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Classic Tres Leches Cake Rich and Moist Delight

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- 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder - ¼ teaspoon salt - 5 large eggs, separated - 1 cup granulated sugar, divided - ½ cup whole milk - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk - 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk - 1 cup heavy cream - Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries) for garnish - Ground cinnamon for dusting (optional) To create the perfect tres leches cake, you need a mix of basic and rich ingredients. Start with all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to form the cake's base. The eggs play a crucial role. You separate the whites from the yolks, using both for texture and sweetness. You will need 5 large eggs. Use ¾ cup of sugar for the yolks and ¼ cup for the whites. This balance helps the cake rise and stay light. For the milk, you’ll use a blend of whole milk, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk. This combination gives the cake its signature moistness. Don't forget the heavy cream for a rich topping. Finally, fresh berries add a touch of color and sweetness. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon is optional but can elevate the flavor. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the right temperature for baking. While it heats, take your 9x13-inch baking dish. Grease it well with butter or cooking spray. Then, dust it lightly with flour. This will help the cake come out easily later. Next, we need to mix the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Set this mixture aside. Now, grab a large bowl for the egg yolks. Beat 5 large egg yolks with ¾ cup of granulated sugar. Mix until it turns pale and creamy. Add ½ cup of whole milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to this bowl. Stir until everything combines well. Gradually add the dry mixture to the yolk mixture. Mix just until combined. Now, let’s whip the egg whites. In another bowl, beat the 5 egg whites until soft peaks form. Slowly add the remaining ¼ cup of sugar. Keep beating until stiff peaks form. To combine, gently fold the egg whites into the cake batter. Do this in three parts. Be careful not to deflate the mixture. This step is key to keeping your cake light and airy. Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake the cake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check if it is done by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. After baking, let the cake cool completely in the pan. Cooling is important before soaking it in the tres leches mixture. To get a soft and fluffy cake, you must fold the egg whites gently. This keeps the air in the mixture. If you mix too hard, you lose that lightness. Take your time. When you fold, use a spatula or a large spoon. Go from the bottom to the top. Repeat until the egg whites blend in but still look fluffy. To avoid a dry cake, do not bake too long. Watch for when a toothpick comes out clean but not too soon. Another tip is to soak the cake well in the tres leches mixture. This makes the cake moist and rich. Let it soak for at least one hour or overnight for the best taste. When serving, cut the cake into squares. A sharp knife helps you make clean cuts. Place each piece on a plate. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a nice look. You can also add a few fresh berries for color. Strawberries and blueberries work great. For a final touch, sprinkle some ground cinnamon over the cake. This adds flavor and a pretty finish. A good presentation makes your cake even more inviting. Pro Tips Choose the Right Pan: Using a glass or ceramic dish can help the cake bake evenly and retain moisture, resulting in a perfectly soaked tres leches cake. Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before soaking it in the milk mixture to prevent it from becoming too soggy too quickly. Soak Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, let the cake soak in the tres leches mixture overnight in the refrigerator. Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks: When whipping the cream for the topping, beat it until stiff peaks form to ensure it holds its shape when spread over the cake. {{image_2}} You can play with the flavor of your tres leches cake. Adding different extracts can change the taste. Try almond extract for a nutty flavor. Coconut extract gives a tropical touch. You can also mix in spices like nutmeg or cardamom for warmth. Incorporating tropical fruits can enhance your cake too. Fresh mango, passion fruit, or even pineapple can add brightness. Slice them thin and layer them on top of the cake. They add both flavor and color. If you need gluten-free options, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many stores sell mixes that work well in cakes. Just check the package for the right measurements. For dairy-free options, use almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk. Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich texture. These simple swaps allow everyone to enjoy this treat. To keep your tres leches cake fresh, follow these easy tips: - Refrigeration: Store the cake in the fridge. Cover it with plastic wrap or a lid. This keeps it from drying out. The cake stays moist and delicious this way. - Shelf Life: If stored properly, the cake lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. After that, it may lose its great taste and texture. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. You can freeze tres leches cake if you want to save some for later. Here’s how: - Freezing: Cut the cake into individual pieces. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. This helps keep moisture in. - Thawing Tips: To enjoy the cake, move it to the fridge. Let it thaw overnight. This method helps keep the cake’s moist texture. Avoid microwaving it, which can make it dry. Following these storage tips gives you the best chance to savor your delicious tres leches cake. Enjoy every bite! Tres Leches Cake is a famous Mexican dessert. It translates to "three milks cake." This cake is light and moist. It gets its name from the three types of milk used in the recipe. These milks are evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. The cake absorbs these milks, making it rich and tender. People often enjoy it at parties and celebrations. Yes, you can make Tres Leches Cake in advance. It actually tastes better the next day! After soaking the cake, cover it well. Store it in the fridge until you are ready to serve. This helps the flavors blend together. Just remember to whip the cream topping right before serving. This keeps it fresh and fluffy. If your Tres Leches Cake is too soggy, don't worry. You can fix it! First, check how much milk you added. If you soaked the cake too long, that might be the cause. Next time, try soaking it for a shorter time. You can also serve it with less milk. Lastly, ensure that you poke the holes evenly. This helps the cake soak up just the right amount of milk. If you want to skip heavy cream, try these options. You can use coconut cream for a tropical twist. Whole milk or half-and-half also works well. For a lighter option, try whipped topping made from plant-based cream. These alternatives keep your cake creamy and delicious. In this post, I covered the key steps to making a great Tres Leches Cake. You learned about the important ingredients, how to mix them properly, and the baking process. I also shared tips for perfect texture and presentation. You can experiment with flavors and find ways to store your cake. Remember, practice leads to the best results. With the right techniques, you’ll impress everyone with your dessert. Enjoy baking and tasting this delicious treat!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to master the art of classic Tres Leches Cake? This rich and moist delight brings a taste of tradition right to your kitchen. Imagine a soft, milk-soaked sponge that melts in your mouth, drenched in three types of milk. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the simple steps to create this beloved Mexican dessert. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, let’s dive into the ingredients, instructions, and tips to make your cake shine!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Decadently Moist: This cake is soaked in a three-milk mixture, making it incredibly moist and luscious with every bite.
  2. Simple Ingredients: Using basic pantry ingredients, this recipe requires minimal effort to achieve a gourmet dessert.
  3. Impressive Presentation: Garnished with fresh berries and whipped cream, it looks stunning on any dessert table.
  4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or casual gathering, this tres leches cake is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

