Neiman Marcus Cake (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cake

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 2 cups granulated sugar
03 - 4 large eggs
04 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
05 - 1 cup buttermilk
06 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
07 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - 1 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)
10 - 1 cup shredded coconut

→ Frosting

11 - 2 cups powdered sugar
12 - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
13 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
14 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
15 - 2 tablespoons milk

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
02 - In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
03 - Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
05 - In a measuring cup, mix the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
06 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk mixture. Begin and end with the flour mixture, stirring just until combined.
07 - Gently fold in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
08 - Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
09 - Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10 - Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
11 - In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Add vanilla extract and enough milk to reach desired consistency.
12 - Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake.
13 - Optionally, sprinkle additional chopped nuts or coconut on top of the frosted cake for a decorative finish.

# Notes:

01 - This cake is also known as the '$250 Cookie Recipe' cake, based on a popular urban legend about an expensive recipe from Neiman Marcus.
02 - The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.