Indulge in the most decadent, creamy, and refreshing dessert with this easy-to-make strawberry tres leches cake recipe. Furthermore, learn step-by-step how to prepare this sweet delight that is sure to become a family favorite. Additionally, you will find helpful tips to make the cake even more special. Therefore, whether you’re new to baking or an experienced chef, this recipe is both easy and rewarding.
Introduction
A strawberry tres leches cake is the perfect blend of fluffy sponge cake, rich and creamy milk, and the sweet freshness of strawberries. Moreover, tres leches, meaning “three milks” in Spanish, is a cake that gets its name from the combination of evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream used to soak the cake. Consequently, the result is a moist and flavorful dessert with a unique texture that is both light and decadent. Furthermore, adding strawberries takes this classic dessert to a whole new level by infusing a fruity freshness that balances the rich flavors.
If you love desserts that are easy to prepare yet look sophisticated and taste divine, this strawberry tres leches cake recipe is undoubtedly for you. Additionally, the simple ingredients make it accessible, while the vibrant flavors make it perfect for any special occasion.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Large eggs | 5 |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Whole milk | 1/3 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (14 oz) |
| Evaporated milk | 1 can (12 oz) |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Strawberries (sliced) | 1 cup |
| Whipped cream (for topping) | 2 cups |
Step-by-Step Instructions
First step: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Beat Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs on high speed until they become light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Gradually add in the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until fully incorporated.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the whole milk and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture in batches until the batter is smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour Batter Into Dish: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cool, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. This allows the milk mixture to soak in effectively.
Step 3: Prepare the Milk Soak
- Mix the Three Milks: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream.
- Pour Over Cake: Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cooled cake, ensuring that it seeps into the fork holes. Let the cake soak in the milk mixture for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, in the refrigerator for optimal results.
4 Step: Add Strawberries and Whipped Cream
- Top with Whipped Cream: Once the cake is thoroughly soaked, spread an even layer of whipped cream over the top.
- Garnish with Strawberries: Arrange the sliced strawberries evenly on top of the whipped cream. For added flavor, you can mix some strawberry puree into the whipped cream before spreading it over the cake.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the strawberry tres leches cake for at least 1 hour before serving to ensure it is cool and refreshing.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the cake into squares and serve cold, also garnished with additional strawberries if desired.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Tres Leches Cake
- Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries. So they add natural sweetness that complements the rich creaminess of the tres leches.
- Chill Well: Allowing the cake to chill overnight gives it time to fully absorb the milk mixture, resulting in the perfect moist texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when mixing the flour into the egg mixture to keep the cake light and airy.
Variations and Additions
Chocolate Strawberry Tres Leches Cake
For a delicious twist, try adding a layer of chocolate to your strawberry tres leches cake. Moreover, melt 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and mix it into the sweetened condensed milk before adding it to the milk soak mixture. Additionally, this will create a rich, chocolate-infused milk that pairs beautifully with the strawberries. Therefore, you will have a dessert that is even more decadent. Furthermore, the combination of chocolate and strawberries is always a crowd-pleaser.
Coconut Strawberry Tres Leches Cake
For a tropical variation, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk in the milk soak mixture. Additionally, you can also sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the whipped cream for added texture and flavor. Moreover, the combination of coconut and strawberries will give your tres leches cake a refreshing tropical twist. Furthermore, consider adding a touch of pineapple juice to the milk soak mixture for an even more exotic flavor. Therefore, this variation will offer a delightful tropical experience that everyone will enjoy.
Strawberry-Banana Tres Leches Cake
Add an extra layer of fruitiness by incorporating bananas. Furthermore, after adding the whipped cream, slice 2-3 ripe bananas and layer them over the top, along with the sliced strawberries. Moreover, the creamy texture of bananas adds another dimension to this already delicious dessert. Additionally, the combination of bananas and strawberries creates a delightful contrast in flavors. Therefore, this addition enhances the overall taste experience, making it more enjoyable for everyone.
History of Tres Leches Cake
Tres leches cake is a beloved dessert in many parts of Latin America, but its exact origins are still debated. Some food historians believe that the cake originated in Nicaragua, while others argue that it comes from Mexico. Regardless of its origin, tres leches cake became popular in the 20th century when Nestlé began printing a recipe for it on cans of evaporated and condensed milk.
The cake’s unique soaking process makes it stand out among other desserts. Moreover, the combination of evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream gives the cake its distinctive moistness and rich flavor. Consequently, it has become a favorite across Latin America and beyond. Additionally, the balance of flavors makes it appealing to a wide range of palates. Therefore, this cake continues to be celebrated by dessert lovers everywhere.
The Science Behind Tres Leches Cake
The science behind tres leches cake lies in its sponge cake base. Sponge cakes are made with a high proportion of eggs, which gives them their structure and allows them to absorb the milk mixture without collapsing. The proteins in the eggs help create a network that traps air, resulting in a cake that is both light and capable of holding a significant amount of liquid.
When the three milks are poured over the cake, the sponge absorbs the liquid like a sponge absorbs water. The result is a cake that is incredibly moist but not soggy, with a texture that is light and airy yet rich and creamy at the same time.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing with Beverages
- Coffee: The richness of the strawberry tres leches cake pairs perfectly with a strong cup of coffee. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the cake, making it an ideal pairing.
- Strawberry Lemonade: For a refreshing non-caffeinated option, serve the cake with a glass of strawberry lemonade. The tartness of the lemonade complements the sweetness of the cake, creating a balanced flavor profile.
