“Crunch!” is the unmistakable sound that echoes in my kitchen every time these Easy Neiman Marcus Cookies come out of the oven. The delightful blend of chewy oats and rich chocolate creates a satisfying treat that welcomes everyone home. This family-friendly recipe is simple enough for even novice bakers, offering the perfect canvas to customize with your favorite mix-ins. Imagine indulging in cookies that not only fill your kitchen with warmth but also make your taste buds sing with each bite. With their crispy edges and soft centers, these cookies are ideal for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to quiet evenings with a cup of tea. Are you ready to whip up a batch of nostalgia and sweetness? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Why are Neiman Marcus Cookies a Must-Try?
Irresistible Texture: The perfect combination of chewy oats and melty chocolate chips creates a delightful crunch that keeps you coming back for more.
Customizable Goodness: Feel free to mix and match ingredients— swap in your favorite nuts or add dried fruits for your unique twist.
Easy to Make: Quick to whip up, this recipe is ideal for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices alike.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: From family gatherings to casual get-togethers, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough in advance and surprise your friends and family with freshly baked cookies anytime; they’ll never shake their heads at delightfully chewy treats from Coffee Cake Cookies.
The blend of nostalgia and homemade charm will fill your kitchen and heart with warmth!
Neiman Marcus Cookie Ingredients
For the Dough
• Steel-Cut or Whole Oats – Adds a chewy texture; can substitute with quick-cooking oats if you’re short on time.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure, essential for achieving that perfect chewy bite.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder – These leavening agents increase the cookie height for a delightful finish.
• Salt – Enhances sweetness while balancing flavors for a rounded taste.
• Unsalted Butter (softened) – Contributes richness and tenderness; always use unsalted to control the sodium content.
• Granulated Sugar – The main sweetener that gives cookies a delightful crispness.
• Brown Sugar (packed) – Adds moisture and caramel flavor; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a delicious alternative.
• Large Eggs (room temperature) – Binds all the ingredients together, ensuring a sturdy cookie structure.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor, so opt for high-quality vanilla for the best result.
For the Sweetness
• Chocolate Chips – Choose from milk, dark, or semi-sweet to personalize the taste to your liking.
• Hershey’s Bar (grated) – Intensifies chocolate flavor; feel free to substitute with any of your favorite chocolate bars.
• Chopped Nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans) – Adds a satisfying crunch; can be omitted or swapped with seeds for a nut-free option.
These Neiman Marcus Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a canvas for your culinary creativity. Enjoy crafting your perfect batch!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Neiman Marcus Cookies
Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar and 3/4 cup of packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the color is pale and the texture is creamy, perfect for building that delicious base for Neiman Marcus Cookies.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Gradually incorporate 2 large eggs, adding one at a time, along with 2 teaspoons of high-quality vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture becomes a smooth, creamy batter, ensuring the eggs are fully integrated to provide structure and moisture to your cookie dough.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of steel-cut or whole oats, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This step is essential for achieving that chewy texture and optimal height in your Neiman Marcus Cookies, so ensure everything is well combined before moving on.
Step 4: Mix Together
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, gently folding them together with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies. The dough should be slightly sticky and hold together nicely, perfect for shaping later.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Nuts
Carefully fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of grated Hershey’s bar, along with any chopped nuts you desire. Stir just until the mix-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating delightful pockets of chocolate in your Neiman Marcus Cookies.
Step 6: Chill the Dough (Optional)
For enhanced flavor and to prevent excessive spreading during baking, refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 20 minutes. Chilling helps develop the taste and texture, making your cookies even more irresistible once baked.
Step 7: Preheat Oven and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while your dough chills. Once ready, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges turn golden brown and the centers look slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy center.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This brief cooling helps maintain their shape while letting the centers firm up, resulting in the chewy Neiman Marcus Cookies you’ll love!
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 it completely, then covering it tightly and placing it in the refrigerator to enhance flavor. Alternatively, form the cookie dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; this way, you can bake fresh cookies whenever you crave them. Just remember to let the frozen dough sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This approach will help maintain the cookies’ chewy texture and rich flavor, so you’re always just a few steps away from delicious homemade treats!
What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Cookies
These delightful cookies pair beautifully with various dishes and drinks, completing your perfect snack or dessert experience.
- Glass of Cold Milk: Nothing beats the classic pairing of milk and cookies, enhancing the cookie’s rich chocolatey flavor.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the Neiman Marcus cookies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts deliciously over warm cookies, creating a heavenly dessert experience.
- Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold notes of a hot cup of coffee beautifully balance the cookie’s sweetness, perfect for an afternoon treat.
- Fruit Salad: A light, colorful fruit salad introduces a burst of freshness that brightens up the sweet indulgence of each bite.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a rich, creamy contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies, making for a delightful combination.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the cookies introduces an extra layer of sweetness that is purely irresistible.
- Chocolate Milkshake: For the ultimate indulgence, pair your cookies with a thick chocolate milkshake for a wonderful, nostalgic treat.
