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A close-up shot of an airy tres leches cake sponge being soaked in a creamy three-milk mixture.

Tres Leches Cake Recipe

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5 from 18 reviews

Description

This signature Tres Leches cake features a light, airy sponge designed to perfectly absorb a decadent three-milk soak. Finished with a fresh whipped cream topping and a hint of cinnamon, it delivers a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is both rich and refreshing.

Ingredients

  • 5 large eggs, separated
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, divided
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 12 oz evaporated milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream, divided
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • Ground cinnamon for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and spray a 9×13 inch glass baking dish with non-stick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy, then gradually add 1 cup of sugar while whisking on high until thick, glossy, stiff peaks form.
  3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar; add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  4. Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together, then alternate adding the milk and the flour mixture into the yolk bowl, mixing gently by hand.
  5. Using a spatula, gently fold the stiff egg whites into the batter just until the white streaks disappear to maintain the airy structure.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Allow the cake to cool for at least 30 minutes.
  8. Whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla.
  9. Poke holes all over the cooled cake with a fork and slowly pour the milk mixture over the top, then let it chill in the refrigerator to soak.
  10. Beat the remaining heavy cream with powdered sugar and the remaining vanilla until stiff peaks form; spread over the cake and sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.

Notes

To ensure the best absorption, poke your holes deep and close together so the milk mixture reaches the very bottom of the sponge. If you have the time, let the cake soak overnight in the refrigerator; this allows the flavors to meld and the texture to become even more luscious and stable for slicing.

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 40 mins
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Latin American

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Find it online: https://meltcake.com/tres-leches-cake/