The classic Tres Leches cake is already a decadent masterpiece, but adding the bright, juicy sweetness of strawberries elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness. This recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of a traditional Tres Leches with the vibrant freshness of strawberries, creating a dessert that's both impressive and surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible treat!
What is Tres Leches Cake?
Before we dive into the strawberry-infused version, let's briefly explore the origins of this beloved cake. Tres Leches, meaning "three milks" in Spanish, is a sponge cake soaked in a mixture of evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. This creates an incredibly moist and rich texture that's unlike any other cake. Our strawberry version will build upon this foundation, adding a fruity twist that's both refreshing and decadent.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Strawberry Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Tres Leches Mixture:
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Baking the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don't overmix!
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before proceeding.
2. Making the Strawberry Topping:
- While the cake cools, prepare the strawberry topping. In a medium bowl, gently combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice (if using). Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices and slightly macerate.
3. Soaking the Cake (the Tres Leches magic!):
- Once the cake is completely cool, poke holes all over the surface using a fork or toothpick. This allows the milk mixture to penetrate the cake evenly.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream until well combined.
- Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, ensuring it soaks evenly. You may need to tilt the pan to distribute the liquid. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or even longer, to allow the cake to fully absorb the milk mixture.
4. Assembling the Dessert:
- Once the cake has absorbed the milk, gently spoon the macerated strawberries over the top, spreading them evenly.
- If desired, top with whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set. This chilling step enhances the overall taste and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does strawberry Tres Leches cake last?
A properly stored strawberry Tres Leches cake can last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. However, it's best enjoyed within the first two days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
While fresh strawberries are ideal, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the topping.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake is even better after it's had time to chill in the refrigerator. You can prepare the cake and soak it a day or two in advance. Just add the strawberry topping closer to serving time.
What kind of pan should I use?
A 9x13 inch baking pan is recommended for this recipe. You could potentially use a different size, but the baking time and milk mixture amount might need adjusting.
Can I substitute other berries?
Absolutely! Raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries would also be delicious in this recipe. Just adjust the sugar amount depending on the sweetness of the berries you choose.
This strawberry Tres Leches cake recipe is a delightful fusion of classic flavors and fresh, fruity sweetness. It’s guaranteed to impress your guests and become a new family favorite. Enjoy!