- Cheese Platter: A mix of savory cheeses and crackers cuts through the cookie’s sweetness, offering a sophisticated touch to your snack.
- Nutty Granola: A small bowl of nutty granola sprinkled alongside the cookies adds a delightful crunch and wholesome feel to your treat.
How to Store and Freeze Neiman Marcus Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store cooled Neiman Marcus cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
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Fridge: Keep cookies in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, ensuring they’re in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap them securely in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
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Reheating: To enjoy a warm, chewy treat, thaw cookies at room temperature or microwave briefly for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Neiman Marcus Cookies: Creative Variations
Feel free to explore fun and delicious twists on this classic recipe that bring out your culinary creativity!
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Whole Grain Oats: Substitute steel-cut oats for old-fashioned rolled oats for a hearty texture. You’ll create a cookie that’s both chewy and rustic.
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Nut-Free Delight: Swap out the nuts for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to make a delightful nut-free treat. Kids and guests with allergies will appreciate this thoughtful variation!
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Dried Fruit Boost: Consider adding chopped dried cherries or cranberries for a fruity burst. It pairs splendidly with chocolate and adds a chewy bite that will surprise your taste buds.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or even a pinch of cayenne for a warm, spicy twist. It adds an unexpected flavor depth that enchants every bite!
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Chocolate Lovers: For an ultimate chocolate experience, double the chocolate chips and add cocoa powder to the dry mix. This turns an already indulgent cookie to purely decadent territory, perfect for chocolate enthusiasts!
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Vanilla Extract Swap: Try using almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty aroma that transforms the flavor profile beautifully. It’s an easy way to introduce a new taste dimension to your cookies.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some melted caramel over the cooled cookies for a touch of gooey sweetness. It elevates your cookies to a dessert-level treat, making them perfect for special occasions!
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Cookie Sandwiches: Use your cookies to make delightful sandwiches with your choice of frosting or ice cream in between. They become chewy, creamy creations that everyone will adore!
With so many options, you’ll find that these Neiman Marcus cookies can cater to any mood or event. If you’re interested in trying more cookie recipes, don’t miss these irresistible Style Oreo Cookies or sweet Birthday Cake Cookies for the next time you want to celebrate!
Expert Tips for Neiman Marcus Cookies
Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level technique for measuring flour to avoid dense cookies and ensure a perfect chewy texture.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough for at least 20 minutes—this step is crucial for achieving those chewy Neiman Marcus Cookies and preventing them from spreading too much in the oven.
Properly Soften Butter: Make sure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature for optimal creaming; this helps achieve a light and fluffy mixture.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix dough just until incorporated to maintain a tender texture; overmixing can lead to tough cookies that don’t have that desired chew.
Watch Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies during baking; slightly underbaking for a couple of minutes will ensure a delightful chewy center that’s hard to resist.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment with mix-ins, but be careful not to overload them, as too many can affect the chewy balance of your Neiman Marcus Cookies.
Neiman Marcus Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of oats should I use for Neiman Marcus cookies?
Absolutely! Steel-cut or whole oats add the chewiest texture to the cookies. If you’re short on time, quick-cooking oats can be used as a convenient substitute without compromising much on that delightful chewiness.
How should I store Neiman Marcus cookies?
Store cooled Neiman Marcus cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 7 days. Just be sure to seal them tightly to maintain their taste and texture!
Can I freeze Neiman Marcus cookies?
Yes! For longer storage, you can freeze Neiman Marcus cookies for up to 3 months. To do so, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked goodness.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too dry?
If you find that your cookie dough is too dry, don’t worry! Simply add a tablespoon of milk or water to the mixture and mix gently until combined. This can help achieve the perfect consistency needed for those chewy Neiman Marcus cookies. Alternatively, if you notice the dough is too wet, you can sprinkle in a bit more flour, but do this gradually to avoid over-drying it.
Are Neiman Marcus cookies safe for pets?
No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from your pets. Ingredients like chocolate and certain nuts can be harmful to dogs and other animals. Stick to pet-safe treats for your furry friends to keep them happy and safe!
Can I customize the mix-ins for these cookies?
Very much so! Feel free to experiment with various mix-ins. You could add dried fruits, different kinds of nuts, or even switch to white chocolate chips! Just make sure not to overload the dough, as that can affect the chewy balance of your Neiman Marcus cookies.
These Neiman Marcus Cookies Recipe FAQs should help you create the ultimate batch of deliciousness. Enjoy baking!
Neiman Marcus Cookies: A Chewy Delight for Every Occasion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugars - Beat butter with granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla - Gradually incorporate eggs and vanilla extract.
- Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients - Whisk flour, oats, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 4: Mix Together - Slowly add dry ingredients to wet mixture, folding gently.
- Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Nuts - Carefully incorporate chocolate chips, grated bar, and nuts.
- Step 6: Chill the Dough (Optional) - Refrigerate dough for at least 20 minutes.
- Step 7: Preheat Oven and Bake - Preheat oven to 375°F, scoop dough onto sheets, and bake.
- Step 8: Cool and Serve - Cool cookies briefly before transferring to wire racks.