Authentic Tres Leches Cake
If you’ve never experienced the magic of an Authentic Tres Leches Cake, prepare to have your culinary world turned upside down. This moist, airy cake soaked in a trio of milks is a beloved dessert in many Latin American countries, known for its rich flavor and delightful texture. Perfectly sweet, with a hint of vanilla, it’s the kind of dessert that evokes warm memories and joy. Today, I’m sharing my family recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
Why It’s My Go-To
Authentic Tres Leches Cake is my go-to dessert for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, yet it always impresses guests. The combination of textures—light and fluffy cake with a creamy milk soak—is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve it plain, topped with whipped cream, or dressed up with fresh fruits. Every bite is a celebration, making it the perfect dessert for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat after dinner.
Ingredient List
To create this delicious Authentic Tres Leches Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups cake flour, plus extra to dust the pan
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 ounces unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup whole milk
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- Fresh fruits for garnish (optional)
Prep & Cook Tools
Make sure you have the following tools on hand to whip up this cake:
- 9×13 inch baking pan – This is perfect for baking and serving.
- Mixing bowls – You’ll need a couple for mixing the batter and the milk soak.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer – For easy mixing of the batter.
- Rubber spatula – Great for folding in ingredients and scraping the sides of the bowls.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key in baking!
- Wire rack – To cool the cake properly.
How to Prepare Authentic Tres Leches Cake
Follow these easy steps to create your very own Authentic Tres Leches Cake:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with butter and dust it lightly with cake flour to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of cake flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Set this mixture aside.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use your mixer to cream 4 ounces of softened butter and 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add 5 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to remain light and airy.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 8: Prepare the Milk Soak
While the cake is cooling, mix together 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1 cup of evaporated milk, and 1 cup of whole milk in a separate bowl.
Step 9: Soak the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, poke holes all over the top using a fork or toothpick. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to absorb all that deliciousness.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Top with whipped cream and fresh fruits if desired. Slice and serve your Authentic Tres Leches Cake chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy every bite!
Substitutions by Category
If you’re looking for alternatives to customize your cake, consider these substitutions:
- Flour: You can use all-purpose flour if cake flour is unavailable, but the texture may be denser.
- Butter: Margarine can be used instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
- Sugar: Coconut sugar or a sugar substitute may work for a healthier option, but sweetness may vary.
- Milk: Almond milk or coconut milk can be used in place of whole milk for a dairy-free version.
Behind the Recipe
This Authentic Tres Leches Cake recipe holds a special place in my heart. It originates from my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would whip it up for family gatherings, birthdays, and celebrations. The name “Tres Leches” translates to “three milks,” which refers to the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk that bring this cake to life. Each layer of flavor tells a story, reminding me of the importance of family and tradition. It’s a recipe that brings people together, often shared over laughter and good conversation.
Storage Pro Tips
To keep your Authentic Tres Leches Cake fresh and delicious, consider these storage tips:
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it moist.
- It can last for up to 4-5 days in the fridge, though I doubt it will last that long!
- If you want to freeze it, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Thaw the cake in the refrigerator before serving to maintain its moist texture.
Common Questions
Can I make Tres Leches Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s often better when made a day in advance, as the flavors can meld together beautifully. Just remember to store it properly in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of whole milk in the milk soak?
You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or even oat milk, depending on your dietary preferences. Just ensure that the milk you choose is sweetened if you want to maintain the cake’s sweetness.
Is Tres Leches Cake gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free as it contains cake flour. However, you can substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free version.
Can I add flavors to my Tres Leches Cake?
Definitely! You can infuse flavors such as cinnamon, cocoa powder, or lime zest into the milk soak to give it an exciting twist. Just be mindful of how these flavors may alter the original taste.
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have all the tools, tips, and ingredients at your disposal, it’s time to dive into making your very own Authentic Tres Leches Cake. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, and it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking! Enjoy the process and savor the delightful moments that come with sharing this incredible cake. You won’t regret it!
Authentic Tres Leches Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease your 9x13 inch baking pan with butter and dust it lightly with cake flour.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the cake cools, mix together sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk in a bowl.
- Once the cake has cooled, poke holes in the top and pour the milk mixture over it. Let it soak for about 30 minutes.
- Top with whipped cream and fresh fruits if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it moist.
- It can last for up to 4-5 days in the fridge.
- If freezing, wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
