Name: Neiman Marcus Cookie – Chewy Chocolate Bliss at Home
Prep time: 36 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 52 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Substitution: Use salted butter but reduce added salt.); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 3/4 cup Brown Sugar (Use light or dark based on preference.); 2 large Eggs (Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better integration.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Try using pure vanilla for best results.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Avoid cake flour or self-rising flour for this recipe.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 pinch Salt (Optional if using salted butter.); 2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (Can substitute with milk or dark chocolate.); 1 cup Chopped Nuts (Walnuts or Pecans) (Omit for nut-free options or substitute with extra chocolate chips.)

As I stood in my cozy kitchen, the aroma of melting chocolate wafting through the air took me back to moments filled with laughter and warmth. These Neiman Marcus Cookies are the perfect embodiment of that nostalgia, inviting everyone to gather around for a delicious treat. This classic cookie recipe strikes a harmonious balance between a chewy, gooey center and slightly crisp edges, making them a go-to for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Plus, with just a 36-minute prep time, it’s beginner-friendly, allowing you to whip up an impressive dessert from everyday pantry staples. Whether you stick with the classic semi-sweet chocolate or get adventurous with nuts and alternative chips, these cookies are a surefire way to bring smiles to the table. Ready to uncover the secret to the ultimate cookie that will have everyone asking for seconds?

Why are Neiman Marcus Cookies a Must-Bake?

Irresistible Flavor: The rich chocolate chunks combined with buttery goodness create a treat that’s hard to resist.

Easy to Make: This simple recipe is perfect for beginners and requires ingredients you likely already have at home.

Customizable Options: Whether you prefer classic chocolate chips or want to jazz things up with walnuts, the possibilities are endless.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These cookies are perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or just a cozy night in—you’ll have everyone coming back for more!

Pair these delicious cookies with a glass of cold milk or, for an indulgent dessert, serve them warm alongside ice cream. To explore more variations, don’t miss out on our favorites like Ferrero Rocher Cookies or Cookies Cream Peanut.

Neiman Marcus Cookie Ingredients

For the Batter
• Unsalted Butter – Provides a rich, creamy base and contributes to a tender texture. Substitution: Use salted butter but reduce added salt.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps the cookies spread for crisp edges.
• Brown Sugar – Offers moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, enhancing chewiness. Use light or dark based on preference.
• Large Eggs – Act as a binding agent, giving structure and moisture. Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better integration.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor with its aromatic profile. Try using pure vanilla for best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of the dough, ensuring the cookies hold shape while providing the right texture. Avoid cake flour or self-rising flour for this recipe.
• Baking Soda – A leavening agent that contributes to cookie rise.
• Baking Powder – Works with baking soda for added lift to create crispy edges.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors. Optional if using salted butter.

For the Chocolatey Goodness
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – The core feature of the recipe, providing melty chocolatey goodness. Can substitute with milk or dark chocolate.
• Chopped Nuts (Walnuts or Pecans, optional) – Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Omit for nut-free options or substitute with extra chocolate chips.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Neiman Marcus Cookie

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Neiman Marcus cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color. While the oven warms up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper for easy release and cleanup.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup brown sugar for 3-4 minutes. You’re aiming for a light, fluffy texture that appears almost pale in color. This is the foundation of your Neiman Marcus cookie’s rich flavor.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Once your butter mixture is fluffy, add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well incorporated. This step infuses the batter with a warm aroma, promising delightful cookies on the horizon.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This dry mixture will help achieve the right balance of texture and structure in your Neiman Marcus cookies, so make sure to whisk it thoroughly to evenly distribute the baking soda and powder.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture
Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, combining gently with a spatula. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to retain that tender texture we love in cookies. You want the dough to come together without any streaks of flour visible.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Nuts
Gently fold in 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips and, if desired, 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. Make sure the chocolate and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the dough, offering a pleasant surprise of rich chocolate and nutty textures in every bite of your Neiman Marcus cookie.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows the Neiman Marcus cookies to spread properly during baking, preventing them from merging together.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes. Look for the edges to turn golden brown while the center remains slightly soft. This contrast ensures a beautifully chewy texture while still achieving a delightful crunch on the outside.

Step 9: Cool Before Transferring
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This resting period lets the centers firm up a bit while retaining their gooeyness, making it easier to transfer them to a wire rack for further cooling.

Step 10: Transfer and Enjoy
Finally, carefully transfer the Neiman Marcus cookies to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, they’re ready to be enjoyed with a glass of milk or as a special treat any time of day.

Storage Tips for Neiman Marcus Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their chewy goodness and avoid them becoming stale.

Freezer: Place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper, for up to 3 months. They can be enjoyed later, simply thaw and savor!

