Frequently Asked Questions
What is Silky Tres Leches Cake?
Silky Tres Leches Cake is a celebrated Latin American dessert that combines a light sponge cake with a sweet, creamy glaze made from three types of milk.
What are the three types of milk used in the glaze?
The milk mixture consists of sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and evaporated milk, along with light corn syrup.
How many eggs are required for the sponge cake?
The recipe requires 6 eggs, with the yolks and whites separated during preparation.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking the cake.
How long does the cake need to bake?
The cake should bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I use skim milk in the batter?
Yes, the recipe allows for either 1 1/2 cups of water or skim milk to be used in the cake batter.
Why do I need to poke holes in the cake?
Poking holes all over the cooled cake with a fork or thin straw allows the milk mixture to be absorbed completely into the sponge.
How long should the cake be refrigerated before adding the milk mixture?
The cake should be covered and refrigerated overnight to enhance the flavors before the milk mixture is added.
How is the milk mixture prepared?
Combine sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, corn syrup, and evaporated milk in a saucepan, bring to a gentle boil while stirring, and cook for 2 minutes.
Should the milk mixture be warm when poured over the cake?
Yes, the warm milk mixture should be poured slowly over the chilled cake to ensure it soaks in properly.
What flavor extracts are used in the cake batter?
The cake batter is flavored with 1 teaspoon of almond extract.
What ingredients are in the icing?
The icing is made from whipped heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, sour cream, icing sugar, and almond extract.
How do I prepare the egg whites?
Whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form, then gradually add sugar while beating continuously until stiff peaks form.
What kind of flour is used?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
What leavening agents are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses both 2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda.
How should the egg yolks be added to the mixture?
Carefully incorporate the egg yolks into the stiff egg whites one at a time, ensuring they are fully integrated.
What size baking pan is recommended?
A greased 13x9-inch baking pan should be used for this recipe.
Is there a specific way to mix the flour and liquid?
You should alternate adding the flour mixture and the liquid (water or skim milk), beginning and ending with the flour, mixing until just combined.
How long should the cake chill after the milk mixture is added?
After pouring the milk mixture, the cake should be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes before icing.
What is the unique component of the creamy topping?
The topping features a blend of whipped cream folded into a mixture of sour cream, icing sugar, and almond extract.
Does the recipe include salt?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of table salt is included in the dry ingredients.
What is the purpose of the light corn syrup?
The light corn syrup is used in the milk mixture to add sweetness and contribute to the silky texture.
How much heavy whipping cream is needed in total?
The recipe uses 2 cups for the milk mixture and an additional 1/2 cup for the icing.
When should the vanilla extract be added to the milk mixture?
The vanilla extract should be stirred in after the milk mixture has been removed from the heat.
What is the final step before serving?
Spread the creamy topping over the cake, smooth it out, and refrigerate until you are ready to serve.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 19 ingredients listed for the cake, milk soak, and icing.
Is the cake served warm or cold?
Silky Tres Leches Cake is best enjoyed chilled, as the cold temperature enhances the flavors and texture.
Can I use a different extract for the icing?
The recipe specifically calls for vanilla and almond extracts for the icing, but you can adjust flavorings to your preference.
What should the texture of the finished cake be?
The cake should have a moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture thanks to the absorption of the three milks.
Is this a good recipe for a special occasion?
Yes, its spectacular appearance and rich flavor make it a perfect centerpiece for any celebration.