Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Savor the rich and creamy delight of Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake, a perfect fusion of traditional Latin flavors and warm, nutty goodness. This decadent dessert features a soft sponge cake soaked in a sweet three-milk mixture and topped with luscious butter pecan icing, making it an irresistible centerpiece for your Thanksgiving dessert table. Each bite melts in your mouth, bringing warmth and comfort to your holiday celebrations.
Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake is a delightful treat that combines the beloved tradition of tres leches with the warm, nutty flavor of butter pecans. It's perfect for any gathering, especially during the holiday season.
The Origin of Tres Leches Cake
Tres Leches Cake, or 'three milks cake', originated in Latin America, where it's enjoyed at various celebrations. Its unique name comes from the addition of three types of milk: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk. This cake stands out for its moist texture and rich flavor, making it a beloved dessert across cultures. The traditional recipe has evolved over time, incorporating different flavors, but the essence remains a decadent treat that satisfies the palate and brings a sense of nostalgia.
This Butter Pecan variation adds a delightful twist to the classic Tres Leches Cake, blending its authentic creaminess with the warm, nutty flavor of butter pecans. The cake's rich history is beautifully complemented by the buttery icing, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors that elevate any festive occasion.
Perfect Pairings for Your Dessert Table
A Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake makes an excellent centerpiece at holiday gatherings and celebrations. Its rich flavors pair seamlessly with a variety of beverages, enhancing the overall dining experience. Consider serving it alongside a warm cup of spiced chai or a refreshing glass of horchata, both of which bring out the cake's nutty undertones.
Additionally, for those looking to explore diverse flavors, adding sides such as whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can create a delightful contrast. These pairings not only complement the cake but also allow guests to personalize their dessert experience, making each bite a unique indulgence.
Storing and Serving Tips
Storing your Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake properly can greatly enhance its flavor and texture. After soaking the cake, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This cake can be kept for up to three days, preserving its moisture and delectable taste. As it sits, the flavors meld beautifully, often making it even better the next day.
When it’s time to serve, remember to let the cake sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This will enhance the flavors and allow the icing to soften slightly, providing a creamy richness with every slice. Garnishing with extra toasted pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate presentation and reflect the warm, cozy flavors of this special dessert.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before starting the recipe:
Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Tres Leches Mixture
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/3 cup whole milk
Butter Pecan Icing
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Make sure to have everything ready before you begin!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake:
Prepare the Cake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk until well blended. Pour batter into a greased cake pan.
Bake and Soak
Bake for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool. Once cooled, poke holes all over the cake with a fork.
In a bowl, mix together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk. Pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Make the Icing
In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Stir in vanilla and fold in the toasted pecans. Spread the icing over the soaked cake before serving.
Enjoy your Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake!
FAQs About Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the cake to soak up the milk mixture thoroughly, enhancing its flavor and texture. Just cover it well and refrigerate until you're ready to serve.
Q: What can I substitute for pecans? A: If you have nut allergies or simply prefer a different flavor, you can substitute pecans with crushed walnuts or leave them out altogether for a smooth buttercream icing.
Tips for Success
To achieve the ideal texture, be sure to poke enough holes in the cake after baking, allowing that luscious three-milk mixture to soak in easily. This step is crucial; too few holes will prevent the cake from absorbing the milk, leading to a drier dessert.
For the butter pecan icing, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth consistency. If the icing seems too thick, a splash of milk can help you reach the desired spreadability without compromising the creamy texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this cake a day in advance?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.
→ What can I substitute for the pecans?
You can use walnuts or omit the nuts for a nut-free version.
Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake
Savor the rich and creamy delight of Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake, a perfect fusion of traditional Latin flavors and warm, nutty goodness. This decadent dessert features a soft sponge cake soaked in a sweet three-milk mixture and topped with luscious butter pecan icing, making it an irresistible centerpiece for your Thanksgiving dessert table. Each bite melts in your mouth, bringing warmth and comfort to your holiday celebrations.
Created by: Mario
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Tres Leches Mixture
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/3 cup whole milk
Butter Pecan Icing
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk until well blended. Pour batter into a greased cake pan.
Bake for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool. Once cooled, poke holes all over the cake with a fork.
In a bowl, mix together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk. Pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Stir in vanilla and fold in the toasted pecans. Spread the icing over the soaked cake before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 6g