Name: Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 525 min
Ingredients: 5 large eggs; 3/4 cup white sugar; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/3 cups cake flour; 1/8 tsp salt; 1 tsp baking powder; 2 tbsp high-quality culinary or ceremonial grade matcha powder; 1 cup milk; 1 can evaporated milk; 1 can condensed milk; 2 tsp matcha powder mixed in 1/4 cup hot water; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup strawberry jam; 1/4 cup icing sugar; Matcha powder (for topping); diced strawberries (for topping)

Introduction to Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake

What is Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake?

Strawberry matcha tres leches cake is an innovative dessert that beautifully marries traditional Latin American flavors with the distinct taste of Japanese matcha. Imagine a fluffy sponge cake soaked in a harmonious blend of three milks—traditional tres leches incarnate, but with a twist of vibrant green matcha! This delightful fusion not only offers a visual feast but also bursts with unique flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Beginning with a light and airy matcha sponge, this cake is soaked in a creamy mixture of evaporated milk, condensed milk, and matcha, ensuring every bite is luxuriously moist. Topped with a light strawberry whipped cream, it's a dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes.

This cake is perfect for gatherings or simply to indulge that sweet craving. Feeling adventurous? You can explore more about the nutritional benefits of matcha on resources like Healthline and get tips on picking the best strawberries from The Spruce Eats.

Trust me; once you dive into this delicious dessert, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t tried it sooner!

Ingredients for Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake

Creating the perfect strawberry matcha tres leches cake starts with gathering a few essential ingredients. Let's break them down to make your shopping trip a breeze!

Essential Ingredients for the Matcha Sponge

To make the cake’s light and airy texture, you’ll need:

5 large eggs
¾ cup white sugar
½ cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ⅓ cups cake flour
⅛ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoon high-quality culinary or ceremonial grade matcha powder

Using quality matcha really elevates the flavor. Brands like Matcha Maiden are reputable options, ensuring you get the best taste possible.

Ingredients for the Matcha Milk Mixture

This part is crucial for soaking the cake. You’ll need:

1 cup milk
1 can evaporated milk
1 can condensed milk
2 teaspoon matcha powder mixed in ¼ cup hot water

The combination of these milks provides that classic tres leches richness, while the matcha adds a distinct twist.

Components for the Strawberry Whipped Cream

Finally, to crown your masterpiece, gather:

2 cups heavy cream
½ cup strawberry jam
¼ cup icing sugar
Optional: matcha powder and diced strawberries for topping

This fluffy and fruity topping is what turns this cake into a showstopper! The addition of freshly diced strawberries brings a delightful freshness.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re on your way to impressing friends and family with your strawberry matcha tres leches cake!

Preparing Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake

Making the Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake is a delightful experience filled with vibrant flavors and textures. Let’s jump right into it with a step-by-step guide to ensure your baking journey is both rewarding and enjoyable.

Preheat and prepare your baking dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms, prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by greasing it generously with butter. This ensures your cake releases smoothly after baking. If you want to go the extra mile, you can also line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Separate and whip the eggs

Next, it's time to separate the eggs. In two large bowls, crack five large eggs, placing the yolks in one bowl and the whites in another. Using either a hand or stand mixer, whip the egg whites until they reach soft peaks; this will give your cake that light, fluffy texture. Set these aside while you work on the yolks.

Combine wet ingredients for the sponge

In the bowl with the egg yolks, add ¾ cup of white sugar. Mix until it becomes a pale yellow color—this process is crucial for your cake's structure and sweetness. Add in ½ cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending everything until smooth.

Mix dry ingredients and fold them in gently

In a separate bowl, combine your dry ingredients: 1 ⅓ cups of cake flour, ⅛ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 2 tablespoon of high-quality matcha powder. Sift these ingredients to aerate them, then gently fold them into the egg yolk mixture. Be careful not to overmix!

Bake the matcha sponge cake

Incorporate the whipped egg whites in two additions to the batter, folding gently each time until just incorporated. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the matcha milk mixture

While the cake is baking, whisk together 1 cup of milk, a can of evaporated milk, a can of condensed milk, and 2 teaspoon of matcha powder mixed in ¼ cup of hot water. Set this lovely green concoction aside in the fridge to chill.

Allow the cake to cool and soak it in milk

Once the cake is done baking, let it cool in the dish for about 15-20 minutes. Cut about ¼ inch off the edges to create a surface for better absorption. Use a skewer to poke many holes into the cake to allow the matcha milk mixture to soak in. Slowly pour the chilled milk mixture over the cake, watching it absorb all that liquid goodness. Cover and chill for at least 8 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Make the strawberry whipped cream

When you're ready to serve, whip 2 cups of heavy cream with ½ cup of strawberry jam and ¼ cup of icing sugar until you achieve stiff peaks. This creamy, strawberry-infused topping will enhance your strawberry matcha tres leches cake beautifully.

Assemble and decorate the cake

Finally, spread the whipped cream over your chilled cake. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with matcha powder and add diced strawberries on top. Not only does this look stunning, but it adds a fresh taste that perfectly complements the rich matcha flavor.

