Tres Leches Cake is a classic Latin American dessert that has become popular all around the world. The name “tres leches” translates to “three milks” in English, which refers to the three types of milk used in the recipe. This cake is known for its moist, tender crumb and rich, creamy topping, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
The origins of Tres Leches Cake are uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in Central America or Mexico. It is made by soaking a sponge cake in a mixture of three types of milk – evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk or heavy cream. The cake is then topped with whipped cream or meringue, and often decorated with fresh fruit or cinnamon. With its unique texture and irresistible flavor, Tres Leches Cake is a dessert that is sure to impress.
Tres Leches is one of those cakes I hope to see when they bring me the dessert menu. When it’s good, it’s so good. In that respect, it reminds me of creme brulee: too often it is an eggy custard, but when it is perfect, it is one of the best, most exquisite desserts around. With tres leches, it can be too sweet, too boring, too… rough? But if you’re lucky, the cake will be creamy, milky, mildly sweet, and with a naughty hint of rum. I found a lovely recipe in Bon Appetit a few years ago and after tweaking it this way I got the cake that works well for me. I like the fact that it is covered in meringue rather than whipped cream – really, who doesn’t like meringue? I hope you’ll enjoy it.
Oh, yes, I should mention some other classic American cake I’ve written about in this blog: carrot cake, new york style cheesecake, upside down plum cake (now, that one was very popular with the readers!), and black bottom pie . Yes, yes, pastel de tres leches has not been invented in the US – but I think it is now fully American :).
How to make Tres Leches Cake
For cake:1 1/2 cups flour1 tablespoon baking powder1/2 teaspoon salt2 teaspoons ground cinnamon4 eggs, separated1 1/2 cups sugar1/2 cup milk
For milk and rum syrup:
1 12-oz can evaporated milk1 14-oz can condensed milk1 1/4 cup whipping cream1 teaspoon vanilla extract2 tablespoons dark rum
For meringue:
4 egg whites1 cup sugar1/2 cup water raspberries for serving if desired
Bake cake:
Preheat oven to 350F (180C). Grease or spray a 10-in (25 cm) pan at least 2 in (5 cm) deep. Sift flour with baking powder and salt. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until frothy. Gradually add sugar, and whip to stiff peaks. Add egg yolks one at a time, then, alternating, add flour mixture and milk, 1/3 at a time, taking care not to deflate the batter. Bake about 40 min, until the top of the cake is springy and the sides start separating from the pan. Cool completely on rack.
Make milk and rum syrup: mix all ingredients.
Make meringue:
In a small pan, bring to boil sugar and water. Once the syrup starts boiling, start whipping egg whites. When the syrup reaches “soft ball” stage (235F, 113C), with the mixer running, slowly pour it into the egg whites. Continue whipping until cool (ab 5 min). The meringue should be smooth and glossy.
Assemble cake:
Place the cake on a plate with slightly raised sides (to catch any syrup that may seep from the cake). Trim the brown top off. Slowly pour the milk syrup on the cake until all is absorbed. Cover top and sides with meringue. Serve with raspberries if desired.
What does tres leches taste like?
Tres leches cake is a popular Latin American dessert that has a unique and delicious flavor. It is a sponge cake that is soaked in a sweet mixture of three types of milk, usually evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. This soaking process gives the cake a rich and moist texture, with a sweet and creamy taste that is hard to resist.
The cake is often topped with whipped cream or meringue and can be flavored with vanilla or other spices, giving it a subtle but distinct flavor. Some variations also add a touch of rum or other liqueurs for an added depth of flavor. Overall, tres leches cake is a sweet and decadent dessert that is perfect for any occasion, and its unique flavor and texture are sure to delight anyone who tries it.
What does tres leches mean?
“Tres leches” is a Spanish term that means “three milks”. The dessert gets its name from the three different types of milk used in the recipe: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream.
Is tres leches actually Mexican?
Tres leches cake is often associated with Mexican cuisine, but its origin is a matter of debate. Some sources attribute its creation to Nicaragua, while others claim that it originated in Mexico or other Latin American countries. Regardless of its origins, tres leches cake is now enjoyed throughout Latin America and the United States, and has become a beloved dessert in many households and restaurants.
How long does it take for tres leches to absorb milk?
The time it takes for a Tres Leches cake to absorb the milk mixture can vary depending on the recipe and the baking dish used. Generally, it is recommended to let the cake sit for at least 30 minutes to an hour to absorb the milk mixture properly. However, some recipes may recommend letting the cake sit for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator to allow for maximum absorption of the milk mixture. It’s essential to follow the recipe instructions carefully to achieve the desired texture and flavor of the Tres Leches cake.
How soggy should tres leches be?
Tres leches cake should be moist and spongy, but not overly soggy. The cake should absorb the three types of milk used (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and whole milk) to create a moist texture without being too wet or mushy. It’s important to let the cake sit for a few hours in the refrigerator after pouring the milk mixture over it, so that it can absorb the liquid and become evenly moist throughout. However, if the cake becomes too soggy, it can be unpleasant to eat, so it’s important to find the right balance of moisture.
Are tres leches bad for you?
Tres leches cake is a dessert that is high in calories and sugar, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The cake is made with heavy cream, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and sugar, which are all high in calories and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess. However, as an occasional treat, tres leches cake can be enjoyed as part of a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, some variations of tres leches cake may be made with alternative sweeteners or lower-fat dairy products to make a slightly healthier version of the classic recipe.
Why did my tres leches cake fall?
A tres leches cake can fall for a few reasons, including:
- Overbeating the egg whites: If you overbeat the egg whites, they can collapse and cause the cake to fall. Make sure to stop beating the egg whites once they reach stiff peaks.
