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Homemade Tres Leches Cake photo

Tres Leches Cake

This Tres Leches Cake is a must-try! Soaked in three types of milk, it's rich, moist, and perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or substitute 1:1 gluten-free flour)
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 cup sugar divided into 3/4 and 1/4 cups
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.33 cup whole milk
  • 12 ounces evaporated milk
  • 9 ounces sweetened condensed milk
  • 0.33 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 cup berries to garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Electric mixer
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well blended.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the eggs until they become thick and pale, about 5 minutes. Gradually add in 3/4 cup of the sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan.
  6. In a medium bowl, combine the whole milk, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy whipping cream. Mix until smooth.
  7. Once the cake has cooled, poke holes all over the surface with a fork. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
  8. In a large bowl, whip 2 cups of heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the soaked cake.
  9. Top the cake with fresh berries, if desired, and enjoy your homemade Tres Leches Cake!

Notes

  • For a lighter cake, separate the egg yolks and whites. Beat the whites until stiff peaks form, and fold them into the batter for an airy texture.
  • Let the cake sit overnight after soaking for the best flavor and texture.
  • Use a serrated knife to cut the cake to maintain its structure.
  • If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk.