why make this recipe
Three Milks Cake, or Tres Leches Cake, is a delightfully moist dessert that makes a perfect treat for any occasion. This cake is soaked in three types of milk, giving it a rich flavor and creamy texture that simply melts in your mouth. It’s easy to make and can impress family and friends at gatherings or celebrations. Plus, it’s a great way to change up your usual dessert routine!
how to make Three Milks Cake
Ingredients
- cooking spray with flour
- 1 cup white sugar, divided
- 5 large eggs, separated, divided
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.33 cup milk
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 pint heavy whipping cream, divided
- 10 maraschino cherries
Directions
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Make the cake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a 9-inch springform pan with floured cooking spray.
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Beat 3/4 cup sugar and egg yolks in a mixing bowl with an electric mixer until light in color and doubled in volume. Stir in flour, milk, baking powder, and vanilla.
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Beat egg whites in a glass or metal bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining 1/4 cup sugar, continuing to beat until medium peaks form. Fold 1/3 of the egg white mixture into the egg yolk mixture to lighten it. Fold in remaining egg whites, then pour batter into the prepared pan.
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Bake in the preheated oven until a cake tester inserted into the middle comes out clean, 45 to 50 minutes. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Loosen the edges with a knife, then remove the sides. Let cake cool completely on the wire rack, about 20 more minutes.
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Invert cake onto a deep serving plate and remove the pan bottom. Pierce the cake all over with a two-pronged meat fork or a cake tester.
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Make the filling and topping: Mix condensed milk, evaporated milk, and 1/4 cup whipping cream together in a bowl. Measure 1 cup milk mixture and refrigerate for another use. Slowly pour remaining milk mixture over the cake until absorbed.
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Pour remaining whipping cream into a chilled glass or metal bowl. Beat with an electric mixer until it thickens and reaches spreading consistency. Spread whipped cream over the cake and garnish with cherries.
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If not serving immediately, refrigerate until ready to serve.
how to serve Three Milks Cake
Serve Three Milks Cake chilled for the best flavor. Slice it into pieces and place on dessert plates. You can add extra cherries or some fresh fruit on the side to make it look even prettier.
how to store Three Milks Cake
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to keep it sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors in the fridge.
tips to make Three Milks Cake
- Make sure to beat the egg whites well. They help the cake rise and make it fluffy.
- Let the cake cool completely before pouring the milk mixture over it to avoid making it soggy.
- For added flavor, you can mix cinnamon or cocoa powder into the whipped cream.
variation
You can personalize Three Milks Cake by adding different flavored extracts like almond or coconut. Also, consider topping it with fresh berries or a layer of fruit preserves for a fruity twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use low-fat milk instead?
A: Yes, but it may slightly change the taste and texture. The original recipe uses whole milk for richness.
Q: How long does it take to make this cake?
A: It takes about 1.5 hours in total, including baking and cooling time.
Q: Can I freeze Three Milks Cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
