Neiman Marcus Cake
A rich and indulgent dessert featuring layers of chocolate, nuts, and a divine cream cheese frosting, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)
For the Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in the chopped nuts.
Baking
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the layers cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting and Assembly
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of frosting on top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and then frost the top and sides of the cake.
Notes
For best results, ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature. Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.