Tres Leches Cake – Mexican Three Milk Cake Recipe
Tres Leches Cake is a rich and moist Mexican dessert that combines the delicate sweetness of a traditional sponge cake with the indulgent creaminess of a three-milk custard. This decadent dessert has become a favorite in many homes and is the perfect treat for those who enjoy a sweet, milky finish to their meal. Traditionally served as a celebration cake, its light yet rich texture offers a unique balance of flavors that are sure to impress.
Ingredients for Tres Leches Cake
| Ingredients for the Cake | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Caster Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Whole Eggs | 2 |
| Oil | 1/3 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Ingredients for the Leches (Milk Soak) | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk (Evaporated or Whole Milk) | 400 ml |
| Condensed Milk | 400 ml |
| Fresh Cream | 500 ml |
| Ingredients for the Topping | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Double Cream | 2 cups |
| Icing Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 8-10
Instructions for Preparing Tres Leches Cake
Step 1: Make the Cake Base
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for the cake batter.
- In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the caster sugar and whole eggs until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Slowly add the oil and vanilla extract into the egg-sugar mixture while continuing to whisk.
- Gradually add the sifted flour mixture, alternating with the milk, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly using a spatula.
- Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Leches (Milk Soak)
- In a large bowl, combine the milk, condensed milk, and fresh cream. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and well blended. This mixture forms the base for soaking the cake.
- Once the cake has cooled, prick it all over with a fork or skewer to create holes. This will allow the milk mixture to seep into the cake, making it wonderfully moist.
- Slowly pour the three-milk mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring the entire surface is covered. The cake will absorb the milk mixture, so allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes for the liquids to soak in.
Step 3: Make the Topping
- In a chilled bowl, whisk the double cream, icing sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. This will create a smooth and light topping for the cake.
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the soaked cake, covering it completely. For a decorative touch, you can pipe the whipped cream around the edges or in the center.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2-3 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up slightly.
- Before serving, cut the cake into squares and garnish with fresh fruit, such as berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Tres Leches Cake:
- Use full-fat milk and fresh cream for the best flavor and texture.
- To achieve the best results, let the cake rest in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight to allow the milk mixture to fully absorb.
- You can adjust the sweetness of the topping by adding more or less icing sugar based on your preference.
- For added flavor, try incorporating a splash of rum or coconut extract into the milk mixture for a tropical twist.
This Tres Leches Cake is not only a delight to eat but a beautiful dessert to serve on any occasion. Its moist, milky texture and creamy topping make it a memorable treat that will impress family and guests alike.
