Delicious Classic to Celebrate

This Neiman Marcus Cake recipe has been my family's go-to celebration dessert for generations, combining the perfect balance of sweetness from the cake with a creamy frosting that brings everything together beautifully. Each time I serve this classic treat, it evokes memories of special gatherings and joyful occasions.

I first made this cake for my mother's birthday when I was just learning to bake. Despite my novice skills, it turned out wonderfully, and now it's requested at nearly every family gathering we have.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Creates a rich, moist texture and allows you to control the salt content
• Granulated sugar: Provides the perfect level of sweetness without being overwhelming
• Large eggs: Add structure and richness to the cake
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake providing the perfect structure
• Buttermilk: Creates tenderness and adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness
• Baking powder and baking soda: Work together to create the ideal rise and texture
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming them
• Chopped pecans: Add wonderful texture and nutty flavor throughout the cake
• Shredded coconut: Brings a tropical note and delightful chewiness
• Powdered sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet frosting without grittiness
• Cream cheese: Adds tangy richness to balance the sweet frosting
• Milk: Helps achieve the perfect spreading consistency in the frosting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F and properly prepare your cake pans with a thorough greasing and flouring. This critical first step ensures your beautiful cake will release cleanly after baking. I find that using a baking spray with flour works exceptionally well for intricate pans.

Cream Butter and Sugar:

Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together for a full 5 minutes until the mixture becomes noticeably lighter in both color and texture. This extended creaming process incorporates air into the butter which will help create a tender, fluffy cake. Do not rush this step as it forms the foundation of your cake's texture.

Add Eggs:

Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully absorbed into the batter. Adding them gradually prevents the mixture from curdling and ensures even distribution throughout the batter. Make sure each egg disappears completely before adding the next.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

Whisk the flour, baking powder, and baking soda together in a separate bowl until evenly distributed. This prevents clumping and ensures the leavening agents are evenly dispersed throughout the cake, resulting in an even rise.

Mix Wet Ingredients:

Combine the buttermilk and vanilla extract in a measuring cup, stirring briefly to blend. Having these wet ingredients premixed makes the alternating addition process smoother and prevents overmixing the batter.

Combine Mixtures:

Starting and ending with the dry ingredients, gradually add them to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk mixture. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated after each addition. This method prevents gluten development which could make your cake tough.

Fold in Nuts and Coconut:

Using a gentle folding motion with a rubber spatula, incorporate the chopped pecans and coconut until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Take care not to overmix, as this could deflate the air you've worked to incorporate.

Pour Batter:

Divide the batter equally between your prepared pans, using a kitchen scale if available to ensure perfectly even layers. Smooth the tops gently with an offset spatula for even baking.

Bake the Cake:

Place the pans in the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid opening the oven door during the first 20 minutes to prevent temperature fluctuations.

Cool Properly:

Allow the cakes to rest in their pans for exactly 10 minutes before removing. This cooling period allows the structure to set while still warm enough to release easily. Transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Make the Frosting:

Beat the cream cheese and butter together until completely smooth and free of lumps. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing thoroughly between additions. Incorporate vanilla and just enough milk to achieve a spreadable consistency that holds its shape.

Assemble the Cake:

Place one completely cooled layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting evenly across the top, then carefully position the second layer. Apply frosting to the top and sides of the cake using an offset spatula for a smooth or textured finish as desired.

Decorate:

For a finishing touch, consider sprinkling additional chopped nuts or coconut around the edges or top of the cake. This adds visual appeal and hints at the delicious ingredients inside.

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The pecans in this recipe are truly the star for me. My grandmother always insisted on toasting them lightly before adding them to the batter, claiming it brought out their natural oils and enhanced the flavor. That extra five-minute step has made all the difference in my cakes over the years.

Storage Solutions

This Neiman Marcus Cake maintains its moisture and flavor exceptionally well when stored properly. Keep the frosted cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days in a cake dome or container. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. The unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.

Perfect Pairings

This elegant cake deserves thoughtful accompaniments that complement its rich flavors. Serve with fresh berries or a berry compote to add a bright, acidic note that cuts through the sweetness. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast with the cake. For beverages, consider serving with a bold coffee, Earl Grey tea, or even a dessert wine like Sauternes for special occasions. The cake's nutty flavor profile also pairs beautifully with after-dinner liqueurs such as Amaretto or Frangelico.

Historical Background

The Neiman Marcus Cake gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s when department store tea rooms were social hubs for shoppers. Though the exact origin remains debated, many believe this cake was served at the Neiman Marcus department store in Dallas, Texas. Like the famous Neiman Marcus cookie recipe, this cake recipe was supposedly shared through community cookbooks and passed between friends. The combination of coconut and pecans reflects Southern baking traditions, where these ingredients were plentiful and commonly incorporated into special occasion desserts.

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This cake is always the perfect addition to celebrations, offering both nostalgia and incredible flavor in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute walnuts for pecans in the Neiman Marcus Cake?

Yes, walnuts make an excellent substitute for pecans in this cake. The recipe even mentions this as an option. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but equally delicious. Just make sure to chop them to a similar size as you would the pecans.

→ How do I know when the Neiman Marcus Cake is fully baked?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This should take approximately 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). The top should be golden brown, and the cake should spring back slightly when gently pressed in the center.

→ Can I make the Neiman Marcus Cake in advance?

Yes, this cake can be made 1-2 days in advance. After frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best flavor, bring it to room temperature about 30 minutes before serving. You can also bake the layers ahead and freeze them, tightly wrapped, for up to a month.

→ What is the origin of the Neiman Marcus Cake?

The Neiman Marcus Cake is named after the famous luxury department store. While there are several desserts associated with the Neiman Marcus name (including their famous cookies), this buttermilk cake with pecans and coconut has become a classic celebration dessert that shares the prestigious branding.

→ Can I make this cake without coconut?

Yes, you can omit the coconut if preferred. To maintain the proper texture, consider increasing the amount of chopped nuts by about 1/4 cup, or adding a different mix-in like mini chocolate chips. The cake will have a different flavor profile but will still be delicious.

→ How should I store leftover Neiman Marcus Cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cream cheese frosting requires refrigeration for food safety. For best taste and texture, allow slices to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.