When it comes to desserts that feel like a warm hug, Tres Leches Cake is right at the top of my list. This classic Latin American cake, soaked in a dreamy mixture of three types of milk, always brings back fond memories of family gatherings where we would all eagerly await the sweet treat to make its debut. That first bite is a revelation—soft, creamy, and rich, it’s like a slice of cake heaven! And when you top it off with a luscious dulce de leche glaze? Oh my goodness! It’s essentially dessert magic.
What I love most about making this cake is how the flavors meld together, creating a moist and indulgent experience like no other. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up! Today, I’m excited to share my version of Tres Leches Cake with a delightful dulce de leche glaze. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also the perfect dessert for any occasion, from birthdays to casual family dinners. Trust me, grab your mixing bowls, and let’s get started!
What’s in Tres Leches Cake with Dulce de Leche Glaze?
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our cake, providing the perfect texture that balances moistness with fluffiness. I find that using a good quality brand makes all the difference—King Arthur Flour is my favorite.
Baking Powder: This little leavening agent is what helps our cake rise and become airy. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results—nobody wants a sad, flat cake!
Unsalted Butter: Adding richness and flavor, butter is essential for that melt-in-your-mouth quality. I always opt for real butter, as the flavor is unbeatable.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key, and the sugar also helps create a tender crumb in our cake.
Eggs: These little wonders are the secret to structure and moisture. I use large eggs in all my baking adventures, which usually yields the best results.
Whole Milk: The first of our trio of ‘leches’! This not only adds moisture but also imparts a lovely creaminess to the cake.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: We’re about to take this cake to the next level! This adds incredible sweetness and a luscious mouthfeel.
Evaporated Milk: The final component in our milk mixture, this adds a rich flavor that makes the cake even more irresistible.
Dulce de Leche: The star of our glaze! You can buy it pre-made or make your own. It’s a delightful caramel-like sauce that pairs beautifully with our cake.
Is Tres Leches Cake with Dulce de Leche Glaze Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about how this cake fits into the health conversation. While Tres Leches Cake is undeniably a decadent treat, it does pack some calories!
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Although it’s delicious, it does contain a significant amount of sugar, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Whole Milk: Using whole milk adds creaminess and flavor, but if you’re looking for a healthier version, you can substitute it with low-fat milk.
On the bright side, this cake doesn’t contain any artificial ingredients, and when made with love, it can be a beautiful way to celebrate life’s special moments. Just don’t forget to balance it out with some fresh fruit or a walk after enjoying your slice!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1½ tsp baking powder
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 5 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
– 1 cup dulce de leche (for glaze)
This recipe serves about 10-12 people, perfect for sharing (or not!).
How to Make Tres Leches Cake with Dulce de Leche Glaze?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Set this aside for now.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 4-5 minutes. I love to use an electric mixer here; it makes everything easier!
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then pour in the whole milk and mix until combined.
5. Gradually add in the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix—lumpy batter is totally fine!
6. Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula, and gently tap it on the counter to release any air bubbles.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the pan.
8. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and additional whole milk. Once the cake is cooled, poke holes all over the surface with a fork or toothpick, then slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
9. To make the dulce de leche glaze, gently heat the dulce de leche in a small saucepan until it’s pourable, about 2-3 minutes.
10. Drizzle the warm dulce de leche over the soaked cake, and you can also top it with whipped cream and fruit if you like!
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Let your creativity shine! Tres Leches Cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or kiwi. You could also add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for a hint of spice or even some chopped nuts for added texture.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with different flavored extracts, like almond or vanilla, in the cake batter for a twist on the classic. The possibilities are endless!
I hope you love making this Tres Leches Cake as much as I do! It’s the perfect way to celebrate life’s sweet moments—because who doesn’t deserve a scrumptious slice of cake, right? Please try it out, savor each bite, and let me know how it turns out. Happy baking, my friend!
