Homemade Tres Leches Cake Recipe

Homemade Tres Leches Cake Recipe

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This recipe will guide you through making a delicious and moist Tres Leches cake. Tres Leches translates to “three milks” in Spanish, referring to the unique soaking mixture of evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream that gives this cake its signature flavor and texture.  

Ingredients:

  • For the Cake:
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour  
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder  
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 2 large eggs  
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1/2 cup milk
  • For the Tres Leches Mixture:
    • 1 (14 ounce) can evaporated milk
    • 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk  
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cake:
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.  
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
    • In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.  
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.  
    • Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.  
  2. Make the Tres Leches Mixture:
    • While the cake is cooling, whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract in a bowl.
  3. Soak the Cake:
    • Once the cake is completely cool, poke holes all over the top using a fork.
    • Slowly pour the Tres Leches mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in completely. This may take some time.
    • Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Serve:
    • Before serving, top the cake with whipped cream, fresh berries, or shaved chocolate.
    • Cut into squares and enjoy!

Tips:

  • For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of rum or brandy to the Tres Leches mixture.
  • To make a lighter version, use light evaporated milk and light cream.
  • You can also bake this cake in a bundt pan for a more elegant presentation.

Enjoy your homemade Tres Leches cake!

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