Barbara'S Neiman-Marcus Brownies
Decadent brownie bars with a buttery pecan crust and a creamy coconut topping, perfect for dessert lovers seeking rich, sweet flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cake mix, margarine, and 1 egg until well combined.
- Press the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- In a separate bowl, cream together powdered sugar, cream cheese, margarine, and 2 eggs until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla flavoring and coconut.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust in the pan.
- Sprinkle with pecans on top.
- Bake at 300°F for 50 to 55 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of these brownies, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture before pouring it over the crust. If you don't have margarine, you can substitute with an equal amount of butter. For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese. Make sure to grease the pan well to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these decadent brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving or add fresh berries on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbara'S Neiman-Marcus Brownies contains roughly 644 calories, with 4g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, you can experiment with other flavors of cake mix, such as vanilla or chocolate, to create unique variations of these brownies. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, so adjust the toppings accordingly.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese?
While cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the brownies, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. This will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still provide a creamy texture.
How can I tell when the brownies are done baking?
The brownies are done when they are set in the middle and lightly golden on top. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).