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Perfect Colombian Tres Leches Graduation Cake Recipe for Large Gatherings

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A moist and tender Colombian tres leches cake perfect for large celebrations, soaked in a rich milk mixture and topped with whipped cream. Ideal for graduations, family reunions, and festive occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 5 large eggs, separated (room temperature)
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar, divided
  • ⅓ cup (80ml) whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 can (12 oz / 354ml) evaporated milk
  • 1 can (14 oz / 396g) sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional garnishes: fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries), toasted coconut flakes, cinnamon powder for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan lightly with butter and dust with flour to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, sift together 2 cups flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk the 5 egg yolks with ¾ cup sugar until pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the whole milk and vanilla extract.
  4. Gently fold the flour mixture into the yolk mixture until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay.
  5. In a clean bowl, beat the 5 egg whites to soft peaks. Gradually add the remaining ¼ cup sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
  6. Carefully fold the egg whites into the batter in thirds, preserving as much air as possible for a light, fluffy cake.
  7. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and spring back lightly when touched.
  8. Let the cake cool completely on a rack before moving to the next step.
  9. In a large bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, condensed milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using).
  10. Using a skewer or fork, poke holes all over the cooled cake—every inch or so.
  11. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to absorb. Do this in batches if needed. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  12. Beat cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
  13. Spread whipped cream gently over the soaked cake. Add fresh berries, coconut flakes, or a cinnamon dusting if desired.
  14. Serve chilled. Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.

Notes

For best results, poke holes evenly and pour the milk soak slowly to ensure full absorption. Chill the cake overnight for optimal flavor and moistness. Use a warm knife dipped in hot water for clean slicing. For dairy-free or gluten-free adaptations, substitute milks and flours accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: tres leches cake, Colombian dessert, graduation cake, moist cake, milk soak cake, whipped cream topping, large gathering dessert

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/perfect-colombian-tres-leches-graduation-cake-recipe-for-large-gatherings/