The Strawberry Three Milks Cake, or “Pastel de Tres Leches” as it is known in Latin America, is a luscious and indulgent dessert that beautifully combines the rich flavors of moist cake and the delicious freshness of strawberries. This stunning cake is truly a feast for the senses. It features a light and airy sponge cake soaked in a dreamy blend of three milks: condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. This soaking process creates a moist texture that melts in your mouth, while the strawberry purée and compote elevate the overall flavor, making each bite an exquisite experience.
Imagine a cake that is not only visually appealing but also bursting with refreshing fruit essence, perfectly complemented with fluffy whipped cream and garnished with fresh strawberries. The Strawberry Three Milks Cake is perfect for any occasion, be it birthdays, anniversaries, or simply a delightful ending to a family meal. Its versatility and crowd-pleasing qualities make it a treasured addition to dessert menus all over the world.
In this article, we’ll explore the necessary steps to craft this delightful treat, from the ingredients to the serving suggestions, as well as provide tips and variations to make the most out of this recipe.
Ingredients About Strawberry Three Milks Cake
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- For the cake:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (100 g)
- Pinch of salt (if using unsalted butter)
- 1/4 cup butter (55 g)
- 4 eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup caster sugar (100 g)
- 2 tsps vanilla extract
- 200 g fresh strawberries
- 1 tbsp caster sugar (for berry maceration)
- For the tres leches mixture:
- 1/4 cup condensed milk (80 g)
- 3/4 cup evaporated milk (200 ml)
- 1/4 cup whipping cream, at room temperature (60 ml)
- For the strawberry compote:
- 200 g fresh strawberries (for compote)
- 1 tbsp caster sugar
- 1 and 1/2 tbsps water
- 1/2 tsp cornflour/cornstarch
- For the topping:
- 1/4 cup whipping cream, chilled (60 ml)
- 1 tbsp caster sugar
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup compote
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
While this recipe is designed to be perfect as is, there are a couple of optional substitutes you can consider:
- Butter: If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute.
- Eggs: For a vegan twist, flaxseed meal mixed with water can replace eggs in sponge cakes. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg, allowing it to sit until it thickens.
- Fresh Strawberries: If strawberries are out of season, you can opt for other berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or even a mix of berries for a delightful explosion of flavors.
- Heavy Cream: If you need a lighter option, use whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free topping.
How to Make Strawberry Three Milks Cake Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Lightly grease a rectangular baking dish that measures about 10×7 inches (or an 8.5×6.5 inch dish, if that’s what you have), ensuring there’s enough space for the strawberry puree to saturate the cake properly.
Before moving forward, make sure to measure all your ingredients for the sponge cake and keep them ready. For the dry ingredients, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt (if you are using unsalted butter) into a bowl, and set it aside for later.
Melt the butter in the microwave or on a stovetop until just liquid, then allow it to cool slightly. While doing this, fill a saucepan with a small amount of water and place it on medium heat until it starts to simmer.
In a mixing bowl that fits comfortably over your saucepan (without the bottom touching the water), combine the 4 eggs, 1/2 cup of caster sugar, and the 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Lower the heat to low and place the bowl over the simmering water, whisking continuously for about 5-7 minutes. This double boiler method warms the eggs gently, creating a frothy and airy mixture—essential for achieving a light sponge.
Step 2: Mixing the Batter
Transferring the warm egg mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat on high speed for about 5 minutes. The mixture should double in volume, thickening until it leaves ribbons when you lift the whisk. Transfer this puffy mixture to a larger bowl if necessary.
Gently fold in half of the sifted flour, using a silicone spatula. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to maintain that airy structure, so gently cut through the batter and fold rather than stirring vigorously. Once half the flour is incorporated, add the remaining sifted flour, folding it in just until no streaks remain.
Now, slowly drizzle the melted butter into the batter while folding gently to incorporate. Ensure that you mix it well enough to combine without letting the butter settle at the bottom.
Step 3: Baking the Cake
Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan immediately. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and when lightly pressed, it springs back. Be cautious not to over-mix as this can cause the cake to dome and potentially collapse after cooling.
Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan at room temperature; this process may take at least 3 hours. Soaking the cake while it is still warm will result in a soggy texture, which we certainly want to avoid!
Step 4: Make the Tres Leches Mixture
As the cake cools, prepare the tres leches mixture. Start by washing the fresh strawberries and removing their stems. Slice the strawberries in half, then mix with the tablespoon of sugar in a small bowl. Allow this mixture to sit for about 15 minutes before blending it into a smooth purée.
In a separate bowl, combine the strawberry purée with the condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. Whisk all of these ingredients together thoroughly until well combined, and set it aside.
Prepare the cake for soaking by running a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake, ensuring the soaking liquid gets into all corners. With a fork, poke multiple holes all over the cooled cake, pressing the fork right down to the bottom. This is crucial as it allows the milks to permeate through the cake.
Once prepared, take about one-third of the tres leches mixture and gradually pour the remaining liquid over the cake, allowing time for each spoonful to be absorbed before adding more. It’s normal for some liquid to pool on the top and sides, as this ensures the cake remains lush without becoming entirely soggy. Cover the dish with clingfilm and refrigerate overnight for better absorption.
Step 5: Make the Compote
On the day you make the cake, start preparing the strawberry compote. Wash and chop the additional 200 g of fresh strawberries into small pieces. In a saucepan, combine these chopped strawberries, a tablespoon of sugar, and a tablespoon of water.
Place the saucepan on low heat, gently stirring until the strawberries start to cook and boil. Mash the strawberries as they soften to help them break down. Dissolve the cornflour in the remaining half tablespoon of water and pour this into the saucepan. Keep stirring and allow it to boil for 3-4 minutes until it thickens. Once done, pour the compote into a bowl, allow it to cool to room temperature, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 6: Make the Topping
To prepare the topping, combine the chilled whipping cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup of the chilled compote in a mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer, beat on medium-high speed until soft rounded peaks form. Don’t worry if the mixture doesn’t form stiff peaks; if it’s on the softer side, it’ll pair well with the compote’s consistency.
When ready to serve, retrieve the chilled cake from the fridge. Spread the whipped cream topping evenly over the cake, then decorate with sliced fresh strawberries. Once adorned, refrigerate the cake again for approximately 20 minutes before serving. When ready, slice the cake into six generous pieces and serve with any reserved tres leches mixture on the side to enhance flavor and uniform soaking.
How to Serve Strawberry Three Milks Cake
Best Ways to Serve Strawberry Three Milks Cake
The best way to serve your Strawberry Three Milks Cake is chilled, as this allows the flavors to meld beautifully while maintaining a refreshing and firm texture. When plating, consider drizzling a little of the reserved tres leches mixture around the cake for an elegant presentation. You can also serve it with extra compote on the side, allowing guests to indulge as they please.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair your Strawberry Three Milks Cake with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a raspberry sorbet for an elevated dessert experience. The subtle sweetness coupled with the lusciousness of cream creates a delightful sensation. Enjoy a light coffee or herbal tea alongside the cake for a balanced after-meal treat, enhancing this dessert’s delightful flavors.
How to Store Strawberry Three Milks Cake
Proper Storage Methods
To preserve the freshness and flavors of your Strawberry Three Milks Cake, always store it in the refrigerator. Cover the cake tightly with cling wrap or keep it in an airtight container. This will not only protect it from absorbing unwanted odors but will also keep the whipped cream topping looking its best.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature straight from the fridge. If you have leftover cake, it can be kept for up to 5 days. However, due to the fresh strawberries, it is not recommended to freeze this cake, as it may change the texture of the whipped topping and fresh fruit. Instead, savor it fresh!
Tips to Make Strawberry Three Milks Cake
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Batter: While trying to combine ingredients, it’s crucial not to overmix the batter after adding the flour, as this will result in a denser cake. Aim for gentle folding for the best texture.
- Soaking Too Early: Soaking the cake while it is still warm may lead to a soggy texture. Always allow the cake to cool completely before soaking.
- Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature eggs and cream create a better emulsion and help achieve a lighter cake.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
- Quality Ingredients: Use the finest quality ingredients you can find, especially the strawberries, as they are the stars of the cake.
- Chill Thoroughly: Ensure both the cake and toppings are cold before serving for optimal flavor and presentation.
- Experiment with Flavors: Infuse your tres leches mixture with a splash of flavored extract like almond or orange for an added twist.
Variation of Strawberry Three Milks Cake
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
While this Strawberry Three Milks Cake is delicious as is, there are several fun variations to try. Consider introducing additional flavors like a splash of orange zest in the milk mixture for citrusy notes or adding a layer of chocolate ganache beneath the cream layer for chocolate lovers.
For a tropical twist, you can substitute strawberries with other fruits such as mangoes or bananas to create a stunning Tres Leches Cake with fruit flavors.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
For gluten-free options, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix. Additionally, substitutes for dairy ingredients are easy to implement; coconut creams and almond or soy milk can be used for a dairy-free delight.
FAQs
What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?
If your cake isn’t turning out as expected, check the measurements of your ingredients. The right ratios are crucial for achieving the ideal texture. If the cake springs back when lightly pressed, you’ve likely baked it perfectly. A dry cake may indicate overbaking, while too moist could be due to excess soaking.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Strawberry Three Milks Cake is the perfect make-ahead dessert. In fact, letting it sit in the fridge overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure your cake is covered well to avoid unwanted drying or absorbing strong odors from the fridge.
What can I substitute for ingredients?
Common substitutes have been detailed in earlier sections. However, you can explore creative twists—like flavoring your whipped cream with different extracts, or incorporating various fruits into the compote. Feel free to experiment based on your palate or dietary needs!
With these tips, suggestions, and detailed instructions, your Strawberry Three Milks Cake is sure to be a success. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this decadent, stunning dessert! Happy baking!
