Contents
Introduction
Chocolate Tres Leches is a delectable twist on the classic Mexican dessert. Known for its rich, moist texture, this cake is soaked in three types of milk, resulting in a luscious flavor that chocolate lovers will adore. This version enhances the traditional recipe by incorporating chocolate, making it an indulgent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or just because!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the cake:
– All-purpose flour: 1 cup
– Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1/3 cup
– Baking powder: 1 ½ teaspoons
– Baking soda: ½ teaspoon
– Salt: ¼ teaspoon
– Unsalted butter: ½ cup
– Granulated sugar: 1 cup
– Eggs: 3 large
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
– Buttermilk: 1 cup
For the milk soak:
– Sweetened condensed milk: 1 cup
– Evaporated milk: 1 cup
– Whole milk: 1 cup
– Unsweetened cocoa powder: 2 tablespoons
For the whipped cream topping:
– Heavy cream: 1 cup
– Powdered sugar: 2 tablespoons
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
– Shaved chocolate or cocoa powder: for garnish
Prep Time
The preparation time for Chocolate Tres Leches is approximately 20 minutes. This includes the time taken to mix the ingredients for the cake and the milk soak.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 30 minutes. The total time, including cooling and soaking, can take around 2 hours. This recipe yields a delightful cake that serves approximately 8 to 10 people, making it an excellent choice for gatherings and celebrations.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until fully combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes. Once done, let it cool completely.
Step 2: Create the Tres Leches Mixture
In a bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk. Whisk together until smooth and well incorporated. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Once the chocolate cake is completely cooled, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface. Slowly pour the tres leches mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Allow the cake to soak for at least one hour in the refrigerator.
Step 4: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping
In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form. Add vanilla extract and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
Step 5: Finish the Cake
Once the cake has soaked, spread the whipped cream topping evenly over the surface. Optionally, you can garnish with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder.
Step 6: Serve
Cut the cake into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your chocolate tres leches cake!
Notes
Note 1:
Make sure to let the cake cool completely before adding the tres leches mixture to prevent it from becoming too mushy.
Note 2:
This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together during refrigeration.
Note 3:
Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the whipped cream topping by adding more or less powdered sugar based on your preference.
Cook techniques
Baking the Cake
To achieve a perfect chocolate cake for your tres leches, ensure your oven is preheated to the right temperature. Use good quality cocoa powder for rich flavor, and be careful not to overmix your batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
Preparing the Leches Mixture
The tres leches part of the cake consists of three types of milk. Combine sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk in a bowl. Whisk them together until well blended to ensure even soaking into the cake.
Soaking the Cake
Once the cake is baked and cooled, carefully poke holes all over the top using a fork. Slowly pour the leches mixture over the cake to allow it to fully absorb the flavors. Let it sit for a while to soak properly.
Making the Whipped Cream Topping
For a light topping, use heavy cream and powdered sugar. Whip the mixture until it reaches soft peaks, ensuring not to overbeat it so it stays creamy. Spread it generously over the soaked cake for a delicious finish.
Chilling the Cake
After assembling the cake with the whipped cream, refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to set, making it even more enjoyable when served.
FAQ
Can I use different types of milk?
Yes, while traditional tres leches calls for sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk, you can experiment with alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk for a different flavor profile.
How long can I store the tres leches cake?
The tres leches cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it is covered to keep it fresh.
Is it possible to make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and soak it with the leches mixture. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
Can I add flavors to the whipped cream?
Yes, you can enhance the whipped cream by adding vanilla extract, cocoa powder, or even a splash of coffee for added depth of flavor.
What should I do if my cake is too dry?
If your cake turns out dry, you can drizzle a bit more of the leches mixture over the top right before serving to add moisture and flavor.
Conclusion
The chocolate tres leches is a delightful twist on the traditional Tres Leches cake, combining the richness of chocolate with the classic soaked cake technique. Its moist texture and luxurious flavor make it a perfect dessert for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings. Once you master this recipe, feel free to explore variations and toppings to create your unique version of this beloved dessert.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Mousse
Pair your chocolate tres leches with a light and airy chocolate mousse for a contrast in texture, creating a sophisticated dessert experience.
Fruit Toppings
Enhance your tres leches cake by adding fresh fruits such as berries, bananas, or mangoes on top for a refreshing touch that complements the richness of the cake.
Espresso Flavored Whipped Cream
For coffee lovers, a dollop of espresso-infused whipped cream can elevate your chocolate tres leches, adding an aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
Coconut Flan
Serve the chocolate tres leches alongside a silky coconut flan for an exotic dessert duo, combining rich flavors and creamy textures.
Nutty Crunch Topping
Try adding a crunchy topping made from chopped nuts and caramel for an additional layer of flavor and texture, contrasting the moistness of the cake.
Ice Cream Sandwich
Transform slices of chocolate tres leches into an indulgent ice cream sandwich, using your favorite flavor of ice cream to cool down the rich chocolate experience.
