Strawberry Tres Leches Cake Recipe: A Sweet and Creamy Delight
Experience a heavenly blend of light sponge cake soaked in three-milk mixture with fresh strawberries. This Strawberry Tres Leches Cake puts a twist on the traditional Mexican dessert. It’s perfect for celebrations and spring gatherings.
The strawberry-infused milk creates a luscious, creamy texture that will tantalise your taste buds. This cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next event.
This recipe serves 12 and takes only 15 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes for baking. For best results, refrigerate overnight to let the milk mixture fully soak into the cake.
The dense, satisfying texture may call for smaller servings. This dessert is ideal for Cinco de Mayo celebrations or special birthday gatherings.
You can enhance the strawberry flavour further to suit different taste preferences. The rich, creamy taste of this cake will surely impress your guests.
Introduction to This Heavenly Mexican-Inspired Dessert
Tres Leches cake is a traditional Mexican dessert loved worldwide. It’s a moist, creamy treat made by soaking sponge cake in three types of milk. The result is a decadent cake with a rich, velvety texture and subtle sweetness.
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This ‘Three Milk Cake’ uses sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk. The blend creates a unique flavour that’s both indulgent and refreshing.
Origins of Tres Leches Cake
Tres Leches cake originated in 19th century Mexico. It evolved from ‘Pastel de Tri Leches’, a Latin American dessert with milk-soaked cake.
Over time, the recipe was refined to become the iconic Tres Leches cake we enjoy today. Its popularity has spread far beyond its Mexican roots.
Why Strawberry Makes It Special
Adding fresh strawberries elevates this Mexican-inspired dessert to new heights. The sweet, tangy berries complement the creamy milk-soaked cake beautifully.
This combination creates a harmonious and nostalgic taste. The vibrant red strawberries also make the cake visually stunning, perfect for any occasion.
“Tres Leches cake is a celebration of Mexican cuisine, blending traditional flavours with a touch of seasonal sweetness. The combination of milk-soaked sponge and fresh strawberries is an absolute delight.”
Essential Ingredients for Your Strawberry Tres Leches Cake
Creating a perfect Strawberry Tres Leches Cake requires a careful mix of key ingredients. The base is a moist cake made with strawberry cake mix or vanilla cake mix enhanced with fresh strawberries. Other crucial elements include eggs, oil, sour cream, and three types of milk.
For a homemade version, you’ll need flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and vanilla extract. The tres leches mixture blends whole milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. This gives the dessert its signature creamy texture.
Fresh strawberries are essential for both flavour and appearance. They’re used in the cake and as a garnish. The strawberries’ sweetness balances perfectly with the rich milk-based topping.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Strawberry cake mix or vanilla cake mix with fresh strawberries | 15.25 oz |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Oil | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs, large | 4 |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 3/4 cup |
| Evaporated milk | 3/4 cup |
| Half and half | 3/4 cup |
| Fresh strawberries, stems removed | 1 lb |
| Granulated sugar | 1 Tbsp |
| Heavy whipping cream | 3 cups |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Fresh strawberries, stems removed and chopped | 1/2 lb |
With these ingredients, you’re set to make a stunning Strawberry Tres Leches Cake. Your guests will be amazed by this delightful dessert.
Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed
Creating a Strawberry Tres Leches Cake requires specific kitchen equipment and tools. Let’s explore the items you’ll need for this recipe.
Baking Tools
- A 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is ideal for baking and soaking the cake in the tres leches mixture.
- A fish spatula or offset spatula: These tools help remove the cake from the dish and transfer it to a platter.
- A skewer or chopstick: Use this to poke holes in the baked cake for even milk absorption.
- A strainer or sieve: This helps achieve a smooth, lump-free strawberry milk mixture.
Mixing Equipment
You’ll need these items for the cake batter and milk mixture:
- An electric mixer to whip egg whites and cream butter and sugar.
- Large mixing bowls for incorporating ingredients and mixing the batter.
- A whisk for blending the milk mixture to ensure smoothness.
- A potato masher or fork to mash fresh strawberries for the milk mixture.
Storage Essentials
After baking and soaking the cake, you’ll need these for proper storage:
- A refrigerator to chill the cake and keep it fresh.
- Airtight containers or plastic wrap to cover the cake and prevent drying out.
These kitchen tools will help you create a delicious Strawberry Tres Leches Cake. Your taste buds will thank you for the effort.
Strawberry Tres Leches Cake Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Create a delightful Strawberry Tres Leches Cake with vibrant flavours and creamy texture. This Mexican-inspired dessert is a true masterpiece you can make at home.
Follow these steps to craft your own delicious Strawberry Tres Leches Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cake batter ingredients. Mix 3/4 cup flour, 1/4 cup butter, 4 eggs, 1/2 cup sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
- Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-34 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. The baking temperature is key for perfect spongy texture.
- Poke holes all over the warm cakes with a fork or toothpick. This helps the milk mixture absorb evenly.
Next, prepare the creamy three-milk mixture. This will soak into the cakes, creating the signature Tres Leches taste.
- Blend 200g fresh strawberries, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1/4 cup condensed milk, 3/4 cup evaporated milk, and 1/4 cup whipping cream.
- Pour the milk mixture over the warm, poked cakes. Let them soak for 2 hours or overnight in the fridge.
Your cakes are now soaked in the delicious three-milk blend. You’re ready to assemble and decorate your Strawberry Tres Leches Cake.
