Three Milks Cake
Imagine a cake so moist and decadent that it practically melts in your mouth—this is the magic of the Three Milks Cake! Originating from Latin America, this creamy delight, soaked in a mixture of three different milks, will transport you to dessert heaven with just one bite. Fun fact: “Tres Leches” translates to “three milks,” depicting the unique blend of sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream that gives it its signature flavor and texture. What makes this cake particularly special is how simple it is to prepare—ideal for family gatherings or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat. Just like our popular Chocolate Lava Cake, the Three Milks Cake offers a stunning presentation with an equally satisfying taste, making it a perfect centerpiece for any table. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready for a baking adventure that’s sure to please everyone!
What is Three Milks Cake?
So, why the quirky name “Three Milks Cake”? Well, you guessed it—it’s all about the milk! Imagine a cake that basks in a luscious bath of three different types of milk after it comes out of the oven. Sounds ridiculous? Maybe a bit! But as the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this cake is a surefire way to win hearts! Legend has it that the cake was invented to make use of leftover milk by soaking a sponge cake to create a moist and irresistible dessert. It’s no wonder people can’t resist this creamy indulgence. So why not dive into this delightful recipe and treat your loved ones to a slice of heaven?
Why You’ll Love This Three Milks Cake:
Three Milks Cake is beloved for many reasons. First and foremost, its main highlight is the unparalleled moisture level; it’s like a sponge cake that drinks up all the creaminess and flavor! Second, making this cake at home is cost-effective compared to purchasing a gourmet version from a bakery. Finally, you can elevate it with delightful toppings like fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and a dusting of cinnamon, which add a burst of flavor and present a gorgeous visual appeal. If you’ve enjoyed our Tres Leches Cupcakes, you’ll definitely want to add this cake to your recipe collection. So don’t hesitate—give it a try and enjoy the sweet rewards!
How to Make Three Milks Cake:
Quick Overview
Preparing Three Milks Cake is uncomplicated and fun! This cake is not just moist but packed with flavors from the three different milks that make the dish truly special. With a prep time of approximately 30 minutes and a bake time of 25 minutes, you can whip this up in no time.
Key Ingredients for Three Milks Cake:
- For the Dough:
- 180 g wheat flour (Type 405)
- 40 g cornstarch
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 6 eggs (size M)
- 180 g sugar
- 1 pack vanilla sugar
- 80 g butter
- 40 ml milk
- For the Potion:
- 300 ml sweetened condensed milk
- 200 ml evaporated milk
- 100 ml milk
- 2 tbsp rum (optional)
- For the Topping:
- 400 g cream
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 pack of cream stiffener
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 250 g fresh strawberries
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (160 degrees if using a fan oven). Line a high-sided tray (25 x 35 cm) with baking paper. - Prepare the Dough:
In a bowl, mix together the wheat flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and pinch of salt. Set aside. - Beat the Eggs:
In a metal bowl over a lukewarm water bath, beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla sugar with a hand mixer until the sugar dissolves. Continue whipping for about 10 minutes until you have stable egg foam. - Combine Mixtures:
Sift the flour mixture over the egg foam and gently fold it in. Melt the butter and fold it with the milk into the mixture. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 25 minutes. - Make the Soaking Liquid:
In a pot, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, regular milk, and rum. Bring to a brief boil. - Assemble the Cake:
Let the sponge cake cool slightly, but while it’s warm, poke holes all over the surface using a fork or wooden stick. Pour the soaking liquid generously over the cake and let it cool completely. - Prepare the Topping:
Whip the cream with sugar, cream stiffener, and cinnamon until stiff peaks form. Spread it over the cooled cake and top with fresh strawberries.
What to Serve Three Milks Cake With:
This delightful cake pairs wonderfully with hot beverages like coffee or tea, making it perfect for an afternoon treat. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit or scoop together with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert combination. Or enjoy it plain while sipping on a refreshing mint lemonade—it’s the ultimate summer dessert!
Top Tips for Perfecting Three Milks Cake:
- Ingredient Quality Matters: Use high-quality milks for the best taste. The brands of sweetened and evaporated milk can make a difference.
- Don’t Rush the Soaking: Allow the cake to soak for adequate time (a few hours or overnight) for maximum flavor absorption.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings; add nuts, chocolate shavings, or your favorite fruits for personalization.
- Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when mixing the batter to keep your cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftovers of your Three Milks Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The cake can also be frozen but ensure it’s wrapped well to avoid frostbite. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply let it thaw in the fridge overnight rather than microwaving it, which can change its texture.
Now that you know all the ins and outs of making this incredible Three Milks Cake, it’s time to get baking! You won’t regret treating yourself and your loved ones to this charming dessert. Enjoy every creamy, dreamy bite!

Three Milks Cake
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 180 g wheat flour Type 405
- 40 g cornstarch
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 6 eggs size M
- 180 g sugar
- 1 pack vanilla sugar
- 80 g butter
- 40 ml milk
- For the Potion:
- 300 ml sweetened condensed milk
- 200 ml evaporated milk
- 100 ml milk
- 2 tbsp rum optional
- For the Topping:
- 400 g cream
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 pack of cream stiffener
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 250 g fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (160 degrees if using a fan oven). Line a high-sided tray (25 x 35 cm) with baking paper.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a bowl, mix together the wheat flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and pinch of salt. Set aside.
- Beat the Eggs:
- In a metal bowl over a lukewarm water bath, beat the eggs, sugar, and vanilla sugar with a hand mixer until the sugar dissolves. Continue whipping for about 10 minutes until you have stable egg foam.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Sift the flour mixture over the egg foam and gently fold it in. Melt the butter and fold it with the milk into the mixture. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 25 minutes.
- Make the Soaking Liquid:
- In a pot, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, regular milk, and rum. Bring to a brief boil.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Let the sponge cake cool slightly, but while it’s warm, poke holes all over the surface using a fork or wooden stick. Pour the soaking liquid generously over the cake and let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Topping:
- Whip the cream with sugar, cream stiffener, and cinnamon until stiff peaks form. Spread it over the cooled cake and top with fresh strawberries.
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