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A delectable slice of Tres Leches cake with whipped cream and a cherry

Best way to grow Tres Leches Cake in 3 Steps

This recipe is not about "growing" Tres Leches Cake. Instead, it provides a method for preparing a delicious Tres Leches Cake, a classic dessert made with three types of milk. It's a delightful treat for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • electric mixer
  • fork or skewer

Ingredients
  

Cake

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk

Tres Leches Mixture

  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 can (14 oz) condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

Whipped Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Bake the Cake

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the whole milk, mixing until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.

Prepare and Soak the Cake

  • Once the cake is cooled, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the top surface. In a bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, condensed milk, and 1/2 cup heavy cream.
  • Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the entire cake, ensuring it soaks into all the holes. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to absorb the liquid completely.

Add Whipped Topping

  • In a cold bowl, beat the 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake.
  • Slice and serve cold, optionally garnished with fresh fruit like strawberries or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Notes

For an extra touch, you can add a hint of rum or Kahlúa to the milk mixture. Ensure the cake is completely cooled before adding the milk mixture to prevent it from becoming soggy. Refrigerating overnight provides the best absorption and flavor development.