February 1, 2025

Tres Leches Cake recipe

The Tres Leches Cake recipe, also known as Pastel de Tres Leches, is a classic Latin American dessert that has gained popularity worldwide for its moist, creamy, and indulgent texture.

What is The Tres Leches Cake recipe?

Tres leches cake is a popular Latin American dessert that translates to “three milks cake.” It’s a moist sponge cake made from a mixture of flour, sugar, and eggs, soaked in three types of milk – evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. The result is a sweet, creamy, and utterly decadent cake that’s a staple in many Latin American countries, particularly in Central and South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

The origin of the Tres Leches Cake recipe:

Tres Leches Cake recipe. Its origin is believed to be in Latin America, with several countries, including Mexico, Nicaragua, and Puerto Rico, claiming to have created it. The cake rose to popularity in the 20th century, particularly post-World War II, when the use of canned milk became widespread. The combination of soaked cake and sweet milk created a moist dessert that was both indulgent and celebratory.

what are the Ingredients for Tres Leches Cake recipe?

the cake:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

the tres leches mixture:

1 can evaporated milk
1 can sweetened condensed milk
2 cups whole milk

the frosting:

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to make Tres Leches Cake recipe:

Prepare the cake batter:

Preheat your oven to (180°C). Grease a baking dish with oil.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.

In another bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until combined. Add in the vanilla extract.

Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture until just combined, then add the milk and fold until smooth.

Bake the cake:

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the tres leches mixture:

In a bowl or jug, combine the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk (or heavy cream). Whisk until combined.

Soak the cake:

Once the cake has cooled, poke holes all over the top using a fork or a skewer. Slowly pour the tres leches mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Prepare the frosting:

In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Frost the cake:

Once the cake has soaked and is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Spread the whipped cream frosting over the top of the cake evenly.

Serve:

Optionally, garnish with fruit, cinnamon, caramel sauce, or chocolate shavings. Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your delicious Tres Leches Cake!

Pro Tips For Making Tres Leches Cake recipe:

To make a perfect Tres Leches Cake Recipe, follow these tips:

Use the Right Cake Base: Start with a light, fluffy sponge cake or a vanilla cake made with eggs. Avoid heavy cakes, as they won’t soak up the milk mixture well.
Bake Evenly: Bake your cake in a slightly larger pan than usual to ensure even cooking.
Cooling is Key: Allow your cake to cool completely in the pan to maintain its structure before soaking it. Once cooled, poke holes all over the cake using a toothpick or fork to help the milk mixture absorb better.
Soaking Time: Let the cake soak in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the cake is moist.
Whipped Topping: Use heavy whipping cream for the topping, and consider adding a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla for sweetness. Whip it until soft peaks form, and spread it evenly over the cake.
Presentation Tips: Garnish with canned or fresh fruit like strawberries or mango slices, or sprinkle some cinnamon on top for added flavor.
Chilling Before Serving: Serve the cake chilled; this enhances the flavors and texture, making it more refreshing and delicious.

frequently asked questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Tres Leches Cake Recipe along with detailed answers:

What are the three milks used in Tres Leches Cake Recipe?

Tres Leches Cake gets its name from the three types of milk used: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk or heavy cream. These milks create a moist and rich cake texture.

Do I need to refrigerate the Tres Leches Cake Recipe?

Yes, Tres Leches Cake should be refrigerated since it contains milk and cream. It’s best served chilled and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

How long should I let the cake soak in the milk mixture?

After baking the cake, allow it to cool completely. Poke holes in the cake with a fork, then slowly pour the milk mixture over it. Let the cake soak for at least 2 hours, but overnight is preferable for maximum moisture absorption.

Can I make Tres Leches Cake recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Tres Leches Cake can be made a day or two in advance. This improves the flavor as the cake has more time to soak in the milk mixture.

How can I prevent the cake from being soggy?

To achieve a perfect balance, ensure you let the cake cool before adding the milk mixture. Also, use the right amount of milk; avoid pouring too much at once to prevent oversaturation.

What toppings work best for Tres Leches Cake?

Traditional toppings include whipped cream and mixed fruit like strawberries, mangoes, or berries. You could also sprinkle cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra flavor.