Name: Irresistible Neiman Marcus Cookies You'll Crave Again and Again
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour (sift if you want lighter cookies); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (helps the cookies rise beautifully); 1 teaspoon Salt (enhances flavors and balances sweetness); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened for smooth creaming); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (adds sweetness and crisp finish); 3/4 cup Brown Sugar (packed for moisture; dark brown adds richness); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (brings depth of flavor); 2 large Eggs (acts as a binder for ingredients); 2 cups Semisweet Chocolate Chips (feel free to swap in milk or dark chocolate); 1 cup Chopped Walnuts (optional adds extra crunch)

The sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen can turn an ordinary day into a delightful one. These Neiman Marcus Cookies are not just any cookies; they’re a warm hug in a treat form. With quick prep time and the option to stash some dough in the freezer for future cravings, they’re perfect for busy home chefs wanting homemade comfort. Imagine biting into a tender cookie, rich with chocolate and the crunch of walnuts—definitely a crowd-pleaser! Now, are you ready to create cookie magic that will have friends and family asking for your secret? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Neiman Marcus Cookies so special?

Unmatched Flavor: These cookies boast a delightful blend of semisweet chocolate and optional crunchy walnuts, creating a taste that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and a simple baking process, you can whip up a batch without any hassle, making them perfect for spontaneous gatherings.

Versatile for All Occasions: Whether it’s a casual family night or a fancy event, these cookies fit right in! Consider pairing them with a cup of coffee for a cozy treat or serving them warm as dessert.

Freeze for Later: Not only are these cookies delicious, but the dough can be frozen for future cravings—making them a go-to option when unexpected guests arrive! If you’d like to explore more about maximizing your baking efforts, check out our tips for storing baked goods.

Everyone's Favorite: Trust me on this one: a plate of fresh Neiman Marcus Cookies will disappear faster than you can say “cookie!” Prepare to enjoy compliments from friends and family that will have you baking again and again!

Neiman Marcus Cookies Ingredients

You can't make these legendary cookies without the right ingredients!

For the Cookie Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – 2 ¼ cups for the perfect chewy texture; sift if you want lighter cookies.
• Baking Soda – 1 teaspoon helps the cookies rise beautifully, ensuring a nice, tender bite.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon to enhance all the flavors and balance the sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter – 1 cup, softened for smooth creaming, making your dough rich and delicious.
• Granulated Sugar – ¾ cup adds sweetness and a lovely crisp finish to each cookie.
• Brown Sugar – ¾ cup packed for moisture and that delightful chewy texture; use dark brown sugar for extra richness.
• Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon brings depth of flavor that elevates every bite.
• Eggs – 2 large, acting as a binder for the ingredients and adding to the cookie's richness.
• Semisweet Chocolate Chips – 2 cups are the star of the show; feel free to swap in milk or dark chocolate if preferred.
• Chopped Walnuts (optional) – 1 cup adds an extra crunch, but you can skip it for a nut-free version of these Neiman Marcus Cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Neiman Marcus Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure that your Neiman Marcus Cookies bake evenly. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and prepare your baking sheets; having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt until blended. This dry mixture lays the foundation for the cookie dough, helping it rise perfectly. Once combined, set the bowl aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of packed brown sugar. Use a hand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth, fluffy, and light in color. This step is key to achieving that tender texture in your Neiman Marcus Cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 2 large eggs, beating one at a time until fully incorporated. This process should take about 1-2 minutes. The eggs will create a rich binding component and the vanilla will enhance the overall flavor profile of your cookies.

Step 5: Blend in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamy mixture, stirring gently until just combined. This ensures that you don’t overmix the dough, keeping your Neiman Marcus Cookies tender. You’ll know it’s ready when no dry flour remains visible, but avoid any excessive stirring.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips and Walnuts
Fold in 2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of chopped walnuts (if desired) using a spatula. Mix just until the chocolate and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating delightful pockets of flavor in every bite.

Step 7: Portion the Cookie Dough
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. This spacing is important for even baking, allowing the Neiman Marcus Cookies to expand without running into each other.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly browned around the edges. Keep an eye on them, as the perfect cookie will be slightly soft in the center but firm at the edges, signaling deliciousness to come.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool for a few minutes. Transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling step enhances the texture, allowing your Neiman Marcus Cookies to firm up and be ready for that first decadent bite.

What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Cookies

Imagine a cozy gathering, the sweet scent of chocolate wafting through the air, and you're left wondering what delectable treats will complement these delightful cookies.

