Tres Leches
Indulge in the decadent world of Tres Leches, a traditional Latin American dessert that translates to “three milks.” This cake is soaked in a mixture of evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream, resulting in an incredibly moist and flavorful treat. Topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, Tres Leches is perfect for celebrations or a sweet ending to any meal. Dive into this delightful recipe and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!
Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ tsp baking powder
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 5 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Whipped cream for topping
– Fresh fruit for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 8-10 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of Tres Leches (based on 1 slice) contains roughly 300 calories, 15g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein. This is for one person and may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
4. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
6. Stir in vanilla extract.
7. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, combining until smooth.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
9. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Let the cake cool completely before soaking.
11. In a bowl, mix evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream.
12. Poke holes in the cooled cake using a fork.
13. Pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak.
14. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
15. Before serving, top with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute whole milk for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk in the milk mixture and a dairy-free whipped topping.
Serving and Pairings
Tres Leches pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. It can also be served alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Tres Leches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best served chilled and does not need reheating. Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not allowing the cake to cool completely before soaking.
- Poking too few holes in the cake, preventing proper soaking.
- Using non-dairy milk, which may alter the flavor.
- Skipping the refrigeration step, which enhances flavor.
- Overmixing the batter, resulting in a dense cake.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Allow the cake to soak overnight for maximum flavor.
- Experiment with different toppings like chocolate or caramel drizzle.
- For a fun twist, add a splash of rum to the milk mixture.
FAQs
What is Tres Leches?
Tres Leches is a traditional Latin American cake soaked in three types of milk—evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. It’s known for its rich, moist texture and sweet flavor.
Can I make Tres Leches in advance?
Yes, Tres Leches can be prepared a day in advance. In fact, it tastes better when refrigerated overnight, allowing the flavors to meld.
Is Tres Leches gluten-free?
Traditional Tres Leches contains all-purpose flour, making it not gluten-free. However, you can substitute with gluten-free flour for a suitable alternative.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoyed within three days for the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Tres Leches?
Freezing Tres Leches is not recommended, as it can change the texture of the cake once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Conclusion
Tres Leches is a delightful dessert that combines rich flavors and a unique texture, making it a favorite among many. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth. Try making it at home and enjoy a taste of Latin America!
Tres Leches
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 can 12 oz evaporated milk
- 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Whipped cream for topping
- Fresh fruit for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, combining until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before soaking.
- In a bowl, mix evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream.
- Poke holes in the cooled cake using a fork.
- Pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, top with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
