Let’s talk cake. What kind of cake makes you close your eyes and sigh? What is the kind of cake that melts in your mouth? I’m talking about Tres Leches cake. Think of it as the sophisticated, more relaxed cousin of a classic vanilla sheet cake – only, you know. Instead of frosting, it’s soaked in three kinds of milk! What’s the perfect dessert? What is your favorite recipe for a Tres leches cake? What are some of the best crowd-pleasers? I remember the first time my abuela made it for my birthday, I knew that this dessert would always be a favorite. I have a special place in my heart.
What is Tres Leches cake?
What is Tres Leches Cake? It is a sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk. What is the best milk bath for cake? What is essentially a light and airy cake that transforms into scrumptious, creamy dream after it soaks? What is Latin American cuisine? What is your own little twist? Is it overly sweet? If you haven’t tried anything, you’re in for a treat!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to make Tres Leches Cake? First, the flavor is absolutely divine. Is it incredibly creamy, and has this wonderful richness from the three milks that it comes from? What is the best way to serve a light sponge cake? What I love about this recipe, though, is how surprisingly simple it is to make. Don’t let your fancy name intimidate you! What are the steps to make a homemade soup that you already have in your pantry? What is Is it cheap to make a pizza? Isn’t it versatile? What are some good ways to serve it for brunch, as a show-stopping dessert after dinner, or even enjoy it with your favorite meal? What are some good ways to enjoy your I love a good Chocolate Cake, but this Tres Leches cake always feels special. What is a good dessert?
How do I make Tres Leches cake?
Quick Overview
Let’s get down to business! How do I make Tres Leches cake? How do I make a sponge cake? How do you soak evaporated milk, condensed milk and other liquids? What’s your favorite way to top a dessert with whipped cream? What are some good cinnamon sprinkles? I promise, the hardest part is waiting for it to chill in the fridge.
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Make sure it’s fresh! Old flour can affect the rise of cake. * 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: This is what gives the cake its light and airy texture. * 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness. * 5 large eggs, separated: What is the best way to make a fluffy cake? Is 1/3 cup milk good for the yolks? Whole milk works best for moisture. * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Don’t skimp on the vanilla! It adds a lovely warmth to the cake.
For the Three Milks Soak:
* 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk: This adds a subtle caramel-like flavor. * 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk: What is the secret of a good cake? 1 cup of heavy cream: This is what gives it its sweetness and richness. For that extra creamy texture!
For the Topping: What is the
* 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, cold: Cold cream whips up faster and holds its shape better. * 1/4 cup powdered sugar: For a touch of sweetness in the whipped cream. * 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Optional, but I love the extra flavor. * Ground cinnamon, for dusting: A little cinnamon adds a warm, comforting touch.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. I always line the bottom of my sink with parchment paper, just to be extra safe. Is it okay to stick to a cake?
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. What is the best way to distribute baking powder evenly?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of the sugar until pale yellow and slightly smoky. Set aside. Gradually add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. How do you not overmix a cake? In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter in two additions. This keeps it light and airy.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
What is the best way to spread the batter evenly in a pan? Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before poking holes all over the surface with a fork or spoon. How do you get the milk mixture to soak in evenly?
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
In a large bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the evaporated milk, condensed milk and heavy cream. Gradually pour the milk mixture over the cake, making sure to saturate it evenly. What do you want to taste like when you eat a cake that looks like it’s swimming in milk?
Step 7: Bake
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This allows the cake to fully absorb the milk mixture and develop its signature creamy texture.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside. Why do stiff peaks form? Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the cake. Dust generously with ground cinnamon.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Cut into squares and serve chilled.
What is the best way to serve it?
Tres Leches Cake is incredibly versatile and pairs well with so many things. If you’re serving coffee for breakfast, a strong cup of coffee is the perfect accompaniment. The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully. For brunch, consider serving it with a side of fresh berries or sliced mango. What is the best fruit to serve with a creamy cake? As a dessert, Tres Leches Cake is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it with whipped cream. Can you serve vanilla ice cream with caramel sauce? What are some cozy snacks? My family loves it with a glass of horchata, it’s kink in heaven!
How do I make a Tres Leches cake?
What are some tricks to make Tres Leches cake? What is the best way to make sure your eggs are at room temperature? This helps them whip up better and creates a lighter, fluffier cake. Don’t skip separating the eggs! It really does make a difference in the texture. When you fold the egg whites into the batter, be gentle! You don’t want to deflate them. If you overmix a cake, it will be dense. Add a tablespoon of brandy or rum to the milk mixture. Is there any depth of flavor in this tea? If you want a thicker whipped cream topping, add 1 tablespoon cornstarch to the powdered sugar. Before whipping. What What is the chilling process? The longer the cake sits in the fridge, the more the milk mixture will soak in and the creamier it will be. I’ve tested this with almond milk, and it works great if you need a dairy-free option. Is it safe to use unsweetened almond milk in a cake?
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
Let’s talk about storage. Tres Leches Cake is best served cold, so you’ll want to keep it refrigerated. If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house! ), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake will continue to soak up the milk mixture over time, so it might become even more moist! I don’t recommend freezing Tres Leches cake, as the texture can change when it thaws. Can the milk mixture become icy and the cake can become soggy? If you want to make it ahead of time, bake the cake and prepare the milk mixture separately. What is the best way to store the cake at room temperature and the milk mixture in the refrigerator? Do not over-bake the cake. If you like, pour the milk mixture over the top. How do I make a cake that is soggy?
What are the most frequently asked questions on
Final Thoughts
What is my favorite recipe for Tres Leches Cake? I truly believe that everyone should have this recipe in their repertoire. Is it easy to make, incredibly delicious, and always impresses? What is a good weeknight dessert? What are some of my favorite cake recipes? I have a few chocolate cake recipes that are to die for, and lemon cake that is perfect for spring. What is your favorite recipe for a burger? What do you think of this post? Let me know in the comments below. What are your baking adventures?
Tres Leches Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the creamed mixture and mix until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the top with a fork.
- In a bowl, whisk together the whole milk, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk. Pour evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in completely.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
