tres leches easy recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best tres leches easy recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite tres leches easy recipe, a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Tres leches cake is a classic Latin American dessert that originated in Central America, specifically in countries like Costa Rica and Guatemala.

The name ‘tres leches’ literally translates to ‘three milks,’ which refers to the three types of milk used in the recipe: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. When you take a bite of this moist and creamy cake, the three milks blend together to create a rich and velvety texture that’s simply divine.

I love making this recipe for my family because it’s incredibly easy to prepare, and everyone always asks for seconds. The best part is that it’s a great way to use up leftover cake or cupcakes, making it an excellent option for potlucks or parties.

Plus, the tres leches cake is a great way to get your daily dose of calcium and protein from the milk. My kids love helping me pour the three milks over the cake, and they always get excited when they see how quickly it transforms into a decadent treat.

This recipe is perfect for any gathering or special occasion because it’s sure to impress your guests with its simplicity and deliciousness. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just need a sweet treat after dinner, this tres leches easy recipe is sure to hit the spot.

Tres Leches Cake

4.7 from 855 votes

A light and airy sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk for a rich, creamy texture. This easy version uses simple ingredients and is perfect for a refreshing dessert.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

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 Milk Mixture

1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup whole milk

For the Topping

1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon, for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 350°F.
2Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Set aside.
4In a large bowl, beat egg whites with an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form.
5Gradually add 1/4 cup sugar, beating until stiff peaks form, about 3 minutes.
Set aside.
6In another large bowl, beat egg yolks and remaining 3/4 cup sugar on high speed until thick and pale yellow, about 2 minutes.
7Add milk and vanilla; beat until combined.
8Fold flour mixture into yolk mixture until just combined.
9Gently fold in egg whites until no white streaks remain.
10Pour batter into prepared dish and spread evenly.
11Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean and top is golden brown.
12Cool cake completely in dish on a wire rack, about 1 hour.
13Whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk in a bowl.
14Poke holes all over the cooled cake with a fork.
15Slowly pour milk mixture over cake, allowing it to soak in.
16Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
17For topping, beat heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3 minutes.
18Spread whipped cream over chilled cake.
19Sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish
Electric mixer
Large mixing bowls
Wire rack
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 16g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 115mg🧂Sodium: 200mg🌾Total Carbs: 52g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 40g🥩Protein: 9g

📝Notes

For best results, refrigerate the cake overnight to allow the milk mixture to fully absorb. You can substitute 1/2 cup of the whole milk with half-and-half for extra richness.

This tres leches easy recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or just a quick dessert after dinner. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.

I love serving this dessert at gatherings because it’s sure to impress your guests with its simplicity and deliciousness. You can store leftover tres leches cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate it for up to 5 days.

Reheat it by microwaving individual slices for 10-15 seconds or by warming it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tres Leches Cake

Q: What is tres leches cake?

Tres leches cake is a type of sponge cake that’s soaked in a mixture of three types of milk: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream.

Q: Where did tres leches cake originate?

Tres leches cake originated in Central America, specifically in countries like Costa Rica and Guatemala.

Q: What are the benefits of using tres leches cake?

The tres leches cake is not only delicious but also provides a good source of calcium and protein from the milk.

Q: Can I use other types of milk instead of evaporated milk?

You can substitute evaporated milk with other types of milk like almond milk or soy milk, but keep in mind that it may affect the flavor and texture of the cake.

Q: How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and can be ready in under 30 minutes.

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