Introduction
The classic Tres Leches cake—a sponge soaked in three types of milk—is a beloved dessert across Latin America, known for its incredible moisture and rich, creamy flavor. However, making a full sheet cake can be time-consuming. Introducing the Tres Leches Bowl Cake: a single-serving delight that captures all the flavor and texture of the original, prepared in minutes using a microwave. This recipe is perfect for satisfying a sudden craving or creating an easy, personalized dessert for guests. It’s quick, simple, and delivers maximum decadence with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- **For the Cake Base:**
- 60g (1/2 cup) All-Purpose Flour
- 30g (2 tablespoons) Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1 large Egg
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) Whole Milk
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- **For the Three Milk Soak (Leches):**
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) Evaporated Milk
- 30ml (2 tablespoons) Heavy Cream (or whole milk)
- **For the Topping:**
- 60ml (1/4 cup) Heavy Whipping Cream (cold)
- 1 teaspoon Powdered Sugar
- Pinch of Ground Cinnamon (for garnish)
Step-by-step Preparation
- **Mix the Dry Ingredients:** In a small mixing bowl or directly in your serving bowl (ensure it is microwave-safe and holds about 12-16 oz / 350-475 ml), whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and baking powder until well combined.
- **Add the Wet Ingredients:** Add the egg, whole milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Whisk thoroughly until a smooth batter forms, ensuring there are no pockets of dry flour at the bottom. *Tip: Do not overmix; just combine until smooth.*
- **Microwave the Cake:** Place the bowl in the microwave and cook on high power for 60 to 90 seconds. The cake is done when the top looks set and springs back lightly when touched. If it still looks wet, microwave in 10-second intervals. *Tip: Microwave power varies greatly; start low and check frequently to prevent drying out.*
- **Prepare the Milk Soak:** While the cake cools slightly, combine the condensed milk, evaporated milk, and the 30ml of heavy cream in a small measuring cup or jar. Stir until fully blended.
- **Soak the Cake:** Use a fork or a skewer to poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake. Slowly pour the prepared three-milk mixture evenly over the entire cake surface. The cake will absorb the milk quickly.
- **Chill:** Cover the bowl (or transfer the cake to a clean bowl) and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 2 hours, to allow the milk to fully penetrate the cake and chill thoroughly.
- **Whip the Topping:** Just before serving, combine the cold heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar in a separate bowl. Beat using a hand mixer or whisk until stiff peaks form.
- **Serve:** Top the chilled, soaked cake generously with the whipped cream and finish with a light dusting of ground cinnamon or fresh berries.
Nutritional Information
Due to its generous use of dairy and sugar, the Tres Leches Bowl Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert. A single serving (approximately 450–550 calories, depending on the amount of topping) provides significant calcium and Vitamin D from the milk products. While high in saturated fat and sugar, this treat is designed for occasional enjoyment. To slightly reduce the calorie count, you can substitute the whipped cream topping with Greek yogurt or a lighter whipped topping.
Storage
Because this dessert is saturated with dairy, it must be stored in the refrigerator. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the cake from drying out or absorbing refrigerator odors. It is best consumed within 2 to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended as the sponge cake will become grainy upon thawing.
Conclusion
This microwave Tres Leches Bowl Cake proves that luxury doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. The result is a profoundly moist, sweet, and comforting dessert ready in under 10 minutes of active prep time. For a delightful variation, try adding a tablespoon of shredded coconut to the batter, or swirl a teaspoon of dulce de leche into the whipped cream topping. Serve alongside a strong cup of coffee or a dusting of shaved dark chocolate for the perfect finish.