Indulge in the lusciousness of Tres Leches Cake, a classic Latin American dessert renowned for its moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture. This recipe features a light and airy sponge cake soaked in a trio of milks – evaporated milk, condensed milk, and whole milk – creating an incredibly rich and flavorful experience....

Tres Leches Cake recipe
Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
15min
Total Time
35min

Ingredients

8 Servings
(1 serving = One slice of cake)

Cake

  • all purpose flour
    all purpose flour
    1cup
  • baking powder
    baking powder
    1 1/2tsp
  • salt
    salt
    1/4tsp
  • large eggs
    large eggs
    5
  • sugar
    sugar
    1cup
  • vanilla extract
    vanilla extract
    1tsp

Cake Syrup Filling (Milk Mixture)

  • evaporated milk
    evaporated milk
    1cup
  • condensed milk
    condensed milk
    1/2cup
  • whole milk
    whole milk
    2cup

Frosting

  • whipping cream powder
    whipping cream powder
    1cup
  • cold milk
    cold milk
    1/2cup

How to make Tres Leches Cake

Cake Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl. Set aside.

  2. Step 2

    In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.

  3. Step 3

    Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture until just combined.

  4. Step 4

    Pour the batter into a greased and floured baking pan.

  5. Step 5

    Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Milk Mixture

  1. Step 1

    In a bowl, combine the evaporated milk, condensed milk, and whole milk. Mix well.

Whipped Cream Frosting

  1. Step 1

    In a bowl, pour the whipping cream powder and cold milk. Mix until stiff peaks form.

Assembly

  1. Step 1

    Once the cake is done, let it cool for 5 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Use a fork to poke holes all over the cake. This allows the milk mixture to soak in.

  3. Step 3

    Pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake.

  4. Step 4

    Spread the whipped cream frosting evenly over the top of the cake.

  5. Step 5

    Decorate with strawberries, chocolate syrup, cinnamon sugar, or any other desired toppings.

  6. Step 6

    Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

436.2kcal (21.81%)

Protein

12.1g (24.16%)

Carbs

52.6g (19.11%)

Sugars

36.5g (72.94%)

Healthy Fat

5.4g

Unhealthy Fat

14.6g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For best results, refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the milk mixture to fully absorb.

  2. You can adjust the sweetness of the milk mixture by using more or less condensed milk.

  3. Be careful not to overbake the cake, as it will become dry. It should be moist and springy to the touch.

  4. Ensure the whipped cream is stiff enough to hold its shape when frosting the cake.

FAQS

  1. Can I use a different type of milk for the milk mixture?

    While whole milk, evaporated milk, and condensed milk are traditional, you can experiment with other milks such as almond milk or coconut milk for a different flavor profile. Note that this may alter the taste and texture.

  2. How long can I store Tres Leches cake?

    Tres Leches cake should be stored in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Because of its moist nature, it is best consumed sooner rather than later.

  3. Can I freeze Tres Leches cake?

    Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the cake and frosting, making it soggy upon thawing.

  4. What if I don't have whipping cream powder?

    You can use heavy cream instead of whipping cream powder. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, adding a bit of powdered sugar for sweetness if desired.

  5. Can I add alcohol to the milk mixture?

    Yes, a splash of rum or brandy can be added to the milk mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Be mindful of the quantity to maintain the desired balance.

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Maryam Auwal

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A Foodie and Med Student Recipe Blogger Creating and sharing new recipes....

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