Tres Leches Cake

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Quick Benefits

• Ultra Moist & Creamy: Soaked in three types of milk, this cake offers unmatched richness and tenderness.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping the day before parties or gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A Latin American favorite that always earns rave reviews.
• Versatile Toppings: Pairs beautifully with fruit, cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel.

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Essential Ingredients

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
• Cake Base:
  • 5 large eggs, separated
  • 1 cup white sugar, divided
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk
• Milk Soak (Tres Leches):
  • 2/3 cup whole milk
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
• Whipped Topping:
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Preparation Steps

1. Preheat & Prep Pan:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch cake pan.
2. Dry Mix:
   In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Yolk Mixture:
   Beat egg yolks with 3/4 cup sugar until fluffy. Stir in vanilla and milk.
4. Combine Batter:
   Gradually mix dry ingredients into the yolk mixture until smooth.
5. Whip Egg Whites:
   In another bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. Add remaining 1/4 cup sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
6. Fold Gently:
   Carefully fold egg whites into the batter until well combined.
7. Bake:
   Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Soak the Cake:
   Cool the cake. Poke holes with a fork and slowly pour in the three-milk mixture.
9. Chill:
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
10. Make the Whipped Topping:
    Beat cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
11. Frost & Serve:
    Spread whipped cream on top and garnish with cinnamon or fruit.

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Health Benefits

• Calcium-Rich: Thanks to the multiple dairy ingredients.
• High Protein: Eggs and milk offer a solid protein punch.
• Mood Booster: Sweet, creamy desserts can elevate your mood—especially when shared.

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Serving Suggestions

• Classic Style: Serve chilled with a dusting of cinnamon.
• Fruit Topped: Add sliced strawberries, kiwi, or raspberries for freshness.
• Drizzle Love: For extra indulgence, drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce.
• Pairing Drink: Best served with black coffee, café con leche, or hot tea.

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Creative Variations

• Coconut Twist: Add 1/2 tsp coconut extract to the milk soak and top with toasted coconut.
• Chocolate Tres Leches: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and top with chocolate shavings.
• Nutty Delight: Sprinkle crushed pistachios or pecans over the whipped cream.

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Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Keep the cake covered in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.
• Freezing Not Recommended: Due to the moisture, freezing may alter the texture.
• Make Ahead: Best flavor develops overnight—perfect to prepare the day before.

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Pro Tips

• Always cool the cake completely before pouring the milk mixture.
• Use a fork to poke lots of small holes so the cake absorbs the liquid evenly.
• Beat the whipped cream just until soft peaks form—don’t overwhip!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a boxed cake mix?
A: Yes, a yellow or white cake mix works in a pinch, but homemade gives the best flavor and texture.

Q: Can I make this cake without eggs?
A: It’s possible with egg substitutes, but the texture may differ. Try using aquafaba for whipping as an egg white alternative.

Q: Can I reduce the sweetness?
A: Yes! You can slightly reduce the sugar in the batter or use less sweetened condensed milk in the soak.

Q: What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
A: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – based on 12 servings)

• Calories: ~370
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 20g
• Sugar: 32g
• Calcium: 180mg

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