Pastel de Tres Leches (Three-Milk Cake) Recipe

Looking for a sweet way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo? This Pastel de Tres Leches is a beloved Latin American dessert that’s ultra-moist, light-as-air, and soaked in a dreamy blend of three milks. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for any festive gathering—just chill, top with whipped cream, and enjoy every creamy bite!

Serves: 10–12

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 5 large eggs, separated
  • 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the 3-Milk Soak:
  • 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk (or, make your own evaporated milk at home!)
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream
• For the Icing:
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 3 Tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish or line with parchment.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg yolks with 3/4 cup sugar until thick and pale yellow. Stir in milk and vanilla.
4. Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg yolk mixture until just combined.
5. In a clean non-plastic bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining 1/4 cup sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
6. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter, working in batches, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool slightly.
8. In a bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream.
9. Poke holes all over the cooled cake with a fork or skewer.
10. Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake.
11. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
12. Just before serving, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Spread over the chilled cake.
13. Optional: Sprinkle with cinnamon, and top with sliced strawberries. Slice into squares and serve cold.