Introduction
Tres Leches Cake is a beloved Latin American dessert that truly lives up to its reputation as a sweet indulgence. This moist and decadent sponge cake is soaked in a rich mixture of three types of milk, resulting in a reveal of creamy goodness in every bite. Topped with a cloud of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, each slice brings a delightful burst of flavor that’s perfect for any celebration or simply a cozy night in. Let’s dive in so you can make this delightful treat for your loved ones!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup whole milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Additional sugar for whipping cream (optional)
- Ground cinnamon for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it generously to ensure your cake doesn’t stick.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This will be the foundation for your fluffy cake, so set it aside for now.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and eggs. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Add the vanilla extract and whole milk to the egg mixture, mixing until everything is harmoniously combined.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until you can no longer see the flour. This gentle mixing helps keep your cake light and airy.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it’s perfectly baked.
- After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, take a fork and poke holes all over the top of the cake—this step is crucial as it allows the luscious milk mixture to soak into the cake.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. Pour this milk mixture evenly over the cooled cake—watch as it seeps into those holes, creating a moist, flavorful cake!
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, though leaving it overnight will deepen the flavors for maximum indulgence.
- Before serving, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. If you prefer a sweeter topping, feel free to add a bit of sugar to your whipped cream to taste.
- Spread the whipped cream generously over the top of the cake and sprinkle with ground cinnamon for a fragrant finish if desired.
Notes or Tips
If you want to give this cake a unique twist, consider adding a splash of coconut milk to the milk mixture for a tropical flair. Remember, the longer the cake sits in the refrigerator, the more it soaks up the creamy goodness, making it even more delicious!
Cooking Techniques
The key to a successful Tres Leches Cake lies in its soaking technique. Poking holes in the baked cake allows the milks to penetrate deeply, ensuring every slice is moist and bursting with flavor. Additionally, when whipping your cream, start with chilled utensils and heavy cream for the best volume and texture.
FAQ
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Tres Leches Cake is perfect for making ahead, as it gets better as it chills and soaks up the milks.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to 3 days. Just be sure to eat it before it disappears!
Conclusion
There you have it—a heavenly Tres Leches Cake that’s sure to impress your family and friends! Whether it’s for a celebration or a simple dessert after dinner, this cake is a delightful treat that will sweep everyone away with its rich, creamy texture and the warmth of home-baked goodness. Enjoy every velvety bite!