– ¼ teaspoon salt

– 5 large eggs, separated

– 1 cup granulated sugar, divided

– ½ cup whole milk

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk

– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

– 1 cup heavy cream

– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries) for garnish

– Ground cinnamon for dusting (optional)

To create the perfect tres leches cake, you need a mix of basic and rich ingredients. Start with all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to form the cake’s base. The eggs play a crucial role. You separate the whites from the yolks, using both for texture and sweetness.

You will need 5 large eggs. Use ¾ cup of sugar for the yolks and ¼ cup for the whites. This balance helps the cake rise and stay light.

For the milk, you’ll use a blend of whole milk, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk. This combination gives the cake its signature moistness. Don’t forget the heavy cream for a rich topping.

Finally, fresh berries add a touch of color and sweetness. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon is optional but can elevate the flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Baking Dish

First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the right temperature for baking. While it heats, take your 9×13-inch baking dish. Grease it well with butter or cooking spray. Then, dust it lightly with flour. This will help the cake come out easily later.

Mixing and Combining Ingredients

Next, we need to mix the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Set this mixture aside.

Now, grab a large bowl for the egg yolks. Beat 5 large egg yolks with ¾ cup of granulated sugar. Mix until it turns pale and creamy. Add ½ cup of whole milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to this bowl. Stir until everything combines well.

Gradually add the dry mixture to the yolk mixture. Mix just until combined. Now, let’s whip the egg whites. In another bowl, beat the 5 egg whites until soft peaks form. Slowly add the remaining ¼ cup of sugar. Keep beating until stiff peaks form.

To combine, gently fold the egg whites into the cake batter. Do this in three parts. Be careful not to deflate the mixture. This step is key to keeping your cake light and airy.

Baking Process

Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake the cake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check if it is done by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready.

After baking, let the cake cool completely in the pan. Cooling is important before soaking it in the tres leches mixture.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Cake Texture

To get a soft and fluffy cake, you must fold the egg whites gently. This keeps the air in the mixture. If you mix too hard, you lose that lightness. Take your time. When you fold, use a spatula or a large spoon. Go from the bottom to the top. Repeat until the egg whites blend in but still look fluffy.

To avoid a dry cake, do not bake too long. Watch for when a toothpick comes out clean but not too soon. Another tip is to soak the cake well in the tres leches mixture. This makes the cake moist and rich. Let it soak for at least one hour or overnight for the best taste.

Presentation Techniques

When serving, cut the cake into squares. A sharp knife helps you make clean cuts. Place each piece on a plate. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a nice look. You can also add a few fresh berries for color. Strawberries and blueberries work great.

For a final touch, sprinkle some ground cinnamon over the cake. This adds flavor and a pretty finish. A good presentation makes your cake even more inviting.

Pro Tips

  1. Choose the Right Pan: Using a glass or ceramic dish can help the cake bake evenly and retain moisture, resulting in a perfectly soaked tres leches cake.
  2. Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before soaking it in the milk mixture to prevent it from becoming too soggy too quickly.
  3. Soak Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, let the cake soak in the tres leches mixture overnight in the refrigerator.
  4. Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks: When whipping the cream for the topping, beat it until stiff peaks form to ensure it holds its shape when spread over the cake.