Baked Dough: If you prefer, you can freeze the unbaked dough. Shape it into balls and freeze; bake directly from the freezer for fresh cookies anytime!

Reheating: When you’re ready to indulge, simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore their gooey center.

What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Cookies?

Imagine the cozy gathering where sweet treats steal the show, complementing your cherished cookie experience.

Cold Milk: A classic pairing that complements the rich chocolate and buttery flavors of the cookies, creating a delightful indulgence.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies over a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for an ultra-indulgent dessert that elevates any occasion.
Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of coffee perfectly balance the sweetness of the cookies, making it a sophisticated choice for after-dinner treats.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies, adding a burst of color and vitality to your dessert spread.
Hot Chocolate: The familiar warmth and sweetness of a steaming cup of hot cocoa harmonize beautifully with the melting chocolate chips in your Neiman Marcus cookies.
Chocolate Ganache Dip: For chocolate lovers, a luscious ganache dip creates an extra layer of indulgence, intensifying the chocolatey goodness of your cookies.
Cheesecake Bites: Bite-sized cheesecake brings a creamy richness that contrasts delightfully with the chewy texture of the cookies, adding decadence to your dessert table.
Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix with nuts will offer a delightful textural contrast while keeping the snacks healthful, balancing indulgence with energy.

Neiman Marcus Cookie Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Neiman Marcus cookies; customizing them is part of the fun!

Nut-Free: Omit the nuts completely or substitute them with additional chocolate chips to keep the indulgence high.
For nut lovers, you might consider using the extra chocolate to create a deliciously sweet and creamy texture.
Dried Fruit Twist: Substitute nuts with dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity chew.
The tartness adds a surprising flavor that complements the rich chocolate and brown sugar beautifully.
White Chocolate Delight: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate or add them for a dual-color effect.
This change creates a sweeter, creamier look that pairs wonderfully with the buttery cookie base.
Butterscotch Bliss: Blend in butterscotch chips with the chocolate for a deeper caramel flavor.
Adding butterscotch can elevate your cookies into a new dimension of sweetness, so don’t skip this delightful twist!
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a dash of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy edge.
The unexpected heat mingles with the sweet chocolate, creating an intriguing flavor profile everyone will talk about.
Vegan Option: Substitute butter with coconut oil and eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a wholly plant-based treat.
These cookies can still be rich and satisfying while accommodating dietary preferences, making them inclusive for all.
Extra Crunch: Add a handful of crushed pretzels to the dough for a sweet-savory combination.
The added texture brings a delightful crunch that balances the soft and chewy nature of the cookie.
Elevated Sea Salt: Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking for a touch of class.
This small addition can help balance the sweetness while enhancing the overall flavor experience, giving you gourmet-style cookies at home.

Explore these variations to create your unique twist on the classic Neiman Marcus Cookie. And don’t forget to check out our favorite Malted Peanut Cookies or the indulgent Bake Cranberry Cookies for more delicious ideas!

Make Ahead Options

These Neiman Marcus Cookies are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until Step 6, then tightly wrap the dough in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep the dough fresh and enhance the flavors. When ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, then scoop and bake as directed. For an even longer option, shape the cookies into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to enjoy these delicious treats!

Tips for the Best Neiman Marcus Cookies

Butter Temperature: Use softened butter, not melted, to achieve that perfect creamy texture for your Neiman Marcus cookies.
Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing the dough after adding the dry ingredients. This maintains the cookies’ tender, chewy consistency.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should look slightly puffy in the center and golden at the edges to avoid overbaking.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment for easy removal and to prevent sticking, ensuring a beautiful cookie presentation.
Chill Dough for Chewier Cookies: For an extra chewy texture, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking, allowing the flavors to meld.

Neiman Marcus Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for the Neiman Marcus cookies?
I recommend using unsalted butter for these cookies to fully control the salt content. Make sure it’s softened but not melted—this is key to achieving that creamy texture. If you only have salted butter, just reduce the additional salt in the recipe by a pinch or two.

How should I store my Neiman Marcus cookies?
To maintain their delightful chewiness, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to extend their shelf life, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between layers for up to 3 months. They’re still perfect for satisfying those late-night cravings!

Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Absolutely! Freezing the unbaked dough is a fantastic option. Shape the cookie dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for fresh cookies anytime you want!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much during baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, it may be due to using melted butter instead of softened butter, or overmixing the dough. To resolve this issue, try chilling your dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This quick trick helps the cookies maintain their shape and results in a nice, chewy texture.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe for dietary needs?
Definitely! If you have nut allergies, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with more chocolate chips. For a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based butter substitute and dairy-free chocolate chips. And if you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, consider using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

How long do the Neiman Marcus cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies will stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. For longer storage, freezing is ideal—just remember that they can last up to 3 months in the freezer, so you can enjoy them well beyond their bake date!