Chilled Milk: A classic pairing that balances the rich sweetness of the cookies. It's a nostalgic, simple pleasure to sip while enjoying a warm cookie!
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy cold texture contrasts beautifully with warm cookies, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience. Serve a scoop alongside for extra indulgence.
Coffee: A bold, aromatic cup of coffee serves as the perfect companion, enhancing the chocolate notes in your cookies. The warmth will elevate your dessert experience.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or sweet strawberries provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies, balancing the flavors beautifully on your palate.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel atop your cookies creates a gooey, decadent treat. Pair it with apples for a fun twist!
Hot Cocoa: For chilly evenings, a steaming cup of hot cocoa adds a sweet warmth, echoing the flavors of the cookies. Top with whipped cream for even more comfort!
Cheesecake Brownies: Combine soft textures by serving these alongside your cookies. The decadence of chocolate and creaminess will captivate dessert lovers!

Enjoy experimenting with these pairings and delight in creating unforgettable moments around the sweet magic of Neiman Marcus Cookies!

How to Store and Freeze Neiman Marcus Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your neiman marcus cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and chewy texture.

Fridge: If you want them to last a little longer, store cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Dough Freezing: Wrap unused cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Neiman Marcus Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients and refrigerating it. To maintain the delightful texture, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can portion out the dough on baking sheets, freeze them for about 1-2 hours, then transfer the frozen balls into a resealable bag for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and adjust the baking time by adding an extra minute or two. This way, you’ll have warm, gooey Neiman Marcus Cookies that are just as delicious with minimal effort!

Tips for the Best Neiman Marcus Cookies

Creaming Technique: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature; this helps create an airy texture by trapping air, leading to fluffier cookies.

Avoid Overmixing: Once you add the flour mixture, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the tender Neiman Marcus Cookies you desire.

Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies that hold their shape, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.

Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is correctly set to 350°F (175°C); an incorrect temperature can affect baking times and cookie texture.

Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be just golden at the edges for the perfect soft center. Letting them cool on the sheet for a few minutes helps them firm up beautifully.

Neiman Marcus Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make these cookies your own; customizing their flavors will unleash your inner baking artist!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously chewy option.
Nut-Free: Skip the walnuts and add an extra cup of chocolate chips for a chocolate lover’s delight! More chocolate never hurts, right?
Dairy-Free: Use coconut or dairy-free butter alternatives to suit your dietary needs while still enjoying rich flavors.
Different Sweeteners: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a caramel-like flavor that offers a unique twist.
Flavor Infusions: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough to enhance chocolate flavors and give your cookies a delightful depth.
Healthier Chocolate: Swap semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips to boost antioxidants while still keeping the irresistible sweetness.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some cinnamon into the dry ingredients for a warm spice finish.
Oatmeal Variation: Fold in 1 cup of rolled oats for an oatmeal cookie twist that adds heartiness and texture to your Neiman Marcus Cookies!

These tweaks can take your cookie game to new heights! Interested in more ways to elevate your baking? Be sure to check out our articles on making delicious cookies and perfecting your baking skills. Happy baking!

Neiman Marcus Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients, especially the butter?
Absolutely! For the best Neiman Marcus Cookies, choose butter that is just softened, ideally at room temperature (about 68°F or 20°C). This makes it easy to cream with sugars, creating a light, fluffy texture in your dough. If you forget to take it out ahead of time, you can cut it into small cubes or microwave it in short bursts (about 10 seconds) to soften it slightly, but avoid melting it.

How should I store my baked Neiman Marcus Cookies?
I recommend keeping your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This way, they maintain their delightful chewiness. For longer freshness, you can store them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just be sure to allow them to reach room temperature before diving in!

Can I freeze Neiman Marcus Cookies, and how?
Of course! Freezing these cookies is simple. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they're firm, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer freezing the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then store it in a freezer bag. You can thaw the dough in the fridge overnight before baking for fresh cookies whenever you crave!

What if my cookies turn out too flat?
This can happen sometimes, but not to worry! To ensure your Neiman Marcus Cookies retain their shape, consider chilling your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This slows down the melting of the butter and helps the cookies keep their form. Also, be sure your baking soda is fresh; old baking soda might affect the structure of your cookies.

Is there a way to make this recipe allergy-friendly?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, if you’d like a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts. Keep an eye on any chocolate chips you choose as they can sometimes contain traces of allergens; opt for allergy-friendly brands when necessary.

Can I add more mix-ins to the Neiman Marcus Cookies?
Very much! Feel free to customize your Neiman Marcus Cookies with additional mix-ins such as dried fruits, white chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. The more, the merrier! Just be mindful of the total amount of ingredients; you don’t want to overwhelm the cookie dough.