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can play with the flavor of your tres leches cake. Adding different extracts can change the taste. Try almond extract for a nutty flavor. Coconut extract gives a tropical touch. You can also mix in spices like nutmeg or cardamom for warmth.

Incorporating tropical fruits can enhance your cake too. Fresh mango, passion fruit, or even pineapple can add brightness. Slice them thin and layer them on top of the cake. They add both flavor and color.

Dietary Adjustments

If you need gluten-free options, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many stores sell mixes that work well in cakes. Just check the package for the right measurements.

For dairy-free options, use almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk. Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich texture. These simple swaps allow everyone to enjoy this treat.

Storage Info

Proper Storage Techniques

To keep your tres leches cake fresh, follow these easy tips:

– Refrigeration: Store the cake in the fridge. Cover it with plastic wrap or a lid. This keeps it from drying out. The cake stays moist and delicious this way.

– Shelf Life: If stored properly, the cake lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. After that, it may lose its great taste and texture. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze tres leches cake if you want to save some for later. Here’s how:

– Freezing: Cut the cake into individual pieces. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. This helps keep moisture in.

– Thawing Tips: To enjoy the cake, move it to the fridge. Let it thaw overnight. This method helps keep the cake’s moist texture. Avoid microwaving it, which can make it dry.

Following these storage tips gives you the best chance to savor your delicious tres leches cake. Enjoy every bite!

FAQs

What is Tres Leches Cake?

Tres Leches Cake is a famous Mexican dessert. It translates to “three milks cake.” This cake is light and moist. It gets its name from the three types of milk used in the recipe. These milks are evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. The cake absorbs these milks, making it rich and tender. People often enjoy it at parties and celebrations.

Can I make Tres Leches Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Tres Leches Cake in advance. It actually tastes better the next day! After soaking the cake, cover it well. Store it in the fridge until you are ready to serve. This helps the flavors blend together. Just remember to whip the cream topping right before serving. This keeps it fresh and fluffy.

How do I fix a soggy Tres Leches Cake?

If your Tres Leches Cake is too soggy, don’t worry. You can fix it! First, check how much milk you added. If you soaked the cake too long, that might be the cause. Next time, try soaking it for a shorter time. You can also serve it with less milk. Lastly, ensure that you poke the holes evenly. This helps the cake soak up just the right amount of milk.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want to skip heavy cream, try these options. You can use coconut cream for a tropical twist. Whole milk or half-and-half also works well. For a lighter option, try whipped topping made from plant-based cream. These alternatives keep your cake creamy and delicious.

In this post, I covered the key steps to making a great Tres Leches Cake. You learned about the important ingredients, how to mix them properly, and the baking process. I also shared tips for perfect texture and presentation. You can experiment with flavors and find ways to store your cake. Remember, practice leads to the best results. With the right techniques, you’ll impress everyone with your dessert. Enjoy baking and tasting this delicious trea

