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Tres Leches Cake Recipe

Delight in the rich and moist Tres Leches Cake! This classic Latin American dessert is soaked in three types of milk, topped with whipped cream, and perfect for any occasion.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

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 divided
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Milk Mixture:
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • For the Topping:
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Cake:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan. In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Make the Batter:
  • Beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of sugar on high speed until pale and fluffy. Mix in the milk and vanilla extract.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
  • Gently fold the flour mixture into the yolk mixture, then fold in the egg whites. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
  • Bake the Cake:
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan.
  • Prepare the Milk Mixture:
  • In a bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream.
  • Soak the Cake:
  • Once the cake is cool, poke holes all over the surface with a fork. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to absorb completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  • Make the Whipped Cream Topping:
  • Beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  • Assemble the Cake:
  • Spread the whipped cream evenly over the soaked cake.
  • Serve:
  • Slice and serve chilled. Optionally, garnish with fresh fruit, cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel.