Neiman Marcus Bars Recipe

If you’ve ever tried a Neiman Marcus Bar, you’ll know that it’s more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of heaven. With its rich, gooey texture and the perfect balance of sweetness and buttery goodness, it’s a treat that will have you coming back for more. The beauty of this recipe is that it combines simple ingredients, yet results in a mouth-watering bar that everyone will rave about. But there’s more to this dish than meets the eye, and today, we’re diving into everything you need to know to make the perfect Neiman Marcus Bars.

 

The Allure of Neiman Marcus Bars

You might be wondering, why are these bars called “Neiman Marcus”? Well, it’s a bit of a playful name that adds to the charm. While these bars don’t originate from the famous luxury department store, their decadence and richness inspired the name. They are so indulgent that it’s as if they’ve come straight from a high-end dessert menu.

These bars have become a popular choice for potlucks, family gatherings, and bake sales, and it’s easy to see why. They combine the elements of a chewy blondie and a rich cheesecake, creating a flavor profile that’s both comforting and indulgent. The beauty of the Neiman Marcus Bars lies in their simplicity—they are easy to make, require just a few ingredients, and are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Key Ingredients in Neiman Marcus Bars

Before we dive into the recipe itself, it’s important to know the key ingredients that make these bars so irresistibly good. Let’s break down what you’ll need for a batch of these delicious bars:

• Cream Cheese: A crucial ingredient for the creamy layer on top. It adds a smooth and tangy contrast to the buttery base.
• Unsalted Butter: This is used in the base and contributes to the bars’ melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Yellow Cake Mix: The shortcut ingredient that forms the foundation of the bars, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
• Eggs: Eggs are used both in the cake mix base and in the cream cheese layer, helping to bind everything together.
• Powdered Sugar: This is the star ingredient of the cream cheese layer, adding sweetness and smoothness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a hint of aromatic sweetness that complements the rich flavors of the bars.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to create the ultimate batch of Neiman Marcus Bars. But the recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about how they come together to create a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

 

Why You’ll Love Neiman Marcus Bars

• Rich and Gooey: If you have a sweet tooth, these bars are perfect for you. The thick, gooey layer on top is the perfect contrast to the slightly firm, buttery base. It’s like biting into a cloud of sweetness.
• Minimal Effort: You don’t need to be a skilled baker to master this recipe. With just a handful of ingredients and a few steps, you can create a dessert that will impress everyone.
• Large Yield: This recipe makes 24 bars, meaning it’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a party or bringing dessert to a gathering, you’ll have plenty to go around.
• Versatility: These bars are ideal for any occasion. They work just as well at a casual picnic as they do at a fancy dinner party. They’re versatile, making them a go-to for all kinds of events.

How to Make Neiman Marcus Bars: The Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s get into the fun part—the recipe! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of Neiman Marcus Bars ready to go in no time.

Ingredients:

• 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow cake mix
• 4 large eggs (divided)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 pound powdered sugar (about 4 cups)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Start by arranging a rack in the middle of the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.
2. Prepare the Pan:
   Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. The parchment paper should hang over the sides by about an inch to create a sling. This makes it easier to lift the bars out of the pan once they’re baked.
3. Make the Cake Layer:
   In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, yellow cake mix, and 2 of the eggs. Using an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer, beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth. The batter will be quite thick, so don’t worry if it’s not pouring consistency. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
   In the same bowl (no need to wash it), combine the cream cheese, the remaining 2 eggs, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture on medium-low speed until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times to ensure everything is well combined. Pour this cream cheese mixture over the cake batter and spread it out evenly.
5. Bake:
   Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know the bars are ready when the edges are golden brown, and the center is slightly jiggly when the pan is gently shaken. The jiggly center is key to getting that perfect, gooey texture.
6. Cool and Slice:
   Once the bars are done, remove them from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack to cool for about 2 to 3 hours. Once completely cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper sling. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into 24 equal pieces.

 

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Neiman Marcus Bars

To make sure your Neiman Marcus Bars turn out perfect every time, here are a few tips:

• Let the Cream Cheese Soften: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing it. This will help achieve a smooth and lump-free cream cheese layer.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can cause the bars to become dense. Be sure to mix just enough to combine the ingredients without overdoing it.
• Let the Bars Cool Completely: Although it’s tempting to dig in right away, allowing the bars to cool completely ensures they set properly and maintain their gooey texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality butter can make a big difference in the final taste of your bars.

Variations and Customizations: Make Neiman Marcus Bars Your Own

While the classic Neiman Marcus Bars recipe is already a delicious treat, there are plenty of ways to make this dessert even more unique and tailored to your tastes. Whether you want to add extra flavor, make it more decadent, or even give it a different texture, there are endless possibilities for customization. Let’s explore a few fun variations you can try!

1. Add Chocolate Chips:

Want to make your Neiman Marcus Bars even more irresistible? Add a handful of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips to the cake batter. The melting chocolate will blend seamlessly into the bars, giving them an extra layer of richness.

2. Use a Different Cake Mix:

While the yellow cake mix is classic for this recipe, you can easily switch things up by using a different flavor. Try a chocolate cake mix or even a spice cake mix for a unique twist. Chocolate cake mix will result in a chocolatey base, complementing the creamy topping even more.

3. Incorporate Nuts:

For a little crunch and texture, consider adding chopped nuts to the cake batter. Walnuts or pecans work especially well with the buttery base, offering a nutty contrast to the smooth cream cheese layer. You could even sprinkle them on top for a decorative touch.

