Indulge in the rich flavors of Guatemala with our heavenly Pastel de Tres Leches. This traditional dessert is a celebration of sweetness, featuring a light and airy sponge cake soaked in a delectable blend of three milks: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. Topped with a velvety smooth layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh fruit, each bite is a symphony of creamy goodness. Whether enjoyed as a delightful ending to a meal or as a treat for any occasion, our Guatemalan Pastel de Tres Leches promises to enchant your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant streets of Guatemala.

Ingredients:

For the sponge cake:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the milk mixture:

• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup heavy cream

For the whipped cream topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional:

• Ground cinnamon or fresh fruit for garnish

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

3- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.

4- Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg yolk mixture, stirring until well combined.

5- In another clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.

6- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter until just combined.

7- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

8- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9- While the cake is baking, prepare the milk mixture by combining the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream in a mixing bowl. Stir until well combined.

10- Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.

11- While the cake is still warm, poke holes all over the surface using a fork or toothpick.

12- Slowly pour the milk mixture over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in. Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

13- Before serving, prepare the whipped cream topping by beating the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

14- Spread the whipped cream over the chilled cake.

15- Optionally, sprinkle ground cinnamon over the whipped cream or decorate with fresh fruit.

16- Slice and serve the Pastel de Tres Leches chilled. Enjoy the creamy indulgence of this delightful Guatemalan dessert!

Nutritional Values :

For the Sponge Cake (per serving, assuming 12 servings):

• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 170mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38gDietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 27g
• Protein: 5g

benefits

• Flour: Provides carbohydrates for energy and small amounts of protein.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and helps regulate hydration and enzymatic activity.
• Eggs: Rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, particularly vitamin B12 and selenium.
• Sugar: Provides energy and sweetness to the cake.
• Milk: Source of calcium, protein, and vitamins such as vitamin D and vitamin B12.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor and aroma to the cake.

For the Milk Mixture (per serving, assuming 12 servings):

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 85mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20gDietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 5g

benefits

• Evaporated Milk: Rich in protein, calcium, and vitamin D, essential for bone health.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides concentrated sweetness and creaminess, along with calcium and vitamin D.
• Heavy Cream: High in fat, providing richness and creaminess to the dessert.

For the Whipped Cream Topping (per serving, assuming 12 servings):

• Calories: 80
• Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 5mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 2gDietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 0g

benefits

• Heavy Cream: Contributes richness and creaminess to the topping.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream and helps stabilize it.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor and aroma to the whipped cream.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the specific brands of ingredients used and any variations in preparation methods.