Best Authentic Tres Leches Cake

Prepare the Cloud Base: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease or line a 9 by 13 inch pan. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

The Yolk Sunshine: In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with the granulated sugar until pale and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add the whole milk and vanilla extract. Stir in the dry ingredients until the batter is smooth.

Whip the Clouds: In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they reach soft, stiff peaks. This is the air that makes your cake light!

Gentle Folding Magic: Slowly and gently fold the whipped egg whites into the yolk batter until no streaks of white remain. Be careful not to deflate the batter.

Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack. Poke holes all over the top with a fork.

Make it Tres Leches: Whisk the evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk (and optional heavy cream/third milk). Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, letting it soak in. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours (overnight = perfection).

Whipped Bliss: If topping it, beat the chilled heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Spread evenly over the chilled cake.

Decorate: Add fresh berries or dust lightly with cinnamon. Stand back and admire your masterpiece.