Pastel de Tres Leches: A Classic Three Milk Cake

Quick Benefits

Pastel de Tres Leches is a rich and moist sponge cake soaked in a blend of three kinds of milk: sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. This beloved Latin American dessert is light, airy, and perfectly sweet, topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and ideal for celebrations!

Essential Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 6 medium eggs, separated
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Tres Leches Mixture:

• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (optional)

For Serving:

• 1 cup whipped cream (optional)
• 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries (optional)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 10×15-inch baking dish.
• In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites on high speed until stiff peaks form.
• Gradually beat in sugar until glossy.
• Beat in egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Reduce speed to medium and mix in flour (one tablespoon at a time).
• Add milk, baking powder, and vanilla, and mix until smooth.

2. Bake the Cake

• Pour batter into the prepared baking dish.
• Bake for 25 minutes, or until lightly browned on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Remove from the oven and let cool for 15 minutes.

3. Prepare the Tres Leches Mixture

• In a blender, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream.
• Pulse several times until well blended.

4. Soak the Cake

• Pour the tres leches mixture evenly over the warm cake.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until fully absorbed and chilled.

5. Serve and Garnish

• Cut chilled cake into 12 squares.
• Top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries, if desired.

Health Benefits

• High in Calcium: Provides 283mg of calcium per serving for bone health.
• Rich in Protein: Each serving contains 10g of protein.
• Source of Healthy Fats: Heavy cream contributes healthy saturated fats.
• Antioxidant Boost: Fresh strawberries add Vitamin C and antioxidants.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Fruit: Serve with mango slices, raspberries, or blueberries.
• With a Cinnamon Dusting: Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon for added warmth.
• With Toasted Coconut: Add toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
• With a Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with dulce de leche for extra indulgence.

Creative Variations

• Chocolate Tres Leches Cake: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolaty version.
• Coffee-Infused: Substitute ¼ cup of milk with brewed espresso for a subtle coffee flavor.
• Coconut Tres Leches: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and top with shredded coconut.
• Spiced Tres Leches: Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for warmth.
• Alcohol-Infused: Mix 2 tablespoons of rum or Kahlua into the tres leches mixture.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual slices without toppings for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Enjoy chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Pro Tips

• Let It Soak: For the best texture, let the cake sit overnight in the fridge.
• Use Fresh Eggs: Fresh eggs help achieve a light and airy sponge cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Fold the flour in gently to maintain fluffiness.
• Chill Before Serving: Chilling enhances the flavor and prevents sogginess.
• Strawberry Placement: Add strawberries just before serving to keep them fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make tres leches cake ahead of time?

Yes! It’s best made a day ahead so the cake can fully absorb the milk mixture.

Why is my cake too soggy?

If it’s overly wet, reduce the amount of milk mixture or let it chill longer before serving.

Can I use a different cake base?

Yes! You can make this with a butter cake or even a vanilla sponge cake.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut milk, almond milk, and oat milk in place of the traditional three milks.

What’s the best way to slice tres leches cake?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to get clean, smooth slices.

This Pastel de Tres Leches is an incredibly moist, flavorful, and indulgent cake perfect for special occasions or simply enjoying a sweet treat. Whether topped with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

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