Rich, gooey, and irresistibly indulgent, Air Fryer Neiman Marcus Cake is a decadent dessert with a buttery crust and a luscious, creamy topping. Often called a “gooey butter cake,” this layered treat has a soft cake base and a sweet, slightly tangy cream cheese layer that melts in your mouth. Making it in the air fryer gives you that perfect texture — lightly golden on top, gooey in the center, and beautifully set around the edges.
This is the kind of dessert that feels nostalgic and luxurious at the same time. It’s simple to make with pantry-friendly ingredients, yet it tastes like something from a bakery display case.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of Neiman Marcus Cake lies in its layers. A cake mix crust forms the buttery base, while a cream cheese topping creates a soft, custard-like layer as it bakes. The air fryer’s consistent circulating heat ensures even baking without drying out the cake, which keeps the center perfectly gooey.
This method is also faster than using a full-size oven and ideal for smaller batches.
Ingredients
For the crust layer
- 1 cup yellow cake mix
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the gooey topping
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Optional toppings
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Chocolate chips or chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Line a small 6-inch cake pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, and egg until a thick dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add egg, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Mix until creamy and lump-free.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
- Carefully place the pan in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 20–25 minutes, until the top is set but the center is still slightly gooey.
- Turn off the air fryer and let the cake sit inside for 5 minutes with the door slightly open.
- Remove and cool completely before slicing — the center will firm up as it cools.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips for Perfect Texture
Do not overbake — the center should still jiggle slightly when you remove it. It will set as it cools, giving that signature gooey texture. Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the topping.
If your air fryer runs hot, check at the 18-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
Flavor Variations
- Add chocolate chips to the cream cheese layer for extra richness.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for crunch.
- Swap yellow cake mix for chocolate cake mix for a deeper flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled for the best texture. Pair with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert. Fresh berries also balance the sweetness nicely.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cake becomes even more flavorful the next day. Let slices come to room temperature before serving for the softest texture.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Neiman Marcus Cake is the perfect combination of buttery, creamy, and sweet with that signature gooey center everyone loves. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and feels like a bakery-quality dessert without the hassle. The air fryer makes it approachable and reliable, delivering a rich, comforting treat that’s perfect for holidays, gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent.