- Champagne: If you’re serving the cake for a special occasion, consider pairing it with a glass of champagne. The light bubbles and crisp acidity of the champagne provide a lovely contrast to the creamy texture of the cake.
Decorating Ideas
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the whipped cream and strawberries for an added layer of richness.
- Edible Flowers: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the cake with edible flowers, such as pansies or violets.
- Fruit Compote: Prepare a simple strawberry or mixed berry compote by cooking berries with a bit of sugar until they break down and thicken. Spoon the compote over each slice before serving for an extra burst of fruity flavor.
Healthier Alternatives
Low-Sugar Version
If you’re looking to reduce the sugar content of this strawberry tres leches cake, consider using unsweetened condensed milk and reducing the amount of granulated sugar in the cake batter. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to further reduce the sugar content.
Dairy-Free Version
For a dairy-free version of this cake, substitute the evaporated milk with coconut milk, the sweetened condensed milk with a non-dairy condensed milk alternative, and the heavy cream with coconut cream. The result will be a deliciously creamy cake with a slight coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
Gluten-Free Version
To make a gluten-free strawberry tres leches cake, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure that the baking powder you use is also gluten-free. The result will be just as fluffy and delicious as the original version, perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Are Tres Leches Not Soggy?
The key to a perfect tres leches cake is the sponge. The cake is specifically designed to absorb the liquid without becoming soggy. The airy structure of the sponge allows it to absorb the tres leches mixture while retaining its shape. If the cake turns out soggy, it may have been over-soaked or the cake base was not prepared correctly.
How Long Should Tres Leches Soak?
To achieve the best results, the tres leches cake should soak for at least 2 hours. However, for an even more decadent texture, soaking it overnight in the refrigerator is highly recommended.
What Is Tres Leches Sauce Made Of?
Tres leches sauce is made from three types of milk: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. This combination provides a rich and creamy texture that makes tres leches cake so unique and delicious.
Is Tres Leches Cake Spanish or Mexican?
Tres leches cake has roots in Latin America, and it is especially popular in Mexico. While its exact origin is debated, it is widely enjoyed throughout Latin America and is often attributed to Mexican culinary traditions.
Can I Make Tres Leches Cake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! In fact, tres leches cake is best when made ahead of time. Allowing the cake to soak overnight ensures that all the flavors meld together perfectly. You can prepare the cake a day or even two in advance, keeping it chilled until you’re ready to serve.
How Do I Store Strawberry Tres Leches Cake?
Store the strawberry tres leches cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, to prevent it from drying out. The cake will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days. However, it is best enjoyed within the first couple of days when it’s at its moistest.
Can I Freeze Tres Leches Cake?
While it is possible to freeze tres leches cake, it is not generally recommended due to its high moisture content. Freezing can affect the texture of the cake, making it less creamy when thawed. If you must freeze it, do so before adding the whipped cream and strawberries, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving and add the toppings just before serving.
Serving Ideas for Special Occasions
Birthday Parties
A strawberry tres leches cake is a wonderful choice for a birthday celebration. You can customize the decoration with the birthday person’s favorite fruits or even add a fun, personalized cake topper. The combination of creamy milk and fresh strawberries makes it a delightful and refreshing treat for guests of all ages.
Mother’s Day Celebration
Show your appreciation for mom by making this delicious cake for Mother’s Day. The beautiful strawberries and elegant decoration options make it a great way to show love and gratitude. Serve it with a glass of rosé or a cup of her favorite tea for an extra-special treat.
Summer Gatherings
This cake is ideal for summer gatherings or BBQs due to its light and refreshing taste. You can even make mini tres leches cakes by baking the batter in muffin tins, soaking them, and topping each with a dollop of whipped cream and a strawberry slice. These individual servings are perfect for parties and easy to serve outdoors.
Advanced Tips for Perfecting Your Tres Leches Cake
Achieving the Perfect Sponge
The key to a great tres leches cake is the sponge. To achieve the perfect sponge, make sure you beat the eggs long enough to incorporate plenty of air. The lightness of the cake comes from the air trapped in the egg mixture. Be careful not to deflate the eggs when adding the flour mixture—fold gently until just combined to retain as much air as possible.
Even Milk Distribution
To ensure that the milk mixture is evenly distributed throughout the cake, poke plenty of holes across the entire surface of the cake. Use a fork or a skewer, and make sure the holes are evenly spaced. Pour the milk mixture slowly, giving the cake time to absorb it without pooling on the surface.
Flavor Enhancements
- Vanilla Beans: For an extra layer of flavor, add the seeds of one vanilla bean to the milk mixture. The specks of vanilla will add a gourmet touch to your cake.
- Strawberry Puree: Mix some strawberry puree into the sweetened condensed milk before combining it with the other milks. This will infuse the entire cake with a stronger strawberry flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Add some lemon or lime zest to the cake batter for a hint of citrus that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the strawberries and cream.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overbaking the Sponge
Overbaking the cake will result in a dry sponge that won’t absorb the milk mixture properly. Keep an eye on the cake while it’s in the oven, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready. The cake should be lightly golden on top but not too dark.
Pouring the Milk Too Quickly
Pouring the milk mixture too quickly can cause it to pool on the surface rather than soak into the cake. To avoid this, pour the milk mixture slowly and evenly, allowing time for each portion to absorb before adding more. This ensures that the cake soaks up all the rich, creamy goodness.
Using Cold Ingredients
Using cold ingredients can affect the texture of the sponge cake. Make sure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting, especially the eggs. Room temperature eggs will whip up to a greater volume, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cake.
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