A very light cake sponge is heavily drenched in a tres leches (three milk) mixture, covered with a thick layer of whipped cream, and adorned with fresh berries. The outcome is sublime: a cake with a flavor that is expertly balanced and simultaneously light and rich.
Tres Leches, or “three milks” cake, is a delicacy that tantalizes the taste buds and captures the imagination with its rich history and irresistible flavor.
What is Tres Leches (Milk cake)?
According to legend, the Tres Leches cake originated in Latin America, with Mexico, Nicaragua, and Guatemala vying for the title of birthplace. Whatever its exact beginnings, Tres Leches has become a popular dessert in the area, appearing on tables for holidays, get-togethers, and regular indulgences.
Recipe
The allure of Tres Leches lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its ingredients. To embark on the journey of creating this delectable treat, one must gather the following:
- For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 5 large eggs, separated
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 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 heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Tres Leches (Milk Cake)
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg yolk mixture, stirring until well combined.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Step 6: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter until just combined. Be careful not to deflate the mixture.
Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: While the cake is baking, prepare the three milks mixture by whisking together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk in a bowl.
Step 9: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
Step 10: Slowly pour the three milks mixture over the warm cake, allowing it to absorb the liquid.
Step 11: Cover the cake and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to become thoroughly chilled.
Step 12: Before serving, prepare the topping by whipping the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled cake.
Nutritional Benefits
While Tres Leches cake is undoubtedly a decadent indulgence, it also offers some nutritional benefits, albeit in moderation. The combination of milk provides a good source of calcium, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the eggs in the cake contribute protein and essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and selenium.
However, it’s important to enjoy Tres Leches cake in moderation due to its high sugar and calorie content. Pairing a small slice with fresh fruit or a cup of unsweetened tea can help balance out the sweetness and add some nutritional value to the indulgence.
In conclusion, Tres Leches cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of tradition, celebration, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. Whether enjoyed during a festive occasion or as a simple pleasure on a quiet afternoon, Tres Leches reminds us of the sweetness found in life’s simplest pleasures.
