Are you craving a moist, decadent dessert that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than this easy Tres Leches cake recipe! This classic Latin American dessert, known for its heavenly layers of sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk, is usually a labor of love. But we're about to share a secret: you can achieve amazing results using a cake mix, making this delicious dish accessible to everyone. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and anyone looking for a quick and impressive dessert for a special occasion or a weeknight treat. It's one of those easy recipes that yields impressive results, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) white cake mix
- Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 (12-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (for topping, optional)
- Strawberries or other berries (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Getting Started: Baking the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your cake won't stick.
- Prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the cake mix box. This usually involves adding eggs, oil, and water. Mix until just combined – don't overmix!
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Soaking the Cake: The Magic of Three Milks
- While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the surface using a fork or a skewer. This creates channels for the milk mixture to soak into, resulting in that signature Tres Leches moistness.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the warm cake, ensuring all areas are soaked. You may need to tilt the pan to help the milk reach every corner. Let the cake soak for at least 30 minutes, or even longer for a super-moist result. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Finishing Touches & Serving
- Once the cake has soaked and chilled, it's ready to be served! Top with whipped cream and fresh berries for an extra touch of elegance. You can also dust it with powdered sugar for a simpler presentation.
Tips for Tres Leches Success:
- Don't overmix the cake batter. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
- Make sure to poke plenty of holes in the cake to allow for proper soaking.
- Let the cake soak and chill thoroughly for the best results. The longer it sits, the more delicious it becomes!
- For a richer flavor, use Mexican vanilla extract.
Variations:
- Chocolate Tres Leches: Use a chocolate cake mix and add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the milk mixture.
- Coconut Tres Leches: Add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the milk mixture.
- Citrus Tres Leches: Add the zest of one lime or orange to the milk mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Sugar: Approximately 40-50g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy Tres Leches cake recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. It's a delicious and impressive dessert that's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers. It's a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, perfect for family gatherings or simply enjoying a delightful treat at home. Enjoy this delightful and easy homemade cooking experience!