Cuisine : Tres Leches Cake - How to make this delicious Latin American item

 

Tres leches cake is a popular Latin American dessert known for its rich and moist texture. The name "Tres leches" translates to "three milks" in Spanish, referring to the three types of milk used to soak the cake. Here's a simplified preparation:

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 4 large eggs, room temperature

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Three Milks Mixture:

- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk

- 1 cup whole milk

For the Topping:

- 2 cups whipped cream

- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. In another bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This can take about 3-5 minutes.

4. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.

6. Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. While the cake is baking, combine the three milks (sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk) in a separate bowl.

9. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 10 minutes.

10. Using a fork or toothpick, poke holes all over the warm cake.

11. Pour the three milks mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2-3 hours or until it's well-chilled.

12. Before serving, prepare the topping by whipping the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

13. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled cake.

14. You can garnish the cake with fresh fruit, grated chocolate, or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Tres leches cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of the milks with the lightness of the cake, making it a favorite treat in many Latin American cuisines. Enjoy!