Flavors Worth Savoring
Authentic Tres Leches Cake (Milk Cake)
Course: DessertCuisine: SpanishDifficulty: MediumServings
8
servingsPrep time
20
minutesCooking time
30
minutesCalories
350
kcalChilling time
2 to 4
HourDescription of Recipe:
This Authentic Tres Leches Cake Recipe is a moist, rich, and flavorful dessert that’s soaked in a blend of three different milks: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. The sponge cake absorbs the milk mixture, resulting in a dessert that’s incredibly soft and creamy with every bite. Topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, this classic Latin dessert is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests.
The Tres Leches Cake is a traditional Latin American dessert with origins in Mexico and Central America. The name “Tres Leches” translates to “three milks,” referring to the combination of three different types of milk used to soak the cake, giving it its signature moist and creamy texture. Although not Mediterranean, its popularity has spread worldwide, and variations can be found in Mediterranean countries, often incorporating regional flavors.
Diet Compatibility:
Vegetarian Diet: Suitable as it contains no meat or fish.
Mediterranean Diet (with modifications): Use olive oil and reduce sugar.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour.
DASH Diet (with modifications): Reduce sugar and use low-fat dairy products.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for GF option)
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
5 large eggs, separated
1 cup granulated sugar, divided
1/3 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extractFor the Milk Mixture:
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup heavy creamFor the Topping:
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
3 tbsp powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Prepare the Cake Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until combined.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the egg whites into the cake batter until no white streaks remain. - Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool for about 30 minutes. - Soak the Cake:
In a bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream.
Poke holes all over the top of the cooled cake using a fork. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, ensuring it absorbs the liquid. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. - Make the Whipped Cream Topping:
In a bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. - Frost the Cake:
Spread the whipped cream over the top of the cake and sprinkle with ground cinnamon.
- How to Serve:
Serve chilled, cut into squares, and topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cherry.
Pair with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of milk for the perfect treat.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Remarks, Tips, and Ideas:
Tip: Make the cake a day in advance to allow the milk mixture to soak in fully, resulting in an even more flavorful dessert.
Idea: Add a splash of rum or coconut milk to the milk mixture for a unique twist.
Variation: Top with fresh fruit like strawberries, peaches, or berries for added freshness and color. - This Authentic Tres Leches Cake Recipe is a moist, sweet, and creamy dessert that’s perfect for any celebration or gathering. With its rich flavor and light, airy texture, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser. Easily adaptable to various dietary preferences, including Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Mediterranean, and DASH diets, it’s a versatile and delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to indulge in a slice of deliciousness, this tres leches cake is sure to be a hit!
