Description
A light and airy sponge cake soaked in a rich mixture of three milks, making it incredibly moist and flavorful. This easy Tres Leches Cake is a classic Latin American dessert perfect for any celebration.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat egg yolks with 3/4 cup of the sugar until pale and fluffy. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
- Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg yolk mixture until combined.
- In another clean bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the batter in batches, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely in the pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and 1/4 cup whole milk.
- Once the cake is cool, poke holes all over the top using a fork or skewer. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread over the top of the cake.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon if desired. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Make sure the cake is completely cool before adding the milk mixture to avoid sogginess.
- Letting the cake chill overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
- Top with fresh berries for a fruity twist.