Coffee Tres Leches

Coffee Tres Leches, a delightful twist on the classic Latin American dessert, is a celebration of flavors and textures. This cake is soaked in a delicious mixture of three milks and enriched with a rich coffee flavor, making it the perfect treat for coffee lovers. With its light, airy sponge and rich creamy topping, this dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also delivers a comforting cup of coffee in every bite. Imagine serving this at your next gathering; it’s bound to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

The allure of Coffee Tres Leches lies in its unique flavor profile and decadent texture. Here are a few reasons why this dessert will become a staple in your baking repertoire:

• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of three types of milk ensures that the cake remains incredibly moist and flavorful.
• Versatile: You can enjoy it plain or dress it up with a variety of toppings like chocolate curls or fruit.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday celebration, or just a treat for yourself, this dessert fits every occasion.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll find that making Coffee Tres Leches is a breeze.

Your Shopping Guide

Before diving into the kitchen, let’s gather the necessary ingredients. Here’s your shopping list:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 6 large eggs (separated, at room temperature)
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1/2 cup strong coffee (cooled)
• 2 cups heavy cream (for topping)
• 3 tablespoons confectioners sugar
• 1 tablespoon Kahlua (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for topping)
• Chocolate curls (for garnish)

Prep & Cook Tools

Gather these essential tools to streamline your baking process:

• Mixing Bowls: A set of mixing bowls for combining ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer to whip the egg whites and cream.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: For baking the cake.
• Whisk: To ensure your batter is smooth and well combined.
• Spatula: For folding in ingredients and spreading frosting.

From Start to Finish: Coffee Tres Leches

Follow these steps to create a luscious Coffee Tres Leches that will leave your taste buds dancing:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and kosher salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Whip the Egg Yolks

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg yolks and 1 cup of sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This should take about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Milk and Vanilla

Slowly mix in the milk and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 6: Beat the Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.

Step 7: Fold in Egg Whites

Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate the mixture.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Prepare the Milk Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and cooled coffee until smooth.

Step 10: Soak the Cake

Once the cake is done baking, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, poke holes all over the surface with a fork and slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in.

Step 11: Make the Topping

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, confectioners sugar, optional Kahlua, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Step 12: Frost the Cake

Spread the whipped cream topping evenly over the soaked cake. Garnish with chocolate curls for an elegant finish.

Step 13: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to tweak the recipe or accommodate dietary preferences, consider these substitutions:

• Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.
• Almond Milk or Oat Milk: Use these alternatives in place of regular milk for a dairy-free option.
• Decaf Coffee: If you want to enjoy the flavors without the caffeine, opt for decaffeinated coffee.
• Coconut Cream: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical twist.

Steer Clear of These

When making Coffee Tres Leches, keep in mind:

• Do not overmix the batter after adding the egg whites, as this will deflate the cake.
• Avoid using instant coffee in the cake; using strong brewed coffee will impart a richer flavor.
• Do not skip the chilling step; the flavors develop beautifully as the cake sits in the refrigerator.
• Avoid using low-fat or non-fat versions of the milks, as they will not provide the same richness.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you find yourself with leftover Coffee Tres Leches, here’s how to handle it:

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to improve as the cake sits, making it even more delicious the next day. If you plan to make the cake in advance, it can be prepared a day ahead, soaked, and topped just before serving for optimal freshness.

Ask the Chef

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Coffee Tres Leches actually tastes better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld together. Just make sure to top it with whipped cream shortly before serving for the best texture.

Is there a way to make this cake less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness, you can cut back on the sugar in both the cake batter and the whipped cream topping. You may also want to use unsweetened cocoa powder for a more balanced flavor.

Can I freeze Coffee Tres Leches?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the unsoaked cake for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before soaking and serving.

What can I serve with Coffee Tres Leches?

This dessert pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. A drizzle of chocolate sauce can also elevate the presentation and taste.

What to Make After This

If you loved making Coffee Tres Leches, try these delightful desserts next:

• Classic Tres Leches Cake
• Chocolate Lava Cake
• Flan de Leche
• Coffee Panna Cotta

Final Bite

Coffee Tres Leches is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. Each forkful delivers a delightful balance of sweetness, creaminess, and rich coffee flavor that will transport you to a cozy café in no time. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this coffee-infused delight! Enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade Coffee Tres Leches.