Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

A Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of traditional tres leches cake with the nutty flavor of toasted pecans. This moist and creamy treat is perfect for various occasions, from family gatherings to festive celebrations. With its unique twist on a classic recipe, this cake stands out for its buttery taste and satisfying texture, making it a must-try for any dessert lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the traditional tres leches cake, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of toasted pecans and three types of milk creates a deliciously rich and indulgent flavor.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, parties, or as a sweet treat during the week, this cake fits any occasion.
• Stunning Presentation: Topped with whipped cream and additional pecans, this cake is visually appealing and sure to impress guests.
• Make Ahead Option: It’s ideal for preparing in advance since it tastes even better after soaking overnight.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Whisk
• Fork or skewer

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures that egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks quickly and easily, which is crucial for a fluffy cake texture.
• Baking dish: A standard 9×13 inch baking dish is essential for even baking and easy serving of your Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake.

Ingredients

A rich, moist tres leches cake infused with buttery toasted pecans, soaked in a creamy three-milk mixture, topped with luscious whipped cream and extra pecans for delightful texture and flavor.

For the Cake

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 5 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Milk Mixture

• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Whipped Cream Topping

• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Additional toasted pecans for garnish

How to Make Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

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 Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt

Set this mixture aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Egg Yolks and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of sugar until pale and fluffy. Stir in:
– Whole milk
– Vanilla extract
– Melted butter

Gradually fold in the flour mixture until just combined.

Step 4: Whip Egg Whites

In a separate clean bowl:
1. Beat egg whites until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.

Step 5: Combine Batters

Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter until just combined. Stir in:
– Toasted pecans

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare Milk Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together:
– Evaporated milk
– Sweetened condensed milk
– Whole milk
– Melted butter

Step 8: Soak the Cake

Once cooled, poke holes all over the surface using a fork or skewer. Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.

Step 9: Make Whipped Cream Topping

To prepare your topping:
1. In a bowl, whip together heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread whipped cream evenly over your soaked cake.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Top with additional toasted pecans before serving chilled. Enjoy every bite of your Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake!

How to Serve Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

Serving Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake is all about presentation and pairing. This delightful dessert can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance its flavors and textures. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Consider topping the cake with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve a slice of this cake with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The cold temperature and creamy texture add an extra layer of indulgence.

Drizzled Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each slice adds richness and a sweet contrast to the buttery flavors in the cake.

Whipped Cream Topping

• For an extra fluffy texture, add more whipped cream on top just before serving. This makes each bite even creamier and more enjoyable.

Chopped Nuts for Crunch

• Sprinkle additional toasted pecans on top for a crunchy finish. This enhances both the flavor and texture, making it more enticing.

How to Perfect Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

Perfecting Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Use these suggestions to ensure your cake is moist, flavorful, and visually appealing.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and milk to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter that rises well.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the egg whites with the batter, fold gently. Overmixing can deflate the air you’ve incorporated, leading to a denser cake.

• Soak Well: Make sure to allow ample time for soaking in the milk mixture. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours; overnight is best for full flavor absorption.

• Chill Before Serving: Serve the cake chilled for a refreshing dessert experience. This enhances its creamy texture and makes it even more enjoyable.

• Garnish Creatively: Get creative with garnishes like mint leaves or edible flowers for an elegant touch that elevates your dessert presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this rich dessert well.

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with citrus fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside the sweetness of the cake.

2. Chilled Lemonade: The tartness of chilled lemonade provides a refreshing contrast against the creamy flavors of the tres leches cake.

3. Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso pairs nicely, balancing out the sweetness while enhancing the dessert’s rich flavors.

4. Chocolate Mousse: A small serving of chocolate mousse creates a luxurious combination that chocolate lovers will appreciate.

5. Pineapple Sorbet: The coolness and acidity from pineapple sorbet cleanse the palate beautifully after enjoying this heavy dessert.

6. Shortbread Cookies: Lightly sweet shortbread cookies serve as a crunchy accompaniment that complements the soft texture of the cake without overpowering it.

7. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats resonate well with the nutty flavor profile, adding another dimension to your dessert table.

8. Creamy Coleslaw: A small portion of creamy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness from your delicious tres leches cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.

• Not separating eggs properly: Ensure the egg whites and yolks are completely separated. Any yolk in the whites can prevent them from whipping up properly.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cake to cool completely before soaking is crucial. If it’s too warm, it won’t absorb the milk mixture well, leading to a soggy texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Gently fold the egg whites into the batter. Overmixing can deflate the air you’ve whipped into them, resulting in a denser cake.
• Forgetting to toast pecans: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds crunch. Don’t skip this step; it makes a noticeable difference in taste.
• Not letting it soak long enough: For optimal flavor, let the cake soak in the milk mixture for at least four hours, but overnight is even better.
• Using low-fat milk: Stick with whole milk or cream for a richer taste. Low-fat options won’t provide the creamy texture that defines this dessert.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• The cake can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake.

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

You can certainly substitute other nuts like walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just ensure they are toasted for maximum flavor.

How long should I let the cake soak?

Letting your Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake soak overnight is ideal. However, at least four hours will give you good results.

What if I don’t have heavy whipping cream?

If you don’t have heavy whipping cream, you can use chilled coconut cream as an alternative for a dairy-free option.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. This will help maintain the texture of your Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake.

Final Thoughts

Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake is not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different flavors or toppings according to your preferences. This moist dessert is perfect for gatherings and celebrations. Try making it today!

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Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 12 1x

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Description

Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake is a luscious twist on the classic tres leches dessert, combining moist cake layers with a creamy milk mixture infused with toasted pecans. This delightful treat offers a rich and buttery flavor that will tantalize your taste buds, making it perfect for any celebration or family gathering. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and additional pecans, this cake not only tastes heavenly but also looks stunning on any dessert table. Ideal for make-ahead preparations, it becomes even more flavorful after soaking overnight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 5 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Additional toasted pecans for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of sugar until pale and fluffy. Stir in whole milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Gradually fold in the flour mixture until just combined.
4. In a separate clean bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
5. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter until just combined. Stir in toasted pecans.
6. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely.
7. In a large bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and melted butter.
8. Once cooled, poke holes all over the surface using a fork or skewer. Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
9. To prepare your topping, whip together heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread whipped cream evenly over your soaked cake.
10. Top with additional toasted pecans before serving chilled.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Latin American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 120mg