The Perfect Three-Milk Mixture and Soaking Technique
Crafting a luscious Strawberry Tres Leches Cake hinges on the milk infusion and soaking method. A harmonious blend of three milk types creates a creamy foundation for this Mexican-inspired dessert.
Creating the Milk Blend
Start by pureeing fresh strawberries with sugar until smooth. Heat this puree with evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and fresh heavy cream. Let the mixture steep for an hour to infuse the cake with strawberry flavour.
Proper Soaking Methods
- After baking and cooling the sponge cake, poke holes all over its surface with a fork. This creates a porous texture for better milk absorption.
- Slowly pour the warm strawberry-infused milk blend over the cake, ensuring even distribution. This gradual process is crucial for maximum flavour and moisture.
- Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the milk to fully saturate the cake.
Timing and Temperature Tips
Let the cake cool for 30 minutes before adding the milk mixture. This ensures proper absorption without sogginess. Refrigerate until chilled to enhance the creamy texture and flavour.
Whipped Cream Topping and Decoration
The star of this Strawberry Tres Leches Cake is its thick, luscious whipped cream layer. Mix heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread it evenly over the chilled cake for a polished look.
Garnish the cake with sliced fresh strawberries or crushed freeze-dried strawberries. These juicy berries perfectly match the cake’s creamy texture. For extra fruitiness, add a thin layer of strawberry jam between the sponge and whipped cream.
| Nutrition Facts (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 474 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 71 g |
| Protein | 11 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 128 mg |
| Sodium | 217 mg |
| Potassium | 438 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 54 g |
| Vitamin A | 624 IU |
| Vitamin C | 25 mg |
| Calcium | 256 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
The nutrition facts show this fresh whipped cream-topped strawberry garnish cake decoration is quite indulgent. While not the healthiest option, a slice of this Strawberry Tres Leches Cake is a real treat.
“The whipped cream topping and fresh strawberry garnish take this Tres Leches Cake to the next level of decadence and flavour.”
This Strawberry Tres Leches Cake with its fresh whipped cream, strawberry garnish, and cake decoration will wow your guests. It’s perfect for special occasions or when you fancy a luxurious dessert.
Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Instructions
Proper storage is vital for your Strawberry Tres Leches Cake. It keeps the cake moist and tasty. Follow these tips to maintain its freshness and texture.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Always store your cake covered in the fridge. This prevents it from drying out. Make the cake a day or two ahead for best results.
Add the whipped cream topping just before serving. This ensures the cream stays fresh and fluffy.
Shelf Life and Freshness
The Strawberry Tres Leches Cake is perfect for making ahead. It’s best eaten within 3-4 days of preparation. The flavours improve as the cake soaks up the milk mixture.
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic or use an airtight container. This helps keep it creamy and prevents drying. Proper storage is key to a delicious cake.
Refrigerate and eat your cake promptly for the best taste. These tips ensure a moist, flavourful dessert every time. Your guests will love this irresistible treat!
Conclusion
Strawberry Tres Leches Cake blends Mexican flavours with refreshing strawberries. This moist, rich dessert suits various occasions, from casual gatherings to formal celebrations. It’s sure to impress guests and become a favourite in your recipe collection.
Crafting an exceptional cake requires attention to detail. The perfect three-milk blend and even absorption are crucial. Following the instructions carefully ensures a moist, flavourful treat.
Proper storage guidelines help maintain the cake’s delicious essence. This versatile dessert offers classic and creative variations to suit different tastes. The Chocolate-Strawberry Fusion and Coconut Infusion are exciting alternatives to try.
Ready to bake? Gather your ingredients and preheat the oven. Discover the rich, creamy layers of this culinary masterpiece. Your taste buds will thank you for this delightful experience.
FAQ
What is Strawberry Tres Leches Cake?
Strawberry Tres Leches Cake is a scrumptious dessert that blends sponge cake with a three-milk mixture. It adds a fresh twist to the classic Mexican treat. The cake boasts a springy flavour that’s similar to strawberry milk.
What are the key ingredients in Strawberry Tres Leches Cake?
The main ingredients include strawberry or vanilla cake mix, eggs, oil, and sour cream. You’ll also need sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, half-and-half, fresh strawberries, sugar, and heavy whipping cream.
For a homemade version, you’ll use all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and vanilla extract.
What equipment is required to make Strawberry Tres Leches Cake?
You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish, an electric mixer, and large mixing bowls. A whisk, potato masher, blender, and skewer for poking holes are also essential.
A strainer might help with the strawberry milk mixture. Don’t forget proper storage containers for refrigeration.
How do you make the Strawberry Tres Leches Cake?
First, prepare and bake the cake batter, then poke holes in the warm cake. Blend strawberries, sugar, and milk to create the strawberry milk mixture.
Pour this mixture over the warm cake. Let the cake cool completely before chilling for at least 2 hours.
How do you make the three-milk mixture and soak the cake?
Blend strawberries with sugar and milk, then let the mixture steep for an hour. Pour it evenly over the warm cake.
Allow the cake to soak for at least 2 hours. For best results, leave it overnight to absorb maximum flavour.
How do you finish the Strawberry Tres Leches Cake?
Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread this whipped cream over the chilled cake.
Garnish with fresh sliced strawberries or crushed freeze-dried strawberries. For extra flavour, add a layer of strawberry jam before the topping.
How should Strawberry Tres Leches Cake be stored?
Keep the cake covered in the fridge. You can make it ahead and chill overnight before adding the topping.
For the best taste, eat the cake within 3-4 days. Its moisture improves over time, making it perfect for parties.