And there you have it! Your Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake is ready to impress. Enjoy each delicious bite, and don’t forget to share the joy with friends and family!

Variations on Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake

When you’ve mastered the strawberry matcha tres leches cake, why not explore some exciting variations?

Tropical Fruit Tres Leches Cake

Imagine swapping strawberries for luscious tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, or passion fruits. This vibrant twist not only enhances the cake's appearance but also provides a refreshing burst of flavor. Top it off with a sprinkle of shredded coconut for added texture and an exotic flair!

Chocolate Matcha Tres Leches Cake

For chocolate enthusiasts, consider infusing your matcha sponge with cocoa powder. The combination of light matcha and rich chocolate creates a delightful contrast. Layer your cake with chocolate whipped cream in place of strawberry jam for an indulgent treat that's perfect for any special occasion!

As you get creative with these flavors, don't forget to share your unique creations while exploring the wonderful world of tres leches cakes! Check out this resource for more inspiration.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake

Things to Keep in Mind While Baking

When crafting your strawberry matcha tres leches cake, remember that patience is crucial. Let your egg whites reach soft peaks for a fluffy texture and avoid overmixing your batter. This will ensure a light sponge that soaks up the delicious milk mixture perfectly. Also, make sure to chill the milk mixture as it enhances the flavors—it's worth the wait!

How to Select High-Quality Matcha Powder

Choosing the right matcha powder elevates your cake significantly. Look for vibrant green powder, as dull colors can indicate lower quality. For best results, consider sourcing from reputable brands or local shops specializing in ceremonial grade matcha. This is often more flavorful and richer in antioxidants. You can find great selections on platforms like Matcha Maiden or Encha.

Enjoy the process—happy baking!

Serving suggestions for Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake

Perfect accompaniments

When it comes to serving your strawberry matcha tres leches cake, think light and refreshing! A side of fresh berries adds a pop of color and flavor, enhancing the overall experience. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla or green tea ice cream for a creamy contrast. For drinks, try a chilled jasmine tea or a lovely lemonade, as their citrus notes beautifully complement the matcha and strawberries.

Ideal occasions for serving

This delightful cake is perfect for various gatherings! Impress guests at birthday parties, bridal showers, or casual weekend get-togethers. It’s also a charming addition to any potluck or picnic. With its unique flavors and gorgeous presentation, your strawberry matcha tres leches cake will definitely be a conversation starter. Whether celebrating special moments or enjoying a cozy afternoon, this cake is sure to make it memorable!

Time Breakdown for Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake

Preparation Time
The excitement begins with a preparation time of just 20 minutes! You’ll be whisking and mixing before you know it, setting the stage for a delightful treat.

Cooking Time
Your strawberry matcha tres leches cake will bake to perfection in about 25 minutes. This is the moment when wonderful aromas begin to fill your kitchen — it’s almost as good as the cake itself!

Chilling Time
Patience pays off! Allow your cake to chill for at least 8 hours after soaking it in the milk mixture. This step is crucial for achieving that rich, creamy texture that makes tres leches cake so special.

With just a little time commitment, you’ll end up with a stunning dessert that’s perfect for gatherings or a delightful treat for yourself! If you're interested in learning more about the origins of tres leches cake, a quick read from The History of Tres Leches might pique your interest.

Nutritional Facts for Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake

When indulging in a slice of Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake, it’s helpful to know what’s in it! Here are some key nutritional highlights:

Calories per serving

Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, making it a rich yet delightful dessert choice.

Protein

You’ll benefit from around 6 grams of protein per slice, thanks to the eggs and cream, which helps keep you feeling satisfied.

Sugar content

With about 25 grams of sugar per serving, this cake balances sweetness with its creamy and refreshing flavor profile.

For more information on sweets and healthy alternatives, check out Harvard Health’s guide on sugar consumption. Enjoy your baking adventures!

FAQs about Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake

What are the best substitutes for matcha in this recipe?

If you're not a fan of matcha or can't find any, consider using green tea powder or even spirulina for a unique spin. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly. For those who aren't set on the green color, you might also use vanilla extract or almond extract to maintain a delightful taste, though it won’t be a strawberry matcha tres leches cake.

How can I store leftover cake?

To keep your strawberry matcha tres leches cake fresh, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will last for about 3 to 5 days, and the flavors often develop beautifully as it sits. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent any absorption of other fridge odors!

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake on one day and soak it with the milk mixture the next. The flavors only get better, and you'll save time if you make it ahead of a gathering. Just remember to wait to top it with the strawberry whipped cream until you’re ready to serve it for that fresh, fluffy finish!

Conclusion on Strawberry Matcha Tres Leches Cake

In conclusion, the strawberry matcha tres leches cake is more than just a dessert; it's an experience to savor. This delightful fusion brings together the rich flavors of matcha and the sweetness of strawberries, making it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Remember to share this recipe with friends so they can indulge in this treat too! For more unique dessert ideas, check out Bakerella and Serious Eats. Happy baking!