Description
This Tres Leches Cake is a classic Latin American dessert that’s moist, rich, and soaked in a luscious blend of three milks. Topped with a light and fluffy whipped cream, this cake is perfect for celebrations, holidays, or when you’re in the mood for an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the cake:
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 5 large eggs, separated
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, divided
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the milk soak:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
For the whipped cream topping:
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, chilled
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional garnish:
- Ground cinnamon
- Fresh fruit (strawberries, berries, or mango slices)
Instructions
1. Prepare the cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks and 3/4 cup (150 g) of the sugar on high speed until the mixture is pale and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
- Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg yolk mixture until combined.
- In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites on high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup (50 g) of sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter in three additions, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
2. Prepare the milk soak
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream.
- Once the cake has cooled, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, ensuring it soaks into every corner.
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the milk to fully absorb.
3. Make the whipped cream topping
- In a large bowl, beat the chilled heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the soaked cake.
4. Garnish and serve
- Dust the top of the whipped cream with ground cinnamon or garnish with fresh fruit. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- Make ahead: Tres Leches Cake tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together.
- Storage: Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Variations: Add a tablespoon of rum or coffee liqueur to the milk soak for a flavor twist.