Tres Leches Cake – Mexican Dessert Recipe

Tres Leches Cake – Mexican Dessert Recipe

Tres Leches Cake is a delightful and healthy twist on a classic comfort food that brings joy to every bite. This rich dessert combines all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream to create a luscious treat. With its low-carb and high-protein elements, you can indulge without the guilt. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, this cake’s creamy texture and sweet flavor will brighten any occasion.

Tres Leches Cake. As I gathered the ingredients, an air of excitement filled the kitchen. To my surprise, the healthier version turned out incredibly satisfying, bursting with flavor that complemented every layer. The versatility of toppings—like fresh fruits or a sprinkle of cinnamon—offers endless customization. I warmly invite you to try this exquisite dessert, perfect for health-conscious foodies seeking flavor without compromise.

Print

Ingredients: Tres Leches Cake – Mexican Dessert Recipe

• 6 large eggs, separated
• 1 ½ cups (200 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, divided
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 pinch of salt
• ½ cup (120 ml) full-fat milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 can (14 oz/400 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 can (12 oz/340 g) evaporated milk
• 2 teaspoons rum or brandy (optional)
• 1 ¼ cups (300 ml) whipping cream, for topping
• 3 tablespoons (40 g) powdered sugar, for topping
• Cinnamon, for sprinkling

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 servings

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve meticulously gathered all your ingredients and tools, it’s time to embark on an exciting culinary adventure. Transform simple components into the indulgent and moist Tres Leches Cake. Each step is crafted to guide you in creating a dessert that’s bursting with flavor and will leave everyone longing for more.

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Cake Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). This temperature creates the perfect environment for baking a cake that’s fluffy and tender. While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will ensure that your Tres Leches Cake slides out easily once baked, giving you a picture-perfect presentation.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This crucial step ensures that your cake will rise beautifully, providing that light and airy texture that’s characteristic of the perfect Tres Leches Cake. Set this mixture aside and get ready for some serious mixing.

Step 3: Whip Eggs and Sugar

In a large bowl, crack open your eggs and add the sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on high speed until it’s pale and fluffy. This usually takes about 5 minutes. The goal here is to incorporate air, which will make your cake light-as-a-feather. You’ll know you’re ready when the batter forms ribbon-like trails that gently fall back when you lift the beaters.

Step 4: Add Ingredients Slowly

Now, gently fold in the dry ingredient mixture from earlier, alternating with the milk. Pouring the milk in gradually ensures that everything incorporates smoothly without deflating your whipped eggs. Mix until just combined, keeping that light texture intact. The batter will be slightly lumpy—that’s perfectly fine!

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and evenly distribute it. Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with a delightful aroma, giving you a taste of the sweet magic to come with your Tres Leches Cake.

Step 6: Prepare the Milk Mixture

While your cake is baking, it’s time to create the luxurious soaking mixture that truly brings the Tres Leches Cake to life! In a bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk. This rich concoction is what makes the cake moist and decadent. Set it aside, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Soak the Cake

Once the cake is out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly. While it’s still warm, poke holes all over the surface with a fork to help the milk mixture absorb into the cake. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the top, letting it soak in completely. Don’t rush this; you want Every bite of your Tres Leches Cake to be infused with flavor.

Step 8: Refrigerate and Whip Cream

Cover the cake and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait that long! This chilling time is essential for allowing the flavors to develop fully. When you’re ready to serve, whip heavy cream with sugar until soft peaks form. This light and fluffy topping will balance the richness of the cake.

Step 9: Top and Serve

Once the cream is ready, spread it generously over the top of the chilled cake. You can even put it into a piping bag to create swirls and patterns—get creative! Finish off with a sprinkle of cinnamon or some fresh fruit if you desire. Each slice of your Tres Leches Cake should look as good as it tastes!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Notes on Baking

– Always wait for the cake to cool before soaking it with the milk mixture. This prevents it from becoming overly soggy.
– Keep the Tres Leches Cake refrigerated until it’s time to serve to maintain its delightful chill and freshness.

Notes on Presentation

– For an especially festive touch, garnish with seasonal fruits or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
– Consider dusting with cocoa powder or nutmeg for an elegant finish as you serve your Tres Leches Cake.

Why Everyone Loves Tres Leches Cake

The charm of Tres Leches Cake lies not just in its taste but in its story. Originating from Latin America, this cake has found its way into hearts and homes worldwide. Its unique texture and flavor profile make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, celebrating the sweetness of life.

Endless Variations of Tres Leches Cake

What’s truly delightful about Tres Leches Cake is how easily it lends itself to variations. Experiment with different flavors—add a splash of vanilla or a hint of coconut to the milk mixture for an exotic twist. Each alteration makes the dessert uniquely yours while keeping the beloved essence intact.

Fun Serving Ideas for Tres Leches Cake

Serving a Tres Leches Cake can be just as fun as making it! Pair each slice with fresh berries, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the dessert. Incorporating a warm drink, like spiced tea or coffee, complements the cake beautifully, creating an experience that guests will remember.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Tres Leches Cake, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients to preserve the fluffiness. Another common mistake is neglecting to poke enough holes in the cake—this allows the milk mixture to fully soak in. Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy the process; cooking is meant to be fun and leisurely!

FAQ:

People Also Ask: