Mendoza Tres Leches Cake

The Mendoza Tres Leches Cake is a delightful dessert that finds its roots in Latin American cuisine, adored for its moist texture and rich flavor. The name "Tres Leches" translates to "three milks," which is a nod to the combination of milk, evaporated milk, and condensed milk used in creating this sumptuous cake. While its precise origins are debated, this beloved cake has become a staple at celebrations throughout Argentina, particularly in the Mendoza region where local variants have given it a unique twist.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour - 1 cup
• Baking powder - 1 1/2 teaspoons
• Unsalted butter - 1/2 cup, softened
• Granulated sugar - 1 cup
• Eggs - 5 large
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• Milk - 1/3 cup
• Sweetened condensed milk - 1 can (14 ounces)
• Evaporated milk - 1 can (12 ounces)
• Heavy cream - 1 cup
• Whipped cream - for topping
• Ground cinnamon - for dusting
• Maraschino cherries - optional, for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Add the milk to the butter and egg mixture and mix until combined.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 2: Baking and Soaking

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Allow the cake to cool completely in the baking dish.
3. While the cake is cooling, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream in a bowl.
4. Once the cake is completely cool, use a fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake.
5. Spoon the milk mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring it is fully saturated.
6. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the cake to absorb the milk mixture.

Step 3: Topping and Serving

1. Remove the cake from the refrigerator and spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top.
2. Dust the top with ground cinnamon for a touch of spice.
3. Garnish with maraschino cherries if desired.
4. Slice and serve chilled.

Enjoying Your Mendoza Tres Leches Cake

This cake is best enjoyed as a chilled dessert after a hearty meal or as a sweet indulgence during the afternoon. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea to offset the sugary delight of the cake. The Mendoza Tres Leches Cake is a treat for the senses, with its soft texture, creamy essence, and subtle hints of spice. Whether for a celebration, a special gathering, or just a lovely evening dessert, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy every craving.

Let the festive flavor of Mendoza's take on the Tres Leches Cake transport you to the rustic vineyards and lively culture of Argentina with each delicious bite.

Make sure to set a timer for all parts of the preparation and baking to ensure perfect results!