Linda CainTo fully enjoy the luxurious Neiman Marcus Chocolate Champagne Cake, consider pairing it with a few delightful accompaniments that will enhance its rich, decadent flavor.
Fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing burst of tartness, providing a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
A dollop of creamy whipped cream, perhaps with a hint of vanilla or almond extract, can elevate the dessert’s indulgence. For those who adore chocolate, a warm chocolate ganache drizzle intensifies the cake’s cocoa richness.
Finally, since the cake is baked with champagne, serving it with a glass of sparkling wine adds a celebratory touch, making this already luxurious dessert even more special.
Let me take you on a sweet journey. Picture this: a rich, moist cake infused with champagne, featuring layers of chocolate decadence.
You can find this delightful creation, the Neiman Marcus Chocolate Champagne Cake, in luxury chocolate shops and high-end restaurants alike. But what if I told you that you can whip up this elegant dessert in your very own kitchen?
As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I am passionate about creating dishes that are not just easy to make, but also tantalizing to the taste buds. After many experiments in my cozy kitchen, I’ve perfected a version of the Neiman Marcus Chocolate Champagne Cake.
The combination of chocolate and champagne creates a truly unique flavor profile. Not to mention, every bite will make you feel like you’re indulging in a bit of luxury.
Let’s explore what makes this cake special.
What is Neiman Marcus Chocolate Champagne Cake?
The Neiman Marcus Chocolate Champagne Cake is a delightful confection that balances rich chocolate flavors with the lightness of champagne. Moistened with bubbly, this cake embodies celebration.
The original recipe is often thought to originate from the famous Neiman Marcus department store, known for its luxury food offerings.
Why This Recipe Works
Here are four compelling reasons why this recipe is a must-try:
- Flavor Balance: The mixture of chocolate and champagne creates a captivating taste experience. The sweetness of the chocolate cake harmonizes perfectly with the slight tang of champagne. This interplay keeps your palate excited with every bite.
- Moist Texture: One of the keys to a great cake is its texture. The inclusion of egg whites and chilled champagne gives this cake an incredible moistness. Each forkful is satisfying and airy at the same time.
- Visual Appeal: Let’s face it—this cake looks stunning! The deep chocolate color topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar or chocolate shavings makes for an impressive centerpiece at any gathering.
- Versatility: Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake can fit any event. You can serve it at a fancy dinner party or enjoy it at a casual brunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Neiman Marcus Chocolate Champagne Cake
Here are the essential ingredients for this cake:
- 7 large egg yolks
- 7 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (superfine recommended, regular works as well), divided
- 3/4 cup chilled champagne
- 5 tablespoons neutral vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups of finely sifted cake flour
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Each ingredient contributes to the overall success of the cake. Make sure to use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor!
How To Make This Neiman Marcus Chocolate Champagne Cake
Getting started on this decadent dessert is a breeze! Follow these steps for a delightful cake:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter or non-stick spray. Dust with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Create the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, beat the 7 egg yolks with 3/4 cup of sugar. Use an electric mixer until the mixture becomes pale and thick. This should take about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Add the champagne, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the egg yolk mixture. Mix until well combined. Gradually sift in the cake flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, espresso powder, and orange zest. Mix until just combined.
Step 4: Whip Egg Whites
In a separate bowl, whip the 7 egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar while continuing to whip. Beat until you achieve stiff peaks.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the chocolate mixture. Do this in three additions, being careful not to deflate the egg whites. The batter should be light and airy.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 7: Frosting (Optional)
If you want to frost the cake, consider using whipped cream or a light chocolate frosting. This is entirely optional since the cake is delicious on its own!
Tips
Here are five tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a fluffier cake.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting the dry ingredients helps to prevent lumps and ensures even distribution of baking powder and cocoa powder.
- Gently Fold Egg Whites: Be gentle while folding in the egg whites. The goal is to keep as much air in the batter as possible for a light texture.
- Check for Doneness: Don’t open the oven door too early while the cake is baking. Check for doneness only during the last few minutes to prevent it from sinking.
- Serve the Cake Cold: Let the cake chill in the fridge if you prefer a firmer slice, but it’s also delicious at room temperature.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers (which is often unlikely), store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers if you stack them to prevent sticking.
The cake can last in the fridge for up to five days. Alternatively, you can freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil for up to two months. Simply thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Recommended Side Dishes for Neiman Marcus Chocolate Champagne Cake
Looking to round out your dessert table? Consider these side dishes:
- Pistachio Ice Cream: The nutty flavor adds a unique contrast to the chocolate. The creaminess complements the cake beautifully.
- Coconut Macaroons: These chewy bites enhance the dessert experience. Their texture and sweetness create a delightful combination.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Enhance celebrations with chocolate-dipped strawberries. They’re simple to make and add visual charm.
- Raspberry Compote: A drizzle of homemade raspberry compote will provide tartness and brightness, perfectly balancing the cake’s richness.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you find yourself lacking an ingredient, don’t worry! Here are some substitutes:
- Champagne: If you don’t have champagne, sparkling cider or non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice works wonderfully for a non-alcoholic version.
- Eggs: For a vegan twist, substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/2 banana.
- Cocoa Powder: You can use Dutch-processed cocoa powder in place of unsweetened cocoa powder for a milder flavor.
- Cake Flour: If you don’t have cake flour, you can make a substitute by combining all-purpose flour and cornstarch. For every cup, use 1 cup of all-purpose flour minus 2 tablespoons, then add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch.
Neiman Marcus Chocolate Champagne Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 7 large egg yolks
- 7 large egg whites at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar superfine recommended, regular works as well, divided
- 3/4 cup chilled champagne
- 5 tablespoons neutral vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups of finely sifted cake flour
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter or non-stick spray. Dust with flour to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the 7 egg yolks with 3/4 cup of sugar. Use an electric mixer until the mixture becomes pale and thick. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Add the champagne, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the egg yolk mixture. Mix until well combined. Gradually sift in the cake flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, espresso powder, and orange zest. Mix until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the 7 egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 3/4 cup of sugar while continuing to whip. Beat until you achieve stiff peaks.
- Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the chocolate mixture. Do this in three additions, being careful not to deflate the egg whites. The batter should be light and airy.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- If you want to frost the cake, consider using whipped cream or a light chocolate frosting. This is entirely optional since the cake is delicious on its own!
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a fluffier cake.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting the dry ingredients helps to prevent lumps and ensures even distribution of baking powder and cocoa powder.
- Gently Fold Egg Whites: Be gentle while folding in the egg whites. The goal is to keep as much air in the batter as possible for a light texture.
- Check for Doneness: Don’t open the oven door too early while the cake is baking. Check for doneness only during the last few minutes to prevent it from sinking.
- Serve the Cake Cold: Let the cake chill in the fridge if you prefer a firmer slice, but it’s also delicious at room temperature.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Creating the Neiman Marcus Chocolate Champagne Cake is a rewarding experience, one that can turn an ordinary occasion into a celebration. This cake combines the richness of chocolate with the festive charm of champagne.
Whether you’re baking for a special event or a casual weekend treat, this cake is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s make cake magic happen right in your own kitchen.
Happy baking!
