Tres Leches Cake Recipe (with Video)

Tres Leches Cake Recipe: Tres Leches Cake, a cherished dessert across Latin America, has a unique, creamy texture and sweet flavor that’s simply irresistible. Meaning “three milks” in Spanish, Tres Leches is a sponge cake soaked in a blend of three different types of milk: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. This soaking process gives the cake its iconic moist texture and rich taste, unlike any other cake. Although its exact origin is debated, Tres Leches is most widely associated with Mexico and has become a staple dessert across the world.

Ingredients Needed for Tres Leches Cake

Before diving into the recipe, gather all the ingredients. This will make the process much smoother and more enjoyable.

For the Cake:

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 5 large eggs (separate yolks and whites)
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup of whole milk
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

For the Milk Mixture:

• 1 cup of evaporated milk
• 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Tip: Always opt for fresh, quality ingredients to get the best taste and texture in your Tres Leches Cake.

Tools You’ll Need

Here’s a list of tools to ensure an effortless cake-making process:

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Medium and large mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Poke tool (fork or skewer)
• Whisk for whipping cream (or electric mixer for ease)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Tres Leches Cake

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the Oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Separate the Eggs: In separate bowls, place the egg whites and yolks. This separation allows for better control in whipping up the egg whites and creating a fluffy cake.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps avoid any lumps in the batter.
4. Beat the Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the milk and vanilla extract, stirring until combined.
5. Whisk the Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Slowly add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and continue to beat until you get stiff peaks.
6. Combine and Fold: Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture to maintain the batter’s fluffiness. Then, gradually fold in the dry ingredients.

Step 2: Baking the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. It should be slightly warm but not hot before you add the milk mixture.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking time to avoid over-browning.

Step 3: Creating the Milk Mixture

This milk mixture is what makes Tres Leches cake so unique.

1. In a mixing bowl, combine evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream.
2. Whisk until the three milks are fully blended into a smooth, creamy liquid.
3. Set aside to pour over the cake once it’s ready.

Step 4: Soaking the Cake

This is the signature step in creating Tres Leches cake’s incredibly moist texture.

1. Once the cake has cooled, use a fork or skewer to poke holes evenly all over the surface.
2. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, making sure it seeps into each hole. This step allows the cake to soak up every bit of the creamy milk mixture.
3. Let the cake sit for at least 30 minutes so it can fully absorb the milk. For best results, refrigerate it for a few hours.

Note: Pour the milk mixture slowly, as rushing can cause the cake to become too soggy.

Step 5: Making the Whipped Cream Topping

A light, airy whipped cream topping is the final touch that makes this dessert visually stunning and delicious.

1. In a mixing bowl, combine heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Use an electric mixer to whip the cream until stiff peaks form. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Be careful not to overbeat, as it can make the cream grainy.

Step 6: Adding the Topping and Decorating

1. Once the cake has absorbed the milk mixture and chilled slightly, spread the whipped cream topping evenly across the surface.
2. For decoration, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon, fresh strawberries, or a handful of toasted coconut flakes. Each adds a unique flair to the presentation and flavor.

Chilling the Cake Before Serving

For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, giving the cake a rich, creamy taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Tres Leches cake chilled, sliced into squares. A dollop of extra whipped cream or a garnish of fresh fruit complements the creamy, soft texture perfectly. This dessert pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing fruit drink.

Storage Tips

Leftover cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered to maintain moisture. Freezing Tres Leches is not recommended, as the texture can become watery once thawed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Cake Too Soggy: Ensure you add the milk mixture slowly, allowing it time to absorb.
• Dry Cake: This could be due to overbaking or not enough milk mixture. Adjust baking time and pour all of the milk mixture over the cake.

Variations to Try

• Chocolate Tres Leches: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate twist.
• Coconut Tres Leches: Substitute coconut milk for one of the milks and add shredded coconut on top.
• Vanilla and Almond Flavoring: Try adding almond extract to the batter or vanilla bean to the milk mixture for added depth.

Healthier and Dairy-Free Alternatives

For a lighter option, use reduced-fat milk options. Dairy-free alternatives include almond, coconut, or oat milk, though they will slightly change the cake’s texture.

FAQs about Tres Leches Cake Recipe

What is Tres Leches Cake?

Tres Leches Cake, which translates to “three milks cake,” is a popular Latin American dessert made by soaking a soft, sponge cake in a mixture of three types of milk: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. The cake is then topped with whipped cream for a deliciously creamy texture.

How do you make Tres Leches Cake from scratch?

To make Tres Leches Cake, start with a basic sponge cake recipe. Once baked and cooled, poke holes across the surface of the cake. Pour the three-milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in for a few hours or overnight. Finish with a layer of whipped cream before serving.

How long does Tres Leches Cake last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Tres Leches Cake can last up to four days. Be sure to cover it well to maintain its moisture and freshness.

Can you make Tres Leches Cake in advance?

Yes, Tres Leches Cake can be made a day ahead. In fact, many people find the cake tastes even better after resting in the fridge overnight, as the flavors have more time to meld.

What toppings go well with Tres Leches Cake?

While whipped cream is the traditional topping, you can also garnish Tres Leches Cake with fresh berries, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or caramel drizzle for added flavor and presentation.

Is Tres Leches Cake gluten-free?

The traditional Tres Leches Cake recipe uses wheat flour, which contains gluten. However, you can make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute.

Can you freeze Tres Leches Cake?

Freezing Tres Leches Cake isn’t recommended, as the texture may change due to the high milk content. Instead, it’s best to enjoy it fresh or within a few days of making.

Conclusion

Tres Leches Cake is an indulgent treat that’s easier to make than it looks, yet sophisticated enough for any occasion. Follow this guide to create a traditional Tres Leches that’s sure to impress, capturing the essence of Latin American cuisine.

References

For those interested in deepening their knowledge or verifying the details provided in the Tres Leches Cake recipe, we have cited trusted sources to offer further reading. These resources can help ensure accuracy and provide additional insights into the traditional preparation methods, ingredients, and variations of this popular dessert. Below are some reputable links that support the information in our recipe and guide you through alternative techniques to achieve the perfect Tres Leches Cake:

1. Authentic Tres Leches Cake Recipe – Allrecipes – A reliable source for traditional recipes, including step-by-step instructions and tips.
2. Tres Leches Cake Tips and Techniques – Food Network – Learn the best methods for achieving the cake’s classic moist texture and balanced sweetness.
3. History and Origins of Tres Leches Cake – TasteAtlas – Explore the cultural background and variations of Tres Leches Cake across different regions.

Using these references, readers can validate the recipe’s details and explore more about the classic Tres Leches Cake.