Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake is a delightful dessert that combines a rich, moist cake with the nutty flavor of toasted pecans. This unique treat is perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or even just a sweet ending to a cozy dinner at home. The combination of three types of milk soaking into the cake creates an irresistible texture and flavor profile that will impress anyone who tries it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The buttery pecans enhance the traditional tres leches cake, adding depth and richness.
• Moist and Creamy: Soaked in a three-milk mixture, this cake remains incredibly moist while maintaining its structure.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or casual get-togethers, it fits any occasion beautifully.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can create this gourmet dessert without stress.
• Stunning Presentation: Topped with whipped cream and extra pecans, it looks as good as it tastes!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Preparing your kitchen with the right equipment makes all the difference when baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Fork or skewer

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when beating egg whites and cream for maximum fluffiness.
• Mixing bowls: Keeps ingredients organized and allows for easy mixing of batter components.

Ingredients

To make Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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 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 ensure easy removal of your cake once baked.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Mix Egg Yolks

In a large bowl:
1. Beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until pale and fluffy.
2. Stir in the whole milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Gradually fold in the flour mixture until just blended.

Step 4: Beat Egg Whites

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

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk batter until just combined. Stir in the toasted pecans carefully to maintain airiness in the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

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

Step 7: Make Milk Mixture

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and melted butter until smooth.

Step 8: Soak the Cake

Once cooled:
1. Poke holes all over the surface using a fork or skewer.
2. Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake so that it absorbs all that creamy goodness.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.

Step 9: Prepare Topping

In another bowl:
1. Beat heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread whipped cream evenly over soaked cake after chilling.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Finish by garnishing with additional toasted pecans on top. Chill again briefly if desired before serving chilled to enjoy every rich bite!

How to Serve Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

Serving Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake is a delightful experience, as this moist and creamy dessert can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance the flavors and presentation of this rich cake.

Individual Slices

• Serve each guest a slice of cake on a dessert plate for a personal touch. This allows everyone to enjoy their own portion of this delicious treat.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Add a handful of fresh berries such as strawberries or raspberries on top of each slice. The tartness balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce over the whipped cream adds an extra layer of flavor. This sweet addition complements the buttery pecans perfectly.

Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold and creamy texture contrasts nicely with the soaked cake, creating a delightful combination.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• For an elegant touch, garnish the slice with fresh mint leaves. This not only adds color but also provides a refreshing aroma.

Served in Dessert Cups

• For a fun twist, cut the cake into cubes and layer it in dessert cups with whipped cream and toasted pecans. This is perfect for parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

Perfecting your Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake takes some attention to detail, but these tips will help you create a stunning and delicious dessert.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and milk, are at room temperature. This helps achieve better mixing and fluffiness in your cake.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the egg whites with the batter, gently fold them in until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture rather than a light and fluffy cake.
• Soak Overnight: For maximum flavor and moisture, let the cake soak in the milk mixture overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the cake to absorb all those rich flavors fully.
• Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks: When preparing the topping, make sure to whip your cream until it reaches stiff peaks. This ensures it holds its shape when spread over the cake.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to your dessert table.
2. Chocolate Mousse
   Rich chocolate mousse offers a decadent contrast that many chocolate lovers will appreciate alongside this creamy cake.
3. Coconut Flan
   Smooth coconut flan provides an additional layer of sweetness that harmonizes well with butter pecan flavors.
4. Spiced Chai Tea
   A warm cup of spiced chai tea enhances the overall experience with its aromatic spices, making for a cozy pairing.
5. Lemon Sorbet
   The tartness of lemon sorbet cleanses the palate while adding a refreshing note between bites of sweet cake.
6. Almond Biscotti
   Crunchy almond biscotti offers texture contrast and is perfect for dipping into coffee or tea served alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the perfect Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the egg white step – Failing to beat the egg whites can result in a denser cake. Ensure you whip them until stiff peaks form for a light texture.
• Not toasting the pecans – Raw pecans lack flavor. Toast them to enhance their nuttiness and add depth to your cake.
• Rushing the soaking process – If you remove the cake too soon from the refrigerator, it may not absorb enough milk mixture. Let it soak for at least four hours, preferably overnight.
• Using cold ingredients – Cold eggs or milk can affect how well they combine. Bring all ingredients to room temperature before starting your recipe.
• Ignoring the cooling time – Pouring the milk mixture on a warm cake will lead to excess moisture. Allow your cake to cool completely before soaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep any leftover whipped cream separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe plate; heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds at a time until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Place a slice in a non-stick pan over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake:

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

You can definitely substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just make sure to toast them beforehand.

How long does Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake last?

When stored properly in the fridge, it lasts up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake is perfect for making ahead. The flavors develop nicely when soaked overnight.

What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, use whipped coconut cream or whipped topping alternatives.

Final Thoughts

The Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake is a delightful dessert that offers rich flavors and textures. Its creamy layers and toasted pecans make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding seasonal fruits or experimenting with different nut toppings. Enjoy making this delicious treat!

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Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake, a decadent twist on the classic tres leches dessert. This rich and moist cake is infused with the nutty flavor of toasted pecans and soaked in a luscious blend of three types of milk, creating an irresistible texture that will leave your taste buds craving more. Perfect for celebrations or cozy family gatherings, this cake is topped with a fluffy whipped cream layer and garnished with additional pecans, making it not only delicious but visually stunning as well. With simple preparation steps, this treat is easy to whip up and sure to impress your guests.

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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) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl; set aside.
3. Beat egg yolks with sugar until fluffy; mix in milk, vanilla, and melted butter.
4. Fold in dry ingredients then gently fold in beaten egg whites until combined.
5. Add toasted pecans and pour into the baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool completely, then poke holes in the cake and pour over the milk mixture (evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk).
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. Whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla; spread over chilled cake and garnish with pecans.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Latin American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 27g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 80mg