- 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder - ¼ teaspoon salt - 5 large eggs, separated - 1 cup granulated sugar, divided - ½ cup whole milk - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk - 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk - 1 cup heavy cream - Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries) for garnish - Ground cinnamon for dusting (optional) To create the perfect tres leches cake, you need a mix of basic and rich ingredients. Start with all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to form the cake's base. The eggs play a crucial role. You separate the whites from the yolks, using both for texture and sweetness. You will need 5 large eggs. Use ¾ cup of sugar for the yolks and ¼ cup for the whites. This balance helps the cake rise and stay light. For the milk, you’ll use a blend of whole milk, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk. This combination gives the cake its signature moistness. Don't forget the heavy cream for a rich topping. Finally, fresh berries add a touch of color and sweetness. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon is optional but can elevate the flavor. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the right temperature for baking. While it heats, take your 9x13-inch baking dish. Grease it well with butter or cooking spray. Then, dust it lightly with flour. This will help the cake come out easily later. Next, we need to mix the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Set this mixture aside. Now, grab a large bowl for the egg yolks. Beat 5 large egg yolks with ¾ cup of granulated sugar. Mix until it turns pale and creamy. Add ½ cup of whole milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to this bowl. Stir until everything combines well. Gradually add the dry mixture to the yolk mixture. Mix just until combined. Now, let’s whip the egg whites. In another bowl, beat the 5 egg whites until soft peaks form. Slowly add the remaining ¼ cup of sugar. Keep beating until stiff peaks form. To combine, gently fold the egg whites into the cake batter. Do this in three parts. Be careful not to deflate the mixture. This step is key to keeping your cake light and airy. Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake the cake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check if it is done by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready. After baking, let the cake cool completely in the pan. Cooling is important before soaking it in the tres leches mixture. To get a soft and fluffy cake, you must fold the egg whites gently. This keeps the air in the mixture. If you mix too hard, you lose that lightness. Take your time. When you fold, use a spatula or a large spoon. Go from the bottom to the top. Repeat until the egg whites blend in but still look fluffy. To avoid a dry cake, do not bake too long. Watch for when a toothpick comes out clean but not too soon. Another tip is to soak the cake well in the tres leches mixture. This makes the cake moist and rich. Let it soak for at least one hour or overnight for the best taste. When serving, cut the cake into squares. A sharp knife helps you make clean cuts. Place each piece on a plate. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a nice look. You can also add a few fresh berries for color. Strawberries and blueberries work great. For a final touch, sprinkle some ground cinnamon over the cake. This adds flavor and a pretty finish. A good presentation makes your cake even more inviting. Pro Tips Choose the Right Pan: Using a glass or ceramic dish can help the cake bake evenly and retain moisture, resulting in a perfectly soaked tres leches cake. Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before soaking it in the milk mixture to prevent it from becoming too soggy too quickly. Soak Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, let the cake soak in the tres leches mixture overnight in the refrigerator. Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks: When whipping the cream for the topping, beat it until stiff peaks form to ensure it holds its shape when spread over the cake. {{image_2}} You can play with the flavor of your tres leches cake. Adding different extracts can change the taste. Try almond extract for a nutty flavor. Coconut extract gives a tropical touch. You can also mix in spices like nutmeg or cardamom for warmth. Incorporating tropical fruits can enhance your cake too. Fresh mango, passion fruit, or even pineapple can add brightness. Slice them thin and layer them on top of the cake. They add both flavor and color. If you need gluten-free options, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many stores sell mixes that work well in cakes. Just check the package for the right measurements. For dairy-free options, use almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk. Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich texture. These simple swaps allow everyone to enjoy this treat. To keep your tres leches cake fresh, follow these easy tips: - Refrigeration: Store the cake in the fridge. Cover it with plastic wrap or a lid. This keeps it from drying out. The cake stays moist and delicious this way. - Shelf Life: If stored properly, the cake lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. After that, it may lose its great taste and texture. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. You can freeze tres leches cake if you want to save some for later. Here’s how: - Freezing: Cut the cake into individual pieces. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. This helps keep moisture in. - Thawing Tips: To enjoy the cake, move it to the fridge. Let it thaw overnight. This method helps keep the cake’s moist texture. Avoid microwaving it, which can make it dry. Following these storage tips gives you the best chance to savor your delicious tres leches cake. Enjoy every bite! Tres Leches Cake is a famous Mexican dessert. It translates to "three milks cake." This cake is light and moist. It gets its name from the three types of milk used in the recipe. These milks are evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. The cake absorbs these milks, making it rich and tender. People often enjoy it at parties and celebrations. Yes, you can make Tres Leches Cake in advance. It actually tastes better the next day! After soaking the cake, cover it well. Store it in the fridge until you are ready to serve. This helps the flavors blend together. Just remember to whip the cream topping right before serving. This keeps it fresh and fluffy. If your Tres Leches Cake is too soggy, don't worry. You can fix it! First, check how much milk you added. If you soaked the cake too long, that might be the cause. Next time, try soaking it for a shorter time. You can also serve it with less milk. Lastly, ensure that you poke the holes evenly. This helps the cake soak up just the right amount of milk. If you want to skip heavy cream, try these options. You can use coconut cream for a tropical twist. Whole milk or half-and-half also works well. For a lighter option, try whipped topping made from plant-based cream. These alternatives keep your cake creamy and delicious. In this post, I covered the key steps to making a great Tres Leches Cake. You learned about the important ingredients, how to mix them properly, and the baking process. I also shared tips for perfect texture and presentation. You can experiment with flavors and find ways to store your cake. Remember, practice leads to the best results. With the right techniques, you’ll impress everyone with your dessert. Enjoy baking and tasting this delicious treat!

Deliciously Decadent Tres Leches Cake

A rich and moist cake soaked in three types of milk, topped with whipped cream and fresh berries.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 12
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 5 large eggs, separated
  • 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 0.5 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • to taste fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries) for garnish
  • to taste ground cinnamon for dusting (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with ¾ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and creamy. Add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
  • Gradually stir in the flour mixture into the egg yolk mixture until just combined.
  • In another bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining ¼ cup of sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
  • Gently fold the egg whites into the cake batter a third at a time, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the pan.
  • In a bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream until well blended.
  • Once the cake is cooled, poke holes all over the top using a fork. Slowly pour the tres leches mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in for at least 1 hour (or overnight in the refrigerator).
  • Before serving, whip some heavy cream and spread or pipe it over the soaked cake. Garnish with fresh berries and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon if desired.

Notes

For best results, soak the cake overnight in the refrigerator.
Keyword cake, dessert, tres leches

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