Linda CainWhen preparing a delectable dessert like Neiman Marcus Lemon Cake, I often find myself at a crossroads. What pairs well with such a vibrant and zesty cake? Well, let me share a few suggestions. You might consider a light, whipped cream topping or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the cake’s flavors.
Fresh berries can also bring a delightful burst of color and flavor to your plate, while a cup of fragrant herbal tea complements the cake’s deliciousness beautifully. Now, let’s dive deeper into the story of this delightful lemon cake.
One sunny afternoon, a friend of mine raved about the Neiman Marcus Lemon Cake. She had tasted it at a celebratory gathering and couldn’t stop talking about how the cake was rich, creamy, and balanced out with a perfect hint of tartness. Naturally, her enthusiasm sparked my interest, and soon I couldn’t wait to whip one up myself.
The Neiman Marcus Lemon Cake recipe is not just any ordinary dessert. It has roots in a prestigious department store known for its luxurious offerings and culinary delights. What makes this cake so special is the balance of flavors achieved through simple yet effective ingredients. Here, I’ll take you through the recipe while also sharing insights from my personal baking journey. Trust me; you’re going to want this cake at your next gathering.
Why Does This Recipe Work?
Baking can sometimes feel like a science experiment, and this recipe hits all the right notes. Here’s why it works so well:
1. Balanced Ingredients: This cake harmonizes creaminess and freshness. The butter and cream cheese create a lush texture, while the lemon zest and juice introduce a bright, tangy flavor.
2. Simple Steps: The process is straightforward. Even if you are a novice baker, easy instructions make this cake accessible.
3. Versatility: You can enjoy this cake year-round. It’s delightful in the summer, refreshing at a holiday dessert table, or just a great choice for a casual weeknight celebration.
4. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The lemon flavor excites the palate. It’s vibrant and fresh yet comforting, appealing to a wide range of taste preferences.
How Does It Taste?
This cake is a burst of sunshine on a plate. When you take your first bite, the creamy texture melts in your mouth. The brightness from the lemon doesn’t overpower; it merely dances alongside the richness of the cream cheese. The sweetness from the powdered sugar coats your palate without making you feel overwhelmed. Each forkful leaves you wanting just a little more.
When I shared this cake with friends, the shared excitement was palpable. Would you believe I witnessed the last slice disappear in a matter of seconds? It’s that good!
What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Neiman Marcus Lemon Cake Variations?
Many variations exist for lemon cake recipes, but this Neiman Marcus version stands out. The incorporation of cream cheese into the batter provides an incredible depth of flavor and an unexpected creaminess. Most recipes lean on just oil or butter.
Another differentiating factor is how the cake isn’t just a standalone dessert. It’s versatile enough to serve as a base for exciting layer cakes or trifles. Plus, the texture is moist but not overly dense or dry, often seen in other recipes.
The Ingredients
To create this masterpiece, you will need:
- 1/2 to 1 cup of butter (or 1/2 to 1 cup of margarine)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 (18-ounce) box of cake mix (choose chocolate or lemon for flavor—though lemon is preferred here)
- 1 (1-pound) box of powdered sugar
Pretty simple, right? You’ll find these ingredients in your kitchen or local grocery store with little hassle.
Instructions
Step 1: Preparation
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans. This step is crucial to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter and cream cheese until smooth. This process should take about 2-3 minutes. You want to create a fluffy texture that will add richness to the cake.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. The eggs contribute to the cake’s height and texture, so be thorough here.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the cake mix and sour cream. Gradually add this mixture to your wet batter using a spatula. Fold gently until just combined. This will prevent overmixing, which could lead to a tough cake.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Frost
Once cooled, frost the top of one cake layer with your choice of frosting (traditional cream cheese frosting works wonders). Place the second layer on top and frost the sides and top of the cake generously.
Notes
Here are some helpful tips to elevate your baking experience:
- Sift Your Powdered Sugar: This removes lumps and results in a smoother frosting.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your butter, eggs, and cream cheese to come to room temperature. This creates a more uniform batter.
- Zest the Lemons: If you want a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding some lemon zest to your batter.
- Avoid Overmixing: Stir until just combined to keep the cake fluffy.
- Check Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer can ensure your cake bakes at the right temperature.
Nutrition Information
neiman marcus lemon cake recipe nutrition facts
How Do You Store This Neiman Marcus Lemon Cake?
To keep your cake fresh:
- Room Temperature: After frosting, it lasts for about 2-3 days, covered to prevent it from drying out.
- Refrigerator: If you have leftover cake, store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just cover it well to preserve the moisture.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cake before frosting for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Allow it to thaw in the fridge the night before you plan to serve.
Sides for Neiman Marcus Lemon Cake
Pairing sides with your lemon cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some suggestions:
1. Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a colorful, tart contrast to the cake. Their natural sweetness balances the flavors.
2. Herbal Tea: A cup of calming chamomile or invigorating mint herbal tea complements the cake beautifully. The warmth of the tea enhances the overall experience.
3. Light Whipped Cream: A dollop of light whipped cream can make each bite feel even more indulgent. It adds a fluffy texture without being overwhelmingly heavy.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
Sometimes you might find yourself short on a few ingredients. Here are some alternatives:
1. Butter: If you’re out of butter, coconut oil or applesauce can serve as a substitute. Coconut oil adds a light flavor, while applesauce keeps the cake moist.
2. Cream Cheese: Greek yogurt offers a healthier option and adds creaminess. Just keep in mind the flavor might differ slightly.
3. Cake Mix: Homemade flour mixture (using flour, baking powder, and sugar) can replace a boxed cake mix in a pinch, but you’ll need to adjust the ratios.
4. Powdered Sugar: You can make your own powdered sugar by blending granulated sugar and cornstarch in a blender until fine.
Neiman Marcus Lemon Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Cake pans
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1/2 to 1 cup of butter or 1/2 to 1 cup of margarine
- 4 large eggs
- 1 8-ounce package of cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 18-ounce box of cake mix (choose chocolate or lemon for flavor)
- 1 1-pound box of powdered sugar
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans. This step is crucial to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter and cream cheese until smooth. This process should take about 2-3 minutes. You want to create a fluffy texture that will add richness to the cake.
- Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. The eggs contribute to the cake’s height and texture, so be thorough here.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cake mix and sour cream. Gradually add this mixture to your wet batter using a spatula. Fold gently until just combined. This will prevent overmixing, which could lead to a tough cake.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, frost the top of one cake layer with your choice of frosting (traditional cream cheese frosting works wonders). Place the second layer on top and frost the sides and top of the cake generously.
Notes
- Sift Your Powdered Sugar: This removes lumps and results in a smoother frosting.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your butter, eggs, and cream cheese to come to room temperature. This creates a more uniform batter.
- Zest the Lemons: If you want a more intense lemon flavor, consider adding some lemon zest to your batter.
- Avoid Overmixing: Stir until just combined to keep the cake fluffy.
- Check Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer can ensure your cake bakes at the right temperature.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Baking the Neiman Marcus Lemon Cake is not merely becoming acquainted with a popular dessert; it’s about creating a piece of joy to share with friends and family. Each time I bake this cake, I’m reminded of its cheerful flavors and the happiness it brings to gatherings. Whether served at a family reunion or a quiet Sunday dinner, this recipe has won hearts beyond just my own.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process. Trust me, as you savor each slice, you’ll be thanking yourself for diving into this lemony adventure. Happy baking!
