Tres Leches Cake

If you've always been told that milk does a body good but also told that cake and desserts don't, then let me introduce you to the loophole: Tres Leches Cake. Tres Leches Cake-or 3 Milks Cake-is a traditional Latin American dessert which not only packs a flavorful punch, but also helps keep your bones strong! (Take that Mom!)

It's relatively unclear as to exactly who invented this sweet, moist cake but chances are it was the Mexicans. Recipes as early as 1875 are rumored to have been started by the Mexico based Nestle Company when they placed the Tres Leches recipe on their condensed milk cans.

Regardless of who lays claim to its origin, this cake is easy and delicious, and will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 C. Flour

1 t. Baking Powder

1 Stick Butter (Unsalted, room temperature)

1 C. Sugar

5 Eggs

1 t. Vanilla

1 C. Milk

2/3 C. Sweetened Condensed Milk

2/3 C. Evaporated Milk

**Optional**

1/3 C. Frangelico, Brandy or Chambord

*

Method: Preheat to 350 degrees/Grease & Flour a 9x13 pan

1. In a small bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Whisk to combine and break up clumps.

2. In a larger bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla and beat until combined.

3. Add the flour in 3 batches, mixing between each addition. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.

4. Upon taking the cake out of the oven, use a fork or a skewer to poke 10-15 holes in the top of the cake. Allow cake to cool.

5. Combine the 3 milks and liqueur if using it. Pour over the top of the cooled cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Serve chilled with sweetened whipped cream.

Ever Wonder...

What's the difference between Evaporated & Condensed Milks?

*Evaporated milk is milk that has 60% of its water removed by evaporation.

*Condensed milk is 60% milk & 40% sugar. It is cooked until most of the water is evaporated (60%) so that what remains is the sweet, thick syrup we know and love.