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Dorothy Thomas

Tres Leches Cake Recipe

A light and airy sponge cake soaked in a sweet trio of milks (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream), topped with whipped cream and fresh berries. This classic Latin American dessert is irresistibly moist and delicious!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 12
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Latin American, Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 5 large eggs, separated
  • 1 cup (200g)  granulated sugar, divided
  • ⅓ cup (80ml)  whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Three-Milk Soak:
  • 12 oz/354ml 1 can evaporated milk
  • 14 oz/396g 1 can sweetened condensed milk
  • 120ml ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
For the Topping:
  • 360ml 1 ½ cups heavy cream, chilled
  • 3 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp  vanilla extract
  • Fresh strawberries or cinnamon (for garnish)

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • Electric mixer
  • mixing bowls, whisk

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat egg yolks + ¾ cup sugar until pale. Mix in milk and vanilla.
  4. Gently fold in the dry ingredients.
  5. In another bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining ¼ cup sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
  6. Fold egg whites into the batter until just combined. Pour into the pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool.
  7. Whisk together evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream.
  8. Poke holes all over the cake with a fork or skewer. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, letting it absorb.
  9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight).
  10. Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
  11. Spread over the cake and garnish with berries or cinnamon.

Notes

  • For a lighter cake, use only the egg whites (no yolks).
  • Drain excess milk if the cake seems too soggy.
  • Make ahead: The cake tastes better the next day!
  • Variation: Add a splash of rum or cinnamon to the milk mixture.