Banana Tres Leches

Banana Tres Leches Recipe from Mexico with Sweetened Condensed Milk and Heavy Cream

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 13 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Banana Tres Leches is a delightful twist on the classic Tres Leches cake, incorporating the sweet, creamy flavors of banana and a unique meringue topping. This dessert combines the moist, milk-soaked cake with the rich taste of bananas and the light, airy texture of meringue, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations, this recipe offers a unique take on a beloved traditional dessert.

History

The original Tres Leches cake has its roots in Latin America, with variations found across many countries. The addition of bananas to this classic recipe is a relatively modern twist, inspired by the abundant use of bananas in tropical cuisines. This version of the recipe combines the traditional three-milk mixture with the sweet flavor of bananas and the elegance of meringue, making it a unique and delightful dessert.

Ingredients

3 egg whites and 5 whole eggs, at room temperature
1.5 cups granulated sugar
0.13 tsp + 0.25 tsp vanilla extract
0.75 cup confectioners' sugar, sifted
1 cup cake flour
1 tsp baking powder
pinch of salt
butter for greasing pan
7 oz (198 g) sweetened condensed milk
6 oz (170 g) evaporated milk
0.75 cup heavy cream
0.33 cup banana liqueur
0.5 cup heavy whipping cream
2 to 3 bananas, peeled and sliced
1 cup stewed prunes

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 250°F (121°C).

Meringue

Beat 3 egg whites until they are almost stiff.
Sprinkle in 0.33 cup of granulated sugar and 0.13 tsp of vanilla extract, and continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
Add confectioners' sugar and blend quickly and thoroughly by hand using a rubber spatula.
Transfer the meringue onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Spread the meringue over the parchment to a depth of about 1 to 1.5 inches.
Place the baking sheet in the oven for about 1 hour or until the meringue is dry.
Break the meringue into 1-inch chunks and set them aside.

Cake

Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
In a large bowl, mix the eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar with an electric mixer on high speed.
Add 0.25 cup of water and continue beating until the mixture is fluffy and pale yellow.
Stir in the flour mixture and blend thoroughly and quickly by hand.
Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 12-inch by 9-inch cake pan and tap firmly once or twice on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
Immediately place the pan in the oven.
Bake for 10 to 13 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean when inserted in the middle.
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool.
Meanwhile, whisk together the condensed milk, evaporated milk, 0.75 cup of heavy cream, and liqueur.
Using a toothpick, poke holes in the cake and pour the milk mixture over the top.
Refrigerate the cake.
In a well-chilled bowl, using chilled beaters, beat the remaining heavy whipping cream and extract until stiff peaks form.
Cut the cake into pieces with a 3-inch diameter cookie cutter.
Put a scoop of whipped cream on top and garnish with chunks of meringue.
Surround with slices of banana.

Variations

Consider adding a layer of caramelized bananas between the cake and the whipped cream for an extra banana flavor. Alternatively, mix in some chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the batter for a chocolatey twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Banana Tres Leches cake turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor.

- Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and heavy cream, are at room temperature before starting.

- When making the meringue, ensure the bowl and beaters are completely clean and dry to achieve stiff peaks.

- Allow the cake to soak in the milk mixture for several hours or overnight to achieve the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Banana Tres Leches cake chilled, garnished with additional slices of fresh banana and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost.

Cooking Techniques

Achieving the perfect meringue involves beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form, a technique that requires patience and a clean, grease-free environment. For the cake, gentle folding of the dry ingredients into the wet mixture helps maintain a light, airy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version, substitute whole milk for the heavy cream in the milk mixture. Almond milk or coconut milk can be used as dairy-free options, though they will alter the flavor slightly.

Make Ahead Tips

The cake can be baked and soaked with the milk mixture up to a day in advance. Prepare the whipped cream and meringue topping just before serving to ensure they remain fresh and hold their texture.

