We’ve always been fans of the indulgent Neiman Marcus Brownies a timeless favorite that originated from the elegant Neiman Marcus department store. These rich fudgy treats boast a perfect blend of chocolatey goodness and a hint of luxury making them irresistible for dessert lovers everywhere.
In our recipe we’ll walk you through simple steps to recreate this classic at home. It’s a foolproof way to impress family and friends while adding a touch of sophistication to your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
In our quest to recreate the indulgent Neiman Marcus Brownies with their signature rich fudgy texture and chocolatey depth, we start by assembling the key ingredients. Below, we list them in the order they are typically used—first for the brownie base, then for the creamy topping—to ensure a seamless baking process.
Brownie Base Ingredients
- Chocolate cake mix: 1 box (18.25 ounces, we recommend a high-quality mix for that deep chocolate flavor that forms the foundation)
- Large eggs: 2 (fresh and at room temperature, beaten lightly to bind the mixture)
- Vegetable oil: ½ cup (use a neutral oil for moisture and to achieve the brownies’ signature gooey consistency)
Creamy Topping Ingredients
- Cream cheese: 1 package (8 ounces, softened to room temperature for easy blending and a smooth, tangy contrast)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (fine-grained for sweetness that balances the chocolate without overwhelming)
- Large egg: 1 (additional, whisked to add structure and creaminess to the topping)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (pure variety for authentic flavor enhancement that elevates the overall taste)
| Serving Size | Chocolate Cake Mix (boxes) | Large Eggs (total) | Vegetable Oil (cups) | Cream Cheese (packages) | Granulated Sugar (cups) | Vanilla Extract (teaspoons) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 servings | 1 | 3 | 0.5 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| 24 servings | 2 | 6 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| 36 servings | 3 | 9 | 1.5 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients for these irresistible Neiman Marcus Brownies, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create a dessert with a rich, fudgy base and creamy topping that will delight your taste buds.
Prep
Before we begin baking, we prepare our workspace and ingredients to ensure a smooth process. First, preheat the oven to 350°F for even baking. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray or butter and line it with parchment paper for easy removal—leaving some overhang on the sides helps us lift the brownies out later. In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie base ingredients: one box of chocolate cake mix, 2 large eggs, and 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. We use a sturdy spoon or mixer to blend until the mixture forms a thick, glossy batter that promises a decadent chocolate experience.
Mix and Bake
With our base ready, we move on to creating the creamy topping and assembling the brownies for baking. In a separate bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth then add 1 large egg, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract—mixing until fully incorporated for a luscious, velvety texture. Pour the brownie base batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Dollop the cream cheese mixture on top and swirl it gently with a knife to create a marbled effect that enhances the visual appeal and flavor contrast. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly—avoid overbaking to maintain that signature fudgy interior. For serving sizes, refer to the table below based on our earlier ingredient quantities:
| Servings | Brownie Base Quantity (Cake Mix in oz) | Eggs for Base | Vegetable Oil (cups) | Cream Cheese (oz) | Sugar for Topping (cups) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 15.25 | 1 | 1/4 | 4 | 1/2 |
| 24 | 18.25 | 2 | 1/2 | 8 | 1 |
| 36 | 18.25 (double batch) | 4 | 1 | 16 | 2 |
Cool and Serve
Once baked, we let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for about 1 hour to set the creamy topping and develop those intense chocolate flavors. After cooling, use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies out and cut them into squares—aim for 12 to 36 pieces depending on your serving size for a neat presentation. Serve these Neiman Marcus Brownies at room temperature to savor their moist, chocolatey goodness or chill them in the fridge for a firmer texture that contrasts delightfully with the soft center.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this take on Neiman Marcus Brownies, and we’re confident you’ll find it a hit in your kitchen. It’s a simple way to create indulgent treats that bring people together.
Remember, baking these lets us add a touch of luxury to everyday moments, so grab your ingredients and enjoy the rich flavors. We’re excited to hear how yours turn out!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Neiman Marcus Brownies?
Neiman Marcus Brownies are a luxurious, fudgy dessert that originated from the Neiman Marcus department store. They’re known for their rich chocolate flavor and creamy topping, making them a favorite for special occasions. This classic treat combines a chocolate cake base with a cheesecake-like layer for a decadent twist.
What ingredients are needed for Neiman Marcus Brownies?
For the brownie base, you’ll need a high-quality chocolate cake mix, large eggs, and vegetable oil. The creamy topping requires cream cheese, granulated sugar, an egg, and vanilla extract. Ingredients are scaled for 12, 24, or 36 servings to suit your needs, ensuring easy preparation at home.
How do I make Neiman Marcus Brownies?
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch pan. Mix the brownie base ingredients into a thick batter, then beat the topping with cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla. Layer them in the pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. Cool, cut into squares, and serve at room temperature or chilled for the best texture.
How many servings does the recipe make?
The recipe offers flexibility for 12, 24, or 36 servings based on ingredient quantities. Adjust amounts accordingly for your gathering, making it simple to bake just the right amount without waste.
Can I store Neiman Marcus Brownies?
Yes, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week for a firmer texture. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months—thaw in the fridge before serving to maintain their fudgy goodness.
What makes Neiman Marcus Brownies special?
These brownies stand out due to their indulgent combination of a moist chocolate base and creamy cheesecake topping, offering a luxurious twist on traditional brownies. They’re easy to make at home, perfect for impressing guests, and deliver a rich, chocolatey experience that’s hard to resist.