Description
Neiman Marcus Cake is a rich and indulgent chocolate cake recipe featuring moist layers made from chocolate cake mix, filled with a creamy butter and powdered sugar filling, and topped with a smooth, glossy chocolate glaze. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent dessert treat.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake, if preferred)
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk
Chocolate Glaze
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Prepare Cake Batter: In a large bowl, mix the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract according to the instructions on the cake box or your homemade recipe. Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Pour and Bake: Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared pans. Place them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cakes: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool completely on wire racks before removing from the pans to prevent breaking.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add 1 tablespoon vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon milk, then continue beating until the filling becomes light and fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of the butter filling evenly on top. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and gently press down to sandwich the filling between the layers.
- Prepare Chocolate Glaze: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1/4 cup butter, stirring frequently until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons heavy cream to achieve a glossy, pourable glaze.
- Glaze the Cake: Pour the chocolate glaze evenly over the top of the assembled cake, letting it drip down the sides for a beautiful finish.
- Set and Serve: Allow the glaze to set at room temperature before slicing and serving for the best texture and presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute the cake mix with your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe if preferred.
- Ensure the cakes are completely cooled before filling and glazing to prevent melting or slipping.
- The chocolate glaze can be warmed slightly if it thickens too much before pouring.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips.
