Tres Leches Cake

Tres Leches Cake is a beloved Latin American dessert known for its moist, tender crumb and rich flavor. This sponge cake is soaked in a mixture of three milks—evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream—resulting in a delectably luscious treat that’s both light and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake offers a unique combination of textures and flavors. The airy sponge cake absorbs the sweet milk mixture without becoming soggy, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and a hint of cinnamon, it’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• For the Cake:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Eggs
  • Granulated sugar
  • Whole milk
  • Vanilla extract
• For the Three-Milk Mixture:
  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Evaporated milk
  • Heavy cream
• For the Topping:
  • Heavy whipping cream
  • Granulated sugar or powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract
  • Ground cinnamon (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs with granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
   • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
2. Soak the Cake:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream.
   • Once the cake has cooled, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the surface.
   • Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes and is evenly distributed.
   • Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the milk mixture to fully absorb.
3. Add the Topping:
   • In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
   • Spread the whipped cream evenly over the soaked cake.
   • Lightly dust with ground cinnamon, if desired.
4. Serve:
   • Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled. Optionally, garnish with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Chilling Time: At least 4 hours (preferably overnight)

Variations

• Chocolate Tres Leches: Add 1/3 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolaty twist.
• Coconut Tres Leches: Substitute coconut milk for the heavy cream in the milk mixture and top the cake with toasted coconut flakes.
• Spiked Tres Leches: Add a splash of rum or Kahlua to the milk mixture for an adult version of the dessert.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: It’s best to freeze the cake without the whipped cream topping. Wrap the cooled, unsoaked cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator, then add the milk mixture and topping before serving.

FAQs

What is Tres Leches Cake?

Tres Leches Cake is a sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three kinds of milk: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream, resulting in a moist and flavorful dessert.

Can I make Tres Leches Cake ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually recommended to make it a day in advance to allow the cake to fully absorb the milk mixture.

Why is my Tres Leches Cake soggy?

The cake should be moist but not soggy. Ensure you’re using a sponge cake that can hold the milk mixture without becoming overly saturated.

Can I use a cake mix for Tres Leches Cake?

Yes, a yellow cake mix can be used as a shortcut, but a homemade sponge cake often yields better results.

Is Tres Leches Cake supposed to be refrigerated?

Yes, due to the dairy content, it should be stored in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze Tres Leches Cake?

It’s best to freeze the cake before adding the milk mixture and topping. Once soaked and topped, freezing is not recommended.

What toppings can I add to Tres Leches Cake?

Common toppings include whipped cream, fresh berries, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease the baking dish thoroughly and consider lining the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal.

Can I make a dairy-free version of Tres Leches Cake?

Yes, substitute the three milks with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk, almond milk, and coconut cream.

What is the origin of Tres Leches Cake?

Tres Leches Cake has origins in Latin America, with variations found in countries like Mexico, Nicaragua, and Guatemala.

Conclusion

Tres Leches Cake is a delightful dessert that combines a light sponge cake with a rich, creamy milk infusion, topped with airy whipped cream. Its unique texture and flavor make it a favorite for many, and with various adaptations, it can suit a range of tastes and occasions. Whether you’re new to this dessert or a longtime fan, this recipe offers a classic approach to creating a truly indulgent treat.

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