4. Fruit Twist:

If you prefer fruitier desserts, adding berries or fruit preserves could be a great option. A dollop of raspberry jam on top of the cream cheese layer or fresh blueberries in the batter can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bars.

5. Go for a Salted Caramel Flavor:

Take your Neiman Marcus Bars up a notch by drizzling them with salted caramel after baking. The sweet and salty combination will make your bars even more addictive. You could either mix the caramel into the cream cheese layer or drizzle it on top after they’ve cooled.

 

Nutritional Breakdown of Neiman Marcus Bars

While Neiman Marcus Bars are undeniably delicious, it’s important to consider the nutritional content of these treats. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the calories and macronutrients for one serving (1 bar):

Nutrient	Amount (per bar)
Calories	350
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	65mg
Sodium	120mg
Total Carbohydrates	46g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	35g
Protein	3g

As you can see, these bars are rich in both calories and sugars, so they should be enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your caloric intake. But every now and then, it’s okay to indulge in a sweet treat like this!

How to Store Neiman Marcus Bars

Neiman Marcus Bars are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later if you have leftovers (though they rarely last long!). Here’s how you can store them properly:

Refrigeration:

Once the bars have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 1 week. The chilled bars will firm up a bit, so they are easy to cut and serve.

Freezing:

If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, Neiman Marcus Bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. They can be frozen for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator for about an hour or at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.

Why Neiman Marcus Bars are the Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

One of the best things about Neiman Marcus Bars is their versatility. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, attending a potluck, or simply craving something sweet at home, these bars fit the bill. They’re easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are guaranteed to please a crowd.

Perfect for Potlucks and Parties:

Because this recipe yields 24 bars, it’s an ideal choice for large gatherings. They’re easy to slice and serve, and their rich, indulgent flavor ensures they’ll be one of the first desserts to disappear.

Great for Gift Giving:

These bars also make for a thoughtful and delicious gift. Slice them up, wrap them in decorative cellophane, and they’ll be the perfect homemade gift for friends and family. Their rich flavor and beautiful presentation make them look like a professional bakery item.

Kid-Friendly:

Neiman Marcus Bars are a great option for families with kids. The sweet, buttery flavor is something kids will love, and since they’re so easy to make, they can even help out with the mixing and baking. It’s a fun, family-friendly dessert to enjoy together.

The History and Origin of Neiman Marcus Bars

Though the name “Neiman Marcus Bars” is widely known, you might wonder about their actual origin. While these bars are often associated with the upscale department store, the truth is that they aren’t from Neiman Marcus at all! This dessert is simply named after the store because it is as indulgent as some of the luxury offerings from their food department.

The creation of these bars is rooted in the tradition of “gooey butter cake,” a classic Midwestern dessert. Gooey butter cake is believed to have originated in St. Louis, Missouri, in the 1930s. The story goes that a baker accidentally used the wrong proportions of ingredients, leading to a deliciously gooey, buttery cake. Over time, variations of this cake emerged, and the Neiman Marcus Bars are a modern, simplified take on this beloved dessert.

Though the exact person who coined the name “Neiman Marcus Bars” remains unknown, it’s clear that the rich, luxurious taste of the bars has made them a crowd favorite. They continue to hold a special place in dessert history, and many people across the country now associate them with upscale gatherings and potlucks alike.

Why Neiman Marcus Bars Are the Ultimate Comfort Dessert

One of the reasons Neiman Marcus Bars remain so popular is their undeniable comfort factor. There’s something about the warm, gooey texture paired with the buttery, rich flavor that feels like a hug in dessert form. They offer the perfect balance between sweet and savory, chewy and creamy, which is why they appeal to a wide range of tastes.

These bars are also a perfect representation of comfort food—simple, nostalgic, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying them during the holidays, at a summer cookout, or as an afternoon snack, they provide a sense of indulgence without requiring complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

The Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Bars

Neiman Marcus Bars are delightful on their own, but they can be paired with a variety of drinks and sides to make your dessert experience even more special. Here are a few ideas for what to serve alongside these bars:

Coffee or Tea:

A cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea pairs beautifully with these bars. The bitterness of the coffee or the aromatic richness of tea balances out the sweetness of the bars, making for an elevated dessert experience. Try pairing with a medium roast coffee or an Earl Grey tea for the perfect match.

Ice Cream:

For an extra indulgence, serve Neiman Marcus Bars with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream complements the warm, gooey bars, creating a contrast in both temperature and texture. Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup for even more decadence.

Fresh Fruit:

If you’re looking to cut through the richness of the bars, fresh fruit is the way to go. A side of berries, sliced apples, or a fruit salad will add a refreshing touch and balance the dessert’s sweetness. Citrus fruits, like orange or lemon, offer a zesty contrast that pairs particularly well.

 

Final Thoughts on Neiman Marcus Bars Recipe

Neiman Marcus Bars are a dessert that everyone will love, no matter the occasion. With their gooey, indulgent texture and rich flavor, they’re sure to become a household favorite. Whether you make them as a treat for yourself or as a dessert for a gathering, these bars are always a hit. With minimal effort and just a few simple ingredients, you can create a decadent dessert that rivals even the most intricate cakes and pies.

If you’ve never made Neiman Marcus Bars before, it’s time to give them a try. This easy recipe is the key to impressing your guests and satisfying your cravings. Get ready for the deliciously gooey experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!