Step 3: Whip the Egg Yolks
In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with ¾ cup of sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. Add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Beat the Egg Whites
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining ¼ cup sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. The stiff egg whites are crucial for a light, airy sponge.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg yolk mixture. Then, carefully fold in the beaten egg whites. Use a spatula and fold slowly to maintain the fluffy texture. Avoid overmixing.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before moving on to the soaking step.
Step 7: Prepare the Tres Leches Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk or cream. Make sure the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Step 8: Soak the Cake
Once the cake has cooled slightly, poke holes all over the top using a fork or skewer. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to absorb evenly. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The longer it soaks, the more decadent it becomes.
Step 9: Make the Whipped Topping
In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This will be the light, airy topping for your cake.
Step 10: Assemble the Cake
Spread the whipped cream evenly over the soaked cake. Arrange fresh strawberry slices on top for a burst of color and flavor. You can also drizzle a little strawberry syrup if you like it extra sweet.
Step 11: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake with a sharp knife and serve chilled. Each bite should be moist, creamy, and lightly sweet with the perfect hint of strawberry freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Tres Leches Cake:
- Use room temperature eggs for better volume in the sponge.
- Don’t rush the soaking step — letting the milk mixture sit overnight makes it more flavorful.
- Choose ripe strawberries — they complement the sweet milk perfectly.
- Optional garnish: add mint leaves or a light dusting of cocoa powder for a fancy touch.
Strawberry Tres Leches Cake is a dessert that impresses everyone, from family dinners to special celebrations. Its combination of airy sponge, creamy milk soak, and fresh strawberries makes it irresistible. With this step-by-step guide, you can recreate this classic Latin treat right in your kitchen.
If you want, I can also make a version with a quick visual guide, showing each step in pictures — it makes it even easier to follow.
Do you want me to make that version too?
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