Tres Leches Cake

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

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of three milks ensures every bite is decadently moist without being soggy.
• Light and Airy Texture: The sponge cake base is designed to absorb the milk mixture while maintaining a delicate, airy structure.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe is straightforward and accessible.
• Versatile Topping Options: Customize with fresh fruits, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel to suit your taste.

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Separate the eggs into two large bowls. Beat the egg yolks with a portion of the sugar until pale and fluffy. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
   • In the other bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
   • Gently fold the egg yolk mixture into the flour mixture, then carefully fold in the egg whites until just combined.
2. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
   • Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
3. Soak the Cake:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed 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 soaks in evenly.
   • Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the milk mixture to fully absorb.
4. Top the Cake:
   • Before serving, whip the heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
   • Spread the whipped cream over the soaked cake.
   • Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh fruit slices.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
• Preparation Time: About 20 minutes.
• Cooking Time: 25 to 30 minutes.
• Chilling Time: At least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Variations

• Chocolate Tres Leches: Add cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolaty twist.
• Coconut Tres Leches: Substitute coconut milk for one of the milks and top with toasted coconut flakes.
• Nutty Flavor: Fold finely chopped nuts into the batter or sprinkle on top for added texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover the cake tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: It’s best to freeze the cake without the milk mixture. Bake the sponge, wrap it well, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and proceed with the soaking and topping steps when ready to serve.

FAQs

What is Tres Leches Cake?

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

Can I make Tres Leches Cake ahead of time?

Yes, making it a day in advance allows the cake to fully absorb the milk mixture, enhancing its flavor and texture.

Is Tres Leches Cake supposed to be soggy?

No, the cake should be moist but not soggy. The sponge cake’s airy structure allows it to absorb the milk mixture without becoming overly dense.

Can I use a cake mix for Tres Leches Cake?

While homemade sponge cake is traditional, you can use a boxed cake mix in a pinch. Ensure it’s a light and airy variety to absorb the milk mixture effectively.

How do I prevent the cake from falling apart when soaked?

Using a sponge cake with a sturdy yet airy structure helps maintain integrity after soaking. Cooling the cake completely before adding the milk mixture also aids in preventing it from falling apart.

Can I add alcohol to the milk mixture?

Yes, adding a splash of rum or brandy to the milk mixture can impart a unique flavor. Use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dessert.

What toppings go well with Tres Leches Cake?

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

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

Yes, substitute the dairy milks with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, and dairy-free condensed milk. Note that this will alter the flavor and texture slightly.

Why did my cake not absorb all the milk mixture?

If the cake is too dense or not enough holes were poked, it may not absorb the milk mixture properly. Ensure you’re using a light sponge cake and adequately perforate the surface before soaking.

Can I use low-fat milk options?

Full-fat milks contribute to the rich flavor and texture of Tres Leches Cake. Using low-fat alternatives may result in a less decadent dessert.

Conclusion

Tres Leches Cake is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with indulgence. Its moist, flavorful crumb and versatile nature make it a favorite for gatherings and special occasions. By following this recipe, you’ll create a delightful treat that’s sure to impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.

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