Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe
This homemade Neiman Marcus Cake Recipe delivers deep chocolate flavor using cocoa powder, butter, sugar, and eggs.
Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Saucepan (for melting butter)
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Ingredients:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Espresso powder ½ teaspoon for deeper chocolate flavor
- Chocolate ganache for serving
- Fresh berries or whipped cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides. This ensures a clean release later.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter gently. You want it fully melted but not sizzling. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Build the Chocolate Base
- Whisk the cocoa powder into the melted butter until smooth and glossy. The mixture should smell intensely chocolatey—this is where the magic starts.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Eggs
- Whisk in the sugar until fully incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The batter will become thick and shiny.
Step 5: Finish the Batter
- Stir in the vanilla extract, flour, and salt. Mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense in the wrong way.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly soft.
Step 7: Cool and Set
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan, then carefully invert onto a serving plate. This resting time allows the texture to settle into its signature richness.