Linda CainBefore we dive deep into the rich, delectable layers of Neiman Marcus Bars, let’s talk pairings. These bars shine when enjoyed with a steaming cup of coffee. Picture yourself on a lazy afternoon, the scent of brewed coffee warming the kitchen. Perhaps you prefer a milky latte or a hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. Pairing your Neiman Marcus Bars with something delightful to wash it down enhances the experience.
You might also consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of the warm, buttery texture of the bars against the cool, creamy ice cream creates a delightful balance. You could even throw in some fresh berries for a pop of color and a tangy taste.
Got a gathering coming up? These treats are perfect for parties. Set them out on a platter for everyone to enjoy. The visual appeal adds to the festive atmosphere, and trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “delicious!”
Neiman Marcus Bars. The name alone invokes curiosity. Where did these bars originate? What makes them so special? As I sank my teeth into one of these heavenly creations for the first time at a friend’s house, I was instantly transported to a sweet paradise. The tantalizing blend of butter, cream cheese, and almond left my taste buds dancing with delight. If you’re looking to impress guests or indulge in something sweet, you’ve landed in the right place.
These bars are not just a treat; they hold a spot in the hearts of many. They’re said to have a history tied to the luxurious Neiman Marcus department store chain. The legend goes that a woman asked for a chocolate chip cookie recipe, and what she received in return was a luxurious and incredibly rich dessert. The brand has since become synonymous with indulgence.
So, without further ado, let’s delve into the world of Neiman Marcus Bars. I’ll guide you through the recipe, ingredients, and tips to make these mouthwatering treats come to life.
What is Neiman Marcus Bars?
Neiman Marcus Bars primarily consist of creamy layers of cream cheese and butter, interlaced with sweet confectioners’ sugar for a rich sweetness. They are simple yet elegant, combining the ease of a cookie bar with the finesse and flavor of a rich dessert. The classic recipe typically uses golden cake mix as a base, making preparation a breeze.
They’re versatile and can be adjusted based on your preferences. Many enjoy adding chocolate chips or sprinkles for extra flair. Some even incorporate different flavor extracts beyond vanilla and almond, such as lemon or coconut, to play with different flavor profiles. The result? A treat that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Neiman Marcus Bars?
Let me tell you why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen. First, the flavor profile is divine—a creamy, buttery taste with a hint of sweetness. It’s a comforting experience.
Second, the texture is simply irresistible. You’ll bite into a smooth, creamy layer topped with a tender golden crust. The blend creates a unique softness that melts in your mouth.
Third, this recipe comes together so easily! With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have something that looks homemade but feels fancy. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply want to brighten your Tuesday.
Moreover, these bars are a hit with both kids and adults. I’ve seen friends and family beg for seconds. You serve them up, and suddenly everyone is reminiscing about their favorite desserts. It brings back sweet memories, sparking conversations and joy.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Neiman Marcus Bars
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these bars a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) of unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1 pound (approximately 4 cups) of confectioners’ sugar
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) of golden cake mix
- 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking. Don’t skip this step—hot ovens produce the best yields!
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the bars once they’re baked, and I promise you’ll want to savor every last crumb!
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the golden cake mix with the lemon zest and half of the eggs (the yolks). Beat the mixture until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Add the Butter
Now, add your softened butter to the dry mix. Mix until a dough forms. It should be soft yet somewhat sticky.
Step 5: Press the Dough
Take about two-thirds of your dough mixture and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Ensure it’s evenly spread.
Step 6: Create the Cream Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining egg whites, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the pressed dough in the baking dish. Even it out with a spatula for an even layer.
Step 8: Crumble the Remaining Dough
Crumble the remaining dough on top of the cream cheese layer. It doesn’t need to cover the cream cheese completely; this will create a beautiful top texture during baking.
Step 9: Bake
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it nears the end. You want a light golden color, and the center should still be slightly wobbly.
Step 10: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting it into squares. This cooling time is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
Notes
To ensure your baking experience is seamless, here are five tips:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened properly. This helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
- Beat Separately: When working with egg whites, ensure they’re in a clean bowl. Any fat residue can prevent them from whipping properly.
- Don’t Overmix: When mixing dry and wet ingredients, be cautious. Overmixing can lead to dense bars.
- Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary. Use an oven thermometer so you know it’s set correctly.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add things like chocolate chips, toffee bits, or different extracts to customize these bars.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Neiman Marcus Bars in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about 4–5 days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for up to three months! Just cut them into squares, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer bag.
Nutrition Information
Serving Suggestions
- With a Coffee Buddy: Pair these bars with a friend over coffee. It’s an instant relational boost.
- Ice Cream Topping: Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast is unplanned bliss!
- Garnish with Berries: Fresh raspberries or strawberries add a splash of color and a hint of tartness.
- Drizzle with Chocolate: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it on top for an added flair. It’s a visual feast!
- Plate with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side to elevate the experience.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Neiman Marcus Bars Recipe?
- Gluten-Free Cake Mix: If you need a gluten-free option, swap the golden cake mix for a gluten-free version. Just be sure it has a similar texture.
- Greek Yogurt: If you want a healthier alternative to cream cheese, flavored or plain Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. It changes the taste slightly.
- Non-Dairy Butter: For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter for those with dietary restrictions.
- Coconut Flour: Substitute a portion of the cake mix with coconut flour for an interesting flavor. Coconut pairs nicely with the almond extract.
- Flaxseed Meal: Replace eggs with ground flaxseed mixed with water for a vegan option. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water, let them sit for a few minutes, and use it in place of one egg.
Neiman Marcus Bars Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1 stick 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 4 large eggs separated
- 1 pound approximately 4 cups of confectioners’ sugar
- 1 box 15.25 ounces of golden cake mix
- 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
- 8 ounces of cream cheese softened
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking. Don’t skip this step—hot ovens produce the best yields!
- Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the bars once they’re baked, and I promise you’ll want to savor every last crumb!
- In a large bowl, combine the golden cake mix with the lemon zest and half of the eggs (the yolks). Beat the mixture until everything is well combined.
- Now, add your softened butter to the dry mix. Mix until a dough forms. It should be soft yet somewhat sticky.
- Take about two-thirds of your dough mixture and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Ensure it’s evenly spread.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining egg whites, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the pressed dough in the baking dish. Even it out with a spatula for an even layer.
- Crumble the remaining dough on top of the cream cheese layer. It doesn’t need to cover the cream cheese completely; this will create a beautiful top texture during baking.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it nears the end. You want a light golden color, and the center should still be slightly wobbly.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting it into squares. This cooling time is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened properly. This helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
- Beat Separately: When working with egg whites, ensure they’re in a clean bowl. Any fat residue can prevent them from whipping properly.
- Don’t Overmix: When mixing dry and wet ingredients, be cautious. Overmixing can lead to dense bars.
- Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary. Use an oven thermometer so you know it’s set correctly.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add things like chocolate chips, toffee bits, or different extracts to customize these bars.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
Neiman Marcus Bars are a timeless treat, capturing the hearts and taste buds of many. Whether you’re baking them for a party or as a comforting treat for yourself, these bars never disappoint. Their rich, creamy texture combined with their sweet, buttery flavor makes them a favorite for any occasion.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and let the magic happen in your kitchen. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a regular in your dessert rotation. Enjoy baking and indulging in the rich, sweet bliss of Neiman Marcus Bars!
