A boxed cake mix makes this retro dessert easier than ever.

Published on February 15, 2026

Credit:

Jake Sternquist / Food Styling: Ashley Sandoval

Never lose a BHG recipe again. Find a recipe you love on BHG.com? Click the heart icon to save it (and find it later) with MyRecipes.com.

Neiman Marcus Cake is a vintage dessert that's made with yellow cake, cream cheese, and plenty of butter. The result is a luscious layered dessert that's often called Gooey Butter Cake, especially in the Midwest. We'll walk you through how to make this nostalgic dessert (made easier with a cake mix), including tips for storing it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Serve on it's own, or top with sliced strawberries and whipped cream.

Keep Screen Awake

Ingredients

  • 1 (2-layer size) pkg. yellow cake mix

  • 4 eggs

  • 1/2 cup butter, melted

  • 1 (8-oz) pkg. cream cheese

  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract

  • 1/4 tsp. almond extract

  • 3 cups powdered sugar

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 13x9x2-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the parchment extend about 2 inches over two long sides of the pan; set pan aside.

  2. In a large bowl stir together cake mix, 2 eggs, and melted butter. (The batter will be stiff). Spread batter evenly into prepared pan. Rinse out bowl.

  3. In the same bowl beat cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium for 30 seconds. Add the remaining 2 eggs, vanilla, and almond extract. Beat until just combined. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until powdered sugar is incorporated. (Do not over-beat.) Spread this mixture over the batter in the pan.

  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack before cutting.

How to Store Neiman Marcus Cake

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or label and freeze up to 3 months.