If you’re searching for a dessert that combines rich flavors and a delightful texture, look no further than this ultimate Tres Leches Cake with Strawberries recipe. This classic Latin American dessert is soaked in a trio of milks, making it irresistibly moist and creamy. Topped with fresh strawberries, it’s a must-try for any special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 5 large eggs, separated
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- ⅓ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Tres Leches Mixture:
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Topping:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberries:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with ¾ cup of the sugar until the mixture is thick and pale yellow. Stir in the milk and vanilla.
- Gently fold in the flour mixture until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites on high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining ¼ cup of sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the batter until no white streaks remain.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Tres Leches Mixture:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled, poke holes all over the surface with a fork.
- Slowly pour the tres leches mixture over the cake, ensuring it soaks in evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake.
- Prepare the Strawberries:
- In a medium bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with the sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 15-20 minutes to macerate.
- Serve:
- Slice the cake into squares and top each piece with a generous spoonful of the macerated strawberries.
- Enjoy your Ultimate Tres Leches Cake with Strawberries!
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of rum or a few drops of almond extract to the tres leches mixture.
- Ensure the cake has plenty of time to soak up the milk mixture for the best texture.
- Serve chilled for a refreshing and delicious dessert.
Nutritional Information for Tres Leches Cake with Strawberries
| Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 13 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 145 mg |
| Sodium | 140 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 37 g |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Vitamin D | 1 mcg |
| Calcium | 200 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
| Potassium | 300 mg |
FAQs for Tres Leches Cake with Strawberries Recipe
1. Can I make the cake ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead. In fact, it’s best to let the cake soak in the tres leches mixture overnight for optimal flavor and texture.
2. Can I use a different type of milk for the tres leches mixture?
- You can substitute whole milk with 2% or even almond milk if you prefer. However, the combination of evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk provides the best flavor and richness.
3. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
- Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor. However, if you use frozen strawberries, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
4. How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator. The cake will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
5. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
- Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Ensure the blend is suitable for baking.
6. What can I use instead of heavy cream for the topping?
- You can use whipped topping or a lighter whipped cream alternative if you prefer a lower-fat option.
7. Can I add other fruits to the topping?
- Absolutely! You can add other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for additional flavor and color.
8. What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch baking dish?
- You can use a similarly sized baking dish, but be mindful of the baking time. Check for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake.
9. How do I prevent the cake from becoming too soggy?
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before pouring the milk mixture. Also, allow the cake to absorb the mixture gradually for an even soak.
10. Can I add a flavor to the whipped cream topping?
- Yes, you can add a splash of vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a hint of lemon zest for added flavor.
These questions and answers can help guide anyone looking to make the Ultimate Tres Leches Cake with Strawberries recipe and ensure they achieve the best results.