Presentation Ideas

Serve individual portions of the cake on plates decorated with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. A mint leaf can add a touch of color and freshness to the presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A sweet dessert wine or a cup of strong coffee makes an excellent pairing with Banana Tres Leches cake, balancing its sweetness and richness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This cake is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Banana Tres Leches cake contains approximately 400 calories. The calories mainly come from the sugars and fats in the recipe.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Banana Tres Leches cake contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the sugar and flour used in the cake and meringue, as well as the natural sugars found in bananas.

Fats

Each serving of this dessert contains about 18 grams of fat, with the primary sources being the heavy cream, eggs, and butter. Using low-fat milk options can reduce the fat content, though it may also affect the cake's richness and texture.

Proteins

This cake provides around 7 grams of protein per serving, coming mainly from the eggs, milk, and heavy cream.

Vitamins and minerals

Banana Tres Leches cake is a good source of calcium from the milk and heavy cream, as well as potassium from the bananas. It also contains small amounts of vitamin A and iron.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include eggs, milk, and gluten. Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dessert or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

While Banana Tres Leches cake is rich in flavor and texture, it is also high in sugars and fats. Enjoying it in moderation as part of a balanced diet is recommended.

Summary

Banana Tres Leches cake is a rich, flavorful dessert that combines the moist, creamy texture of Tres Leches cake with the sweet taste of bananas. While indulgent, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet and is perfect for special occasions or as a treat. With tips for preparation and presentation, this recipe is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor, Mrs. Rodriguez, with her garden. As a thank you, she invited me into her kitchen for a snack. I watched in awe as she whipped up a delicious dessert - Banana Tres Leches. The sweet smell of ripe bananas and creamy milk filled the air, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Mrs. Rodriguez noticed my interest and offered to teach me the recipe. She explained that Tres Leches, which means "three milks" in Spanish, is a traditional Latin American dessert made with three different types of milk - evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. The combination of these milks creates a rich and creamy texture that is simply irresistible.

I watched intently as Mrs. Rodriguez sliced ripe bananas and arranged them in a baking dish. She then mixed together the three milks and poured them over the bananas, allowing the mixture to soak into the cake. The final touch was a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. The result was a heavenly dessert that was both light and indulgent at the same time.

As I savored my first bite of Banana Tres Leches, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. Mrs. Rodriguez was kind enough to write down the recipe for me, and I vowed to make it for my family and friends whenever I had the chance.

Over the years, I have made Banana Tres Leches countless times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. Sometimes I like to add a splash of rum or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra flavor. Other times, I experiment with different types of fruits, such as strawberries or mangoes, to create a unique variation of this classic dessert.

One of my favorite memories of making Banana Tres Leches was when my grandchildren came to visit. They were initially skeptical of the dessert, as they had never tried anything like it before. But as soon as they took their first bite, their eyes lit up with delight. They couldn't get enough of the creamy, banana-infused cake, and they begged me to make it for them every time they came to visit.

As I shared the recipe with my grandchildren, I also passed on the story of how I learned to make Banana Tres Leches from Mrs. Rodriguez. I told them about the warm summer day spent in her kitchen, watching her work her magic with just a few simple ingredients. I explained how cooking is not just about following a recipe, but about creating memories and sharing love with those around you.

Now, whenever my grandchildren make Banana Tres Leches with me, they are reminded of the special bond we share and the love that goes into every bite of this delicious dessert. As I watch them mix the three milks, slice the bananas, and layer the ingredients in the baking dish, I am filled with joy knowing that this recipe will be passed down through generations in our family.

In the end, Banana Tres Leches is more than just a dessert to me - it is a symbol of love, family, and the joy of sharing good food with the ones you care about. I am grateful to Mrs. Rodriguez for introducing me to this recipe all those years ago, and I will always cherish the memories we created together in her kitchen. As I continue to make Banana Tres Leches for my loved ones, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting bonds that stand the test of time.