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A delectable slice of Tres Leches cake with a pristine white topping.

Best way to grow Tres Leches Cake in 3 Steps

This recipe provides a simplified approach to making a classic Tres Leches Cake, focusing on key steps for a delicious and moist dessert.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
Milk Mixture
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
Whipped Cream Topping
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • electric mixer
  • fork

Method
 

Step 1: Bake the Cake
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
  2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
  3. Cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Alternate adding flour mixture and whole milk to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
  6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 2: Prepare and Apply Milk Mixture
  1. In a bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and 1/2 cup heavy cream.
  2. Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool for 10 minutes, then pierce the top all over with a fork.
  3. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the warm cake, ensuring it is evenly absorbed.
  4. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to soak thoroughly.
Step 3: Add Whipped Cream Topping
  1. In a chilled bowl, beat 2 cups heavy cream, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
  2. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake.
  3. Slice and serve chilled. Garnish with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Notes

For best results, prepare the cake the day before serving to allow ample time for the milk mixture to soak in. You can also vary the garnishes with fresh berries, a dusting of cinnamon, or cocoa powder.