If you’re looking for a dessert that’s moist, creamy, and irresistible, look no further than Tres Leches Cake.
This traditional Latin American treat is a sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk, topped with fluffy whipped cream, and garnished with a hint of cinnamon or fresh strawberries.
Every bite is a melt-in-your-mouth experience, making it a perfect dessert for special occasions or just a sweet indulgence after a long day.
Ingredients List
For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 5 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- ⅓ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Three Milks:
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup whole milk
For the Whipped Topping:
- 1 pint heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar or powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes:
- Ground cinnamon
- Fresh strawberries
Required Kitchen Tools
To make the perfect Tres Leches Cake, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing the cake batter and combining the milks.
- Hand or Stand Mixer: Whipping the cream to soft, fluffy peaks becomes a breeze.
- 9×13-Inch Baking Dish: The ideal size for baking and soaking the cake.
- Fork or Skewer: For poking holes in the cake to ensure it soaks up all the delicious milk mixture.
- Rubber Spatula: Helps fold ingredients gently without deflating the batter.
Ready to dive into this creamy adventure? Let’s start with preparing the cake batter.
Cake Preparation
Mixing the Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your baking dish. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt, whisking to distribute evenly. In a separate large bowl, beat the egg yolks with ¾ cup of sugar until they’re pale and creamy, about 2 minutes. Mix in the vanilla extract and whole milk. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, ensuring there are no lumps.
In another bowl, whip the egg whites until soft peaks form, then gradually add the remaining ¼ cup of sugar. Continue beating until stiff peaks hold. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate the airy mixture.
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooling and Prepping for Soaking
Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the surface. This step is crucial for the cake to absorb the milk mixture.
Preparing the Three-Milk Soak
Now that your cake is cool and filled with tiny holes, it’s time to create the star of the show—the luscious three-milk soak. This mixture transforms your simple sponge cake into the irresistibly moist Tres Leches Cake we all adore.
Mixing the Three Milks
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk until well combined. The combination of these three milks creates a rich, creamy liquid that’s perfectly balanced in sweetness.
Soaking the Cake
Slowly and evenly pour the milk mixture over the cake. Start from the edges and work your way to the center to ensure the liquid is distributed evenly. The holes you poked earlier will allow the cake to absorb the milk mixture, turning it into a deliciously moist dessert.
Tip: Don’t rush this process. Allow the cake to sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to soak up all the milk. For best results, let it chill overnight to enhance the flavor and texture.
Preparing the Whipped Topping and Decorating
Now that your cake has soaked up the creamy three-milk mixture, it’s time to add the finishing touch: a fluffy, lightly sweetened whipped topping.
Making the Whipped Topping
In a chilled mixing bowl, pour the heavy whipping cream and begin beating it with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed. As the cream starts to thicken, gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract. Increase the speed to high and continue whipping until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can cause the cream to separate.
Spreading the Whipped Topping
Once the whipped topping is ready, gently spread it over the surface of the cake with a spatula, creating an even layer of creamy goodness. You can keep the topping smooth for a classic look or add swirls and peaks for a decorative flair.
Garnishing the Cake
Add your choice of garnishes to enhance the presentation and flavor. A light dusting of ground cinnamon gives the cake a warm, inviting aroma, while fresh strawberries add a pop of color and sweetness. You can also get creative with other fruits like raspberries or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Serving and Storage Tips
Your Tres Leches Cake is now ready to impress! Let’s make the most of this delectable dessert by serving it just right and keeping any leftovers fresh.
Serving the Cake
Slice the cake into squares and carefully transfer each piece to a dessert plate. The cake is rich and moist, so use a spatula for clean slices. For a festive presentation, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream, a fresh strawberry, or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor—the cool, creamy layers are irresistible!
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing glass of milk. It’s perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a show-stopping dessert.
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the slices to an airtight container. Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake will stay moist and flavorful, thanks to the milk soak.
Avoid freezing Tres Leches Cake, as the milk mixture doesn’t freeze well and can affect the cake’s texture when thawed.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations—you’ve just made a Tres Leches Cake that’s sure to be the star of any dessert table! Its creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor make it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re indulging solo or sharing with loved ones, this cake promises to be a memorable treat.
