Description
This Matcha Tres Leches Cake is a delightful fusion dessert combining the traditional Latin American tres leches cake with vibrant Japanese matcha powder. Moist and airy, the cake is soaked with a creamy matcha-infused milk mixture and topped with fluffy whipped cream dusted with extra matcha for a rich, earthy flavor. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress with a unique twist on a classic treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon culinary-grade matcha powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 5 large eggs, separated
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Milk Soak
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon matcha powder
For the Whipped Topping
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: extra matcha powder for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, culinary-grade matcha powder, and salt to ensure an even distribution of leavening and matcha flavor.
- Beat Egg Yolks: In a large bowl, beat the 5 egg yolks with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and thick, indicating air incorporation for a light cake texture.
- Add Milk and Vanilla: Stir the 1/3 cup whole milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the egg yolk mixture, blending well.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the sifted flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Whip Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, beat the 5 egg whites to soft peaks. Then gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form for volume and structure.
- Fold Egg Whites Into Batter: Gently fold the stiff egg whites into the batter in batches, preserving as much air as possible to keep the cake airy.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the completed batter into the greased baking dish and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before soaking.
- Prepare the Milk Soak: In a bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and 1 tablespoon of matcha powder until smooth and well combined.
- Soak the Cake: Using a fork, poke holes all over the cooled cake to allow the milk mixture to penetrate. Slowly pour the matcha milk soak evenly over the cake. Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully absorb the soak.
- Make the Whipped Topping: Before serving, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form for a light and creamy topping.
- Assemble and Serve: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the soaked cake. Dust with additional matcha powder if desired for a vibrant presentation and extra flavor. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- For a stronger matcha flavor, increase the matcha powder slightly in the milk soak or whipped topping.
- Use high-quality culinary-grade matcha powder for the best taste and vibrant green color.
- Ensure egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks for optimal cake lightness and height.
- Allow the cake to refrigerate long enough to fully absorb the milk soak for moistness.
- The cake can be prepared a day ahead for enhanced flavor development.