Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake

Decadent dessert alert! This Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake is a delightful twist on the classic three milk-soaked cake for cookie butter lovers! The result? A rich and creamy dessert that’s decadently moist, subtly spiced, and absolutely irresistible. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion, this cake will impress your family and friends with its unique flavor profile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cookie butter and three milks creates a unique taste that delights the palate.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip up this stunning dessert without any hassle.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it chilled or at room temperature; it’s delicious no matter how you enjoy it.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add fruits or different cookies as garnishes to personalize your cake.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking dish (9×13)
• Offset spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer: Helps achieve fluffy egg whites and well-mixed batter effortlessly.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for organizing your ingredients for easy access while baking.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining dry ingredients thoroughly and mixing wet ingredients smoothly.
• Baking Dish: The right size ensures even baking of your cake.

Ingredients

Decadent dessert alert! This Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake is a delightful twist on the classic three milk-soaked cake for cookie butter lovers! The result? A rich and creamy dessert that’s decadently moist, subtly spiced, and absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients:
– 1½ cups (210g) cake flour
– ½ cup (65g) Biscoff cookies, (finely ground)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp kosher salt
– ⅔ cup (133g) sugar
– 6 large eggs, (separated)
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– ¾ tsp cream of tartar
– 1½ cup (355ml) heavy cream or whole milk, (divided)
– 1 (14oz) can sweetened condensed milk
– 1 (12oz) can evaporated milk
– ½ cup creamy cookie butter, (microwaved for 20-30 seconds until warm)
– 1½ cups (355ml) heavy whipping cream
– 2 Tbsp confectioners’ sugar
– ½ tsp ground cinnamon
– ⅓ cup crushed Biscoff cookies, (for garnish)

How to Make Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat an oven to 350°F (175°C) with a rack set in the center. Grease a 9×13 baking dish with butter or nonstick baking spray.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. 1½ cups (210g) cake flour
2. ½ cup (65g) ground Biscoff cookies
3. 1 tsp ground cinnamon
4. 1 tsp baking powder
5. ½ tsp kosher salt

Set aside.

Step 3: Beat the Wet Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Combine ⅔ cup (133g) sugar and the yolks from 6 large eggs.
2. Beat on medium to medium-high speed for about 5 minutes.
3. Add 2 tsp vanilla extract and ½ cup (118ml) heavy cream. Mix on low speed until just combined.

Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Carefully add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Gently fold until combined. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and clean out the stand mixer bowl.

Step 5: Whip Egg Whites

Place 6 large egg whites in the stand mixer bowl with:
1. ¾ tsp cream of tartar.
2. Beat on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3 minutes.

Step 6: Fold Egg Whites into Wet Ingredients

In three batches, gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Use an offset spatula to smooth it into an even layer. Bake for about 15–20 minutes or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Mix Three Milks

While the cake is baking:
1. Combine 1 cup (237ml) heavy cream,
2. One (14oz) can sweetened condensed milk,
3. One (12oz) can evaporated milk in a bowl.
4. Whisk well and then add in ½ cup warmed cookie butter. Whisk again until mixed thoroughly.

Step 9: Drench the Cake in Tres Leches

As soon as you take out your cake from the oven:
1. Use a wooden skewer or fork to poke holes all over its top.
2. Pour the milk mixture evenly over it.
3. Allow cooling at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Step 10: Chill Overnight

Cover your cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible.

Step 11: Garnish, Then Serve

When ready to serve:
1. In a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, combine
– 1½ cups (355ml) heavy cream,
– 2 Tbsp powdered sugar,
– and ½ tsp ground cinnamon.
2. Whip until medium or stiff peaks form according to preference.
3. Spread this whipped cream on top of your chilled cake.
4. Garnish with crushed Biscoff cookies before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously unique Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake!

How to Serve Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake

Serving Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake can elevate any occasion. Here are some delightful ways to present this decadent dessert that will impress your guests.

Individual Portions

• Serve slices on individual dessert plates for a classic presentation. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra touch.

Family Style

• Place the whole cake on a decorative platter and let guests serve themselves. This creates a warm, communal vibe at your gathering.

Layered Parfaits

• For a fun twist, layer pieces of the cake in clear glasses with whipped cream and crushed Biscoff cookies. This not only looks beautiful but also makes it easy to serve.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair the cake with fresh berries or sliced fruits like strawberries and bananas to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Serve slices alongside a cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the drink complements the creamy texture of the cake perfectly.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice just before serving for an indulgent finish that chocolate lovers will adore.

How to Perfect Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake

To ensure your Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake turns out heavenly, follow these simple tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs and dairy products to room temperature helps them combine more easily, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Whip egg whites properly: Be sure the mixing bowl is clean and dry before whipping egg whites to stiff peaks. This incorporates air for a lighter cake.
• Don’