pastel de tres leches recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best pastel de tres leches recipe

Pastel de Tres Leches

4.7 from 1413 votes

This classic Mexican dessert is a light and airy sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three milks. It is a perfect treat for any celebration or a simple family dinner.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Three Milks Mixture

1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Topping

2 cups heavy cream
1/4 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fresh strawberries or cinnamon for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
4Add the flour mixture alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
5In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter until no white streaks remain.
6Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
7While the cake cools, prepare the three milks mixture. In a bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream.
8Once the cake is cool, pierce it all over with a fork. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
9For the topping, beat the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread over the soaked cake. Garnish with strawberries or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish
Electric mixer
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 14g❤️Cholesterol: 135mg🧂Sodium: 220mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 30g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

For best results, refrigerate the cake overnight so the milk mixture fully absorbs. You can also add a splash of rum to the milk mixture for an adult version.

Watch Video Of How Pastel de Tres Leches Works

This pastel de tres leches recipe is one I turn to again and again because it is so simple to make yet always impresses. It is a perfect dessert for birthdays, holidays, or just a weekend treat with the family. I hope you enjoy making it as much as my family does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pastel de Tres Leches

1. Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute the whole milk in the cake with almond milk or oat milk, but the texture may be slightly different. For the three milks mixture, using full-fat versions is best for creaminess.

2. How long does tres leches cake last?

It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.

3. Can I make this cake gluten free?

Absolutely. Use a gluten free all purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. The cake will still be tender and delicious.

4. Why did my cake come out dense?

This can happen if the egg whites are not beaten enough or if they are overmixed into the batter. Make sure to fold gently until just combined.

5. Can I freeze tres leches cake?

Yes, you can freeze it before adding the topping. Wrap the soaked cake tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator, then add the whipped cream topping.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

Similar Posts