- Opening the oven door too soon: If you open the oven door before the cake has set, it can cause the cake to fall.
- Underbaking the cake: If the cake is not baked all the way through, it can collapse as it cools.
- Overmixing the batter: If you overmix the batter, it can cause the cake to become dense and fall.
- Inaccurate oven temperature: If the oven temperature is too low, it can cause the cake to fall.
To avoid a fallen tres leches cake, make sure to follow the recipe instructions carefully and use the correct techniques.
What can I use instead of condensed milk in tres leches?
In traditional Tres Leches cake, condensed milk is an essential ingredient, as it adds both sweetness and moisture to the cake. However, if you cannot use condensed milk, you can try substituting it with evaporated milk or a mixture of whole milk and heavy cream. Keep in mind that this substitution may change the texture and flavor of the cake slightly, so it is best to experiment with small amounts before using it in a full recipe.
How do you transport a tres leches cake?
Transporting a tres leches cake can be a bit tricky, as the cake is very moist and can easily become damaged. Here are some tips on how to transport a tres leches cake:
- Chill the cake: It’s important to chill the cake thoroughly before transporting it. This will help it hold its shape and prevent it from becoming too soft or mushy.
- Use a sturdy container: Choose a container that is sturdy and large enough to hold the cake without squishing it. A cake carrier or a sturdy cardboard box can work well.
- Keep the cake level: Make sure the cake is level in the container to prevent it from sliding or shifting during transport. You can use a piece of non-slip matting or a towel to keep the cake in place.
- Protect the cake: Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to protect it from dust and debris during transport.
- Keep the cake cool: If possible, transport the cake in a cooler or insulated bag with ice packs to keep it cool and prevent the milk from spoiling.
- Transport the frosting separately: If you’re transporting the cake with frosting, it’s best to transport the frosting separately and apply it when you arrive at your destination. This will help prevent the frosting from melting or becoming damaged during transport.
Can dogs eat Tres Leches Cake?
It is generally not recommended to give dogs Tres Leches Cake or any other human desserts. Tres Leches Cake contains ingredients like milk, sugar, and flour that may not agree with a dog’s digestive system and can lead to stomach upset, diarrhea, or other health issues. It is best to stick to dog-specific treats and food that are formulated to meet their nutritional needs. If you suspect your dog has ingested Tres Leches Cake or any other food that may be harmful, you should contact your veterinarian right away.
How long will tres leches cake stay fresh?
Tres leches cake should be stored in the refrigerator and can last up to 3-4 days if kept properly. It is important to keep it covered or wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any other odors from the fridge. After a few days, the cake may start to become soggy and lose its texture, so it is recommended to consume it within this time frame for the best quality.
Can I skip evaporated milk in tres leches?
Evaporated milk is an important ingredient in tres leches cake as it adds a creamy texture and richness to the cake. However, if you do not have evaporated milk, you can replace it with regular milk or whole milk powder mixed with water to create a similar texture. Keep in mind that the taste and texture of the cake may differ slightly without evaporated milk.
What does Tres Leches Cake smell like?
Tres Leches Cake does not have a distinctive or strong smell, as it is primarily made of sponge cake, milk, and whipped cream. However, the milk mixture used in the recipe may have a slightly sweet and creamy aroma. Overall, the scent of a Tres Leches Cake may be subtle and pleasant, but not overpowering.
What is a substitute for sweetened condensed milk in tres leches cake?
You can use a homemade version of sweetened condensed milk as a substitute in tres leches cake. To make it, combine one cup of powdered milk with two-thirds cup of granulated sugar and one-third cup of boiling water. Mix until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes thick and creamy. This homemade condensed milk can be used in the recipe in the same way as store-bought condensed milk. Another option is to use coconut milk or cream of coconut as a substitute, which will add a slight coconut flavor to the cake. Keep in mind that the taste and texture of the cake may vary slightly depending on the substitute used.
Why is tres leches cake so good?
Tres Leches Cake is loved by many because of its unique texture and sweet flavor. The cake is soaked in a mixture of three types of milk: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. This gives the cake a moist and spongy texture that is hard to resist. The sweetness from the milk mixture complements the vanilla cake flavor, making it an indulgent dessert. Additionally, the whipped cream topping adds a lightness to the cake and balances out the richness of the milk mixture. Overall, the combination of textures and flavors in Tres Leches Cake make it a delicious and satisfying dessert.
Why does not tres leches get soggy?
Tres leches cake is actually meant to be somewhat soggy, as it is a cake that is soaked in a mixture of three different types of milk (hence the name “tres leches,” which means “three milks” in Spanish). The milk mixture is absorbed into the cake, giving it a moist and tender texture. However, if the cake is overly wet or soggy, it could be due to using too much of the milk mixture or leaving it in the milk mixture for too long. It’s important to follow the recipe and instructions carefully to achieve the right balance of moisture and texture in the cake.
How do you fix a dry tres leches cake?
If your tres leches cake has turned out dry, there are a few things you can try to help moisten it:
- Brush the cake with additional milk mixture: Mix together some additional evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream, and brush it over the cake. Let it sit for a little while to absorb before serving.
- Poke holes in the cake: Using a fork or toothpick, poke several small holes all over the cake. This will allow the milk mixture to penetrate the cake more thoroughly.
- Make a simple syrup: Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan and heat until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before brushing it over the cake.
- Add whipped cream: Spread a layer of whipped cream over the top of the cake. This will not only add moisture but also provide some added richness and flavor.
Keep in mind that adding moisture to a dry cake can only do so much. It’s best to prevent a dry cake from happening in the first place by following the recipe carefully and not overbaking the cake.