Tres Leches Cake
also known as "Pastel de Tres Leches," is a beloved dessert that originates from Latin American cuisine, particularly in countries like Mexico and Central America. The name "Tres Leches" translates to "Three Milks," referring to the three types of milk used to create this moist and decadent cake. The cake is typically a sponge cake that is soaked in a mixture of condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream, resulting in a luscious and creamy texture.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- - 1 cup all-purpose flour
- - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- - 1/4 teaspoon salt
- - 5 large eggs, separated
- - 1 cup granulated sugar
- - 1/3 cup whole milk
- - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Three Milks Mixture:
- - 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- - 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
- - 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- - 1 cup heavy cream
- - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnish:
- - Ground cinnamon, berries, or caramel sauce
Instructions:
Making the Cake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with granulated sugar until pale and creamy.
4. Add the whole milk and vanilla extract to the egg yolk mixture and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated.
6. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
7. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter until no streaks remain.
8. Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Preparing the Three Milks Mixture:
10. In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream.
Soaking the Cake:
11. Once the cake is out of the oven and slightly cooled, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the cake's surface.
12. Gradually pour the three milks mixture over the cake, allowing it to be absorbed. It's normal for the cake to look quite soaked.
Whipped Cream Topping:
13. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Assembling and Serving:
14. Once the cake has soaked up the milk mixture and cooled completely, spread the whipped cream topping over the cake.
15. Optionally, garnish the cake with a dusting of ground cinnamon, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
16. Refrigerate the cake for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
17. Slice and serve your delicious Tres Leches Cake cold. The cake will be moist, creamy, and incredibly satisfying.
Tres Leches Cake is a wonderfully indulgent dessert that's sure to impress your guests. The combination of the moist cake, rich milk mixture, and airy whipped cream creates a delightful and memorable culinary experience.
