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The Best Tres Leches Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 45 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (including 1 hour chilling)
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This classic Tres Leches Cake is a moist and rich dessert soaked in a blend of three milks and topped with fluffy whipped cream. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and texture, this cake is an irresistible treat for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients for Cake Batter

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk

Milk Soaking Mixture

  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk

Whipped Cream Topping

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract


Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk alternately to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to keep the batter light.
  6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.
  7. Prepare Milk Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk until smooth and combined.
  8. Soak the Cake: Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the cooled cake. Pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor and texture.
  9. Make Whipped Cream Topping: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, ensuring a light and fluffy topping.
  10. Decorate and Serve: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the soaked cake and garnish as desired, such as with fresh fruit or cinnamon. Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert experience.

Notes

  • For the best results, soak the cake overnight to allow the milk mixture to fully absorb, resulting in a more moist texture.
  • You can garnish the cake with cinnamon powder, fresh berries, or sliced fruits for added flavor and presentation.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing and better texture.
  • Make sure to poke enough holes in the cake so the milk mixture can soak through adequately.