The aroma wafting through my kitchen is pure magic, transporting me back to lazy afternoons spent baking with family. Today, I'm thrilled to share my go-to recipe for Neiman Marcus Cookies, a delightful treat that’s sure to impress both friends and family. With quick prep and a perfect balance of chewy oats and rich chocolate, these cookies transform mundane moments into sweet celebrations. Plus, they’re wonderfully versatile—feel free to add your favorite nuts or mix-ins for a fun twist! Ready to concoct some cookie bliss? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe and elevate your baking game!
Why Are Neiman Marcus Cookies So Special?
Decadent flavors come together in a cookie that’s both chewy and crispy, making each bite unforgettable. Rapid prep time of just 15 minutes means you can whip these up anytime! Perfect for sharing, these cookies are a surefire crowd-pleaser at parties or cozy evenings. Versatile enough to personalize with your favorite mix-ins like toffee bits or peanut butter chips, they cater to every palate. And don’t forget to check out our make-ahead tips to keep the cookie magic alive for future cravings!
Neiman Marcus Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted butter – ensures a rich, creamy base for your cookies.
• Brown sugar – adds a depth of flavor and moisture, making the cookies chewy.
• Granulated sugar – balances the sweetness and contributes to that golden crisp.
• Large eggs – bind the ingredients together while adding richness.
• Vanilla extract – enhances flavor and gives a comforting, aromatic touch.
• All-purpose flour – the foundation for your cookie dough, creating structure.
• Rolled oats – lends a hearty texture and an irresistible chewy bite.
• Baking powder – helps the cookies rise and maintain a soft interior.
• Baking soda – aids in achieving that perfect chewy edge.
• Chocolate chips – provide gooey pockets of rich chocolate that melt in your mouth.
• Chopped nuts (optional) – add crunch and a wonderful nutty flavor, perfect for customization.
Ready to take your cookie-making skills to the next level? Gather these Neiman Marcus Cookies ingredients and get set for a baking adventure that your taste buds won’t forget!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Neiman Marcus Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that your Neiman Marcus Cookies will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color on the edges. While the oven heats up, gather your mixing bowls and measuring cups to prepare for the cookie dough.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1 cup of brown sugar and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the mixture on medium speed until it becomes smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. You'll want the texture to be light and fluffy, signaling that it's ready for the next ingredients.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, beat in 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into your creamy butter and sugar mixture. Continue mixing on low speed until everything is well combined, around 1-2 minutes. The batter should appear glossy and homogenous, a clear sign that the rich flavors are melding beautifully together.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. This blend will provide your Neiman Marcus Cookies with the perfect structure and chew. Make sure there are no lumps, as a well-mixed dry ingredient bowl will ensure a consistent cookie dough.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture
Gradually add the combined dry ingredients into your creamed butter mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; you want to see a few flour streaks remaining. This step is crucial to keep your cookies tender and ensure the delightful chewyness from the oats shines through.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts
Now it’s time to fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of chopped nuts, if you’re using them. Use a spatula to gently incorporate the mix-ins without breaking the dough too much. The chocolate chips should be evenly distributed, ensuring that each bite of your Neiman Marcus Cookies is packed with sweet, melty goodness.
Step 7: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Using a tablespoon, drop rounded portions of your cookie dough onto the prepared sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This is important as the cookies will spread while baking, and you want them to have room to breathe and maintain their shape.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake your Neiman Marcus Cookies for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re ready when the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft. This contrast is key to achieving that perfect chewy texture that everyone loves.
Step 9: Cool Before Transferring
Once baked, allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This resting period will help set the cookies and make them easier to transfer. Afterward, carefully move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing air to circulate and keeping them from becoming soggy.
Make Ahead Options
These Neiman Marcus Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you’d like, you can also scoop the dough onto baking sheets and freeze the unbaked cookies for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you'll have delicious, freshly baked cookies on hand with minimal effort, keeping cookie cravings at bay!
How to Store and Freeze Neiman Marcus Cookies
Fridge: Store baked Neiman Marcus Cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and chewy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookie dough in individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months!
Reheating: To enjoy a warm cookie, reheat from frozen by baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes or until heated through.
Thawing: If using frozen cookie dough, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking for the best results.
What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Cookies
Creating the perfect dessert experience is all about complementing each bite with delightful pairings.
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Creamy Milk: A classic choice, milk’s creamy goodness balances the sweetness, making each cookie even more indulgent.
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Rich Coffee: The bold flavors of coffee contrast beautifully with the cookie's sweetness, enhancing its rich chocolate notes.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful melting treat that’s heavenly.
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Fresh Berries: Light, tart berries provide a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the cookie and adding a touch of brightness.
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Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: These salty-sweet snacks create a fantastic texture pairing and enhance the chocolate chip goodness.
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Hazelnut Spread: A thin smear of hazelnut spread elevates each bite, offering a delightful layer of creaminess and nutty flavor.
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Sweet Mint Tea: Refreshing mint tea beautifully complements the rich flavors, providing a soothing finish to a decadent moment.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over your cookies for a luxurious touch that takes this treat to the next level of sweetness.
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Sparkling Water: A bubbly glass of sparkling water cleanses the palate and prepares you for another cookie bliss moment.
Expert Tips for Neiman Marcus Cookies
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother dough. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven texture!
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Don't Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the perfect chewy Neiman Marcus Cookies we love.
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Spacing is Key: Drop dough on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart. This allows space for spreading while baking to maintain those beautiful shapes.
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Watch the Clock: Keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. If overbaked, they'll lose their lovely softness! Aim for lightly golden edges for that sweet, chewy interior.
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Cooling Time Matters: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This ensures they don't break apart and helps them set perfectly.
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Customize Your Mix-ins: Feel free to experiment with different add-ins like toffee bits or dried fruit to make your Neiman Marcus Cookies truly unique and tailored to your tastes!
Neiman Marcus Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these cookies to your taste—let's transform each bite into a unique delight!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious cookie that everyone can enjoy.
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Nut-Free: Omit chopped nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a crunchy, allergen-friendly treat.
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Dairy-Free: Swap butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it creamy and delicious.
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Chewy Extra Oats: Increase rolled oats to 1.5 cups for a heartier texture that adds an extra chewy bite—perfect for oat lovers!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough for a warm twist that’ll surprise your taste buds in every bite.
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White Chocolate Delight: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier cookie experience!
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Festive Flavor: Mix in seasonal spices like pumpkin pie spice or zest of an orange for holidays to bring extra warmth and cheer to your cookie platter.
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Cookie Sandwiches: Bake two cookies and sandwich a layer of your favorite frosting or ice cream in between for an indulgent treat that’s perfect for celebrations.
With these delightful variations, the possibilities are endless, making each baking session uniquely yours! Don’t forget to explore our storage tips to keep those cookie creations fresh for longer.
Neiman Marcus Cookies Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to choose ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best Neiman Marcus Cookies, your butter should be softened but not melted; it should leave an indention when pressed. Eggs should be fresh with no cracks, and the oats should be whole and not stale. Always check the “best by” dates on your flour and sugars for peak freshness.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Very simple! Place your baked Neiman Marcus Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can also layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For longer freshness, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap before storing will help maintain their delightful texture.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! To freeze your Neiman Marcus cookie dough, first scoop it into tablespoon-sized portions. Next, arrange the dough balls on a baking sheet, freeze them for about an hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies anytime for up to 3 months! When you're ready, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What should I do if my cookies come out flat?
If your Neiman Marcus Cookies spread too much, it could be due to warm butter or too much flour. To troubleshoot, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, and measure your flour accurately—using the scoop-and-level method works best. Also, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can help keep your cookies from spreading too thin.
Are Neiman Marcus Cookies suitable for those with nut allergies?
Definitely! You can simply omit the chopped nuts if you're concerned about allergies. The cookies will still be deliciously chewy and chocolatey. Just be sure to check that other ingredients like chocolate chips are nut-free as well. Always consider using allergy-friendly substitutes if you're unsure!
Can I customize the mix-ins in these cookies?
Very much so! I often make variations with my favorite mix-ins like toffee bits, peanut butter chips, or even dried fruits like cranberries. Just keep the total mix-ins around 2 cups to maintain the right texture. Feel free to experiment and find a combination that you love!
Decadent Neiman Marcus Cookies That Will Wow Your Friends
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- hand mixer
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- spatula
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter ensures a rich, creamy base for your cookies
- 1 cup brown sugar adds depth of flavor and moisture
- 1 cup granulated sugar balances sweetness
- 2 large eggs binds ingredients together
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances flavor
- 2 cups all-purpose flour creates structure
- 1 cup rolled oats lends a hearty texture
- 1 teaspoon baking powder helps the cookies rise
- 1 teaspoon baking soda aids in achieving chewy edges
- 1 cup chocolate chips provides gooey pockets of chocolate
- 1 cup chopped nuts optional, for added crunch
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips and nuts, if using.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drop rounded portions of dough onto it, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
