Tres Leches Cake

Tres Leches Cake has always sounded rather intimidating to me. A traditional Mexican recipe that calls for three different kinds of milk? I figured it must be pretty complicated to make. So you can imagine my surprise when I actually read through a Tres Leches recipe and discovered it’s really quite simple. Let me walk you through the process, and I think you’ll agree!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tres Leches Cake is a deliciously moist dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. With its light and airy texture soaked in a creamy milk mixture, it’s perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how the sweetness of the cake complements the rich, milky flavors. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your family and friends with a homemade treat that looks and tastes like it came from a fancy bakery.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Hand or stand mixer
• Small mixing bowl
• Fork
• Sifter
• Chilled bowl for whipping cream

Ingredients

• ½ cup butter, 1 stick
• 1 cup sugar
• 5 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 ½ cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups whole milk
• 12oz can evaporated milk
• 14oz can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 1/2 cups whipping cream
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the butter and sugar, beating until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla, and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. In a small bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Use a fork to pierce the top of the cake all over, then let it cool to room temperature.
6. In a large bowl, mix together the whole milk, evaporated milk, and condensed milk. Pour this milk mixture over the cooled cake, allowing it to absorb fully.
7. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, 1 cup of sugar, and vanilla until peaks form. Spread the whipped topping over the cake once all the milk has soaked in.
8. Sprinkle cinnamon on top if desired. Keep the cake refrigerated and serve chilled.

Tips for Success

Ensure the cake is fully cooled before pouring the milk mixture over it, as this allows for better absorption. For best results, whip the cream in a chilled bowl to achieve stiff peaks.

Additional Tips and Variations

If you’d like a bit of extra flavor, try adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter. You can also top the cake with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a unique twist.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This tasty treat is certainly indulgent, but worth every calorie for a special occasion. Each serving provides a rich and satisfying dose of dairy goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a cake mix instead of making the cake from scratch? Yes, a box mix for a vanilla or yellow cake can be used if you’re short on time.

How long does Tres Leches Cake last in the fridge? It can last for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, the cake tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.

Conclusion

Now that you know how simple it is to make this delightful Tres Leches Cake, I invite you to give it a try. It’s a wonderful way to bring a taste of Mexico into your kitchen. If you do make it, please share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!