tres leches cake

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 6 cups cold water
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for soaking)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Beat in softened butter until combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes.
7. Poke holes all over the cake using a fork or skewer (about 1 inch apart).
8. In a large bowl, whisk together cold milk, heavy cream, and evaporated milk.
9. Pour milk mixture over the cake, making sure it soaks completely. Let sit for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cake to absorb the milk.
10. Just before serving, sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, use full-fat milk and heavy cream.
• Do not overbake the cake, as it needs to stay moist.
• The longer the cake sits in the milk mixture, the more flavorful it will become. Overnight is ideal.
• Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream.
• A serrated knife is best for cutting the cake to prevent crumbling.