Tres Leches Cake Recipe

Name: Tres Leches Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 290 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup sugar; 5 large eggs; ½ cup whole milk; 1 can (14 oz sweetened condensed milk); 1 can (12 oz evaporated milk); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Fresh strawberries for garnish

Indulge in the lusciousness of Tres Leches Cake, a beloved dessert that combines three types of milk to create a moist, sweet treat. This recipe will guide you through making this delightful cake from scratch, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any occasion that calls for a sweet celebration. With its rich flavor and fluffy texture, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup sugar
5 large eggs
½ cup whole milk
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fresh strawberries for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 12 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for baking and cooling.

Nutritional Value

One serving (1 slice) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 5g
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Sugar: 30g
This nutritional value is based on a single slice of cake.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, mixing well.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes.
While the cake is baking, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk in a bowl.
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Poke holes all over the top of the cake with a fork.
Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Before serving, whip heavy cream with vanilla and spread over the top.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. For a lighter cake, consider using low-fat milk instead of whole milk. You can also replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

Serving and Pairings

Tres Leches Cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, such as strawberries or mangoes, and can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a unique flavor twist.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover tres leches cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, but be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Cooking Mistakes

Not allowing the cake to cool before soaking.
Poking too few holes in the cake.
Using cold milk mixture instead of room temperature.
Overmixing the batter, leading to a dense cake.
Not chilling the cake long enough for proper soaking.

Helpful Tips

Use a toothpick to check if the cake is fully baked.
Let the cake soak overnight for the best flavor.
Experiment with flavored extracts like almond for a twist.
Always use fresh, good-quality ingredients for the best results.

FAQs

What is tres leches cake?

Tres leches cake is a traditional Latin American dessert soaked in a mixture of three kinds of milk: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. This gives it a moist and rich texture.

Can I make tres leches cake ahead of time?

Yes, tres leches cake can be made a day in advance. In fact, it tastes better when allowed to chill overnight, as it absorbs the milk mixture more thoroughly.

Can I use other flavors in tres leches cake?

Absolutely! You can add vanilla, almond, or citrus extracts to the batter or milk mixture for different flavor profiles. You can also incorporate cocoa powder for a chocolate version.

Is tres leches cake gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can substitute it with gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free version without compromising on taste.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; it should come out clean. Alternatively, the edges should pull away slightly from the pan when done.

Conclusion

Tres leches cake is a delightful and indulgent dessert that brings a taste of Latin America to your table. With its unique texture and rich flavor, this cake is perfect for any celebration or as a sweet treat to enjoy with family and friends. Try this recipe today and savor every delicious bite!