This famous Neiman Marcus Cake is a rich, buttery coffee cake loaded with chocolate chips and a crunchy pecan-cinnamon streusel topping. Rumor has it this recipe was once sold for $250 (but you can make it for a fraction of the cost!).
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:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking pan.
- Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- 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.
- Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
