Tres Leches Cake, or “Three Milks Cake” in Spanish, originates from Latin America and is renowned for its unique preparation. This indulgent dessert is soaked in a blend of three different kinds of milk—evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream—resulting in a moist, decadent treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for Tres Leches Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 5 large eggs (separated)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Milk Mixture:
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries
Recipe Directions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
2. Whip Egg Whites:
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add half a cup of sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Combine Egg Yolks:
- In another bowl, beat egg yolks with the remaining half cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in milk and vanilla extract.
4. Combine Mixtures:
- Gently fold egg yolk mixture into whipped egg whites. Gradually fold in sifted dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Bake the Cake:
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Prepare the Milk Mixture:
- Whisk together sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream in a separate bowl.
7. Soak the Cake:
- Once cooled for about 10 minutes, poke the cake all over with a fork. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to absorb the liquid. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
8. Add Toppings (Optional):
- Before serving, decorate the cake with whipped cream and fresh berries.
Tips and Notes:
- Serving: Tres Leches Cake is best served chilled, allowing flavors to meld together for a refreshing dessert.
- Soaking Time: Longer soaking results in a more moist cake. Overnight soaking creates an incredibly moist texture.
- Variations: Add a splash of rum or a hint of cinnamon to the milk mixture for a unique twist.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Tres Leches Cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. The cake tends to become even more flavorful as it sits in the milk mixture.
Conclusion
Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Tres Leches Cake! This beloved dessert celebrates flavors and textures that are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Try this recipe and savor every luscious bite of this heavenly treat.