyness and flavor profile.

Can I use a different size pan for baking?

The 13×9-inch pan is recommended for the best thickness and cooking time. Using a different size may require adjusting the baking time and could affect texture, so keep a close eye during baking.

Why is my cake not ooey and gooey?

If your topping is too firm or dry, it could be due to overbaking or too much flour in the batter. Follow the exact baking time and ingredient measurements for the perfect ooey gooey result.

Is this cake suitable for special occasions?

Definitely! Its rich, luxurious taste and beautiful layers make the Neiman Marcus Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe a wonderful choice for birthdays, holidays, or simply anytime you want to treat yourself and your loved ones.

Final Thoughts

There really is something magical about the Neiman Marcus Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Recipe that captures hearts and taste buds alike. It’s a deliciously rich, buttery cake with an irresistible sweet gooey topping that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a special event, this recipe delivers that perfect mix of comfort and indulgence. So go ahead, give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dessert to bake and share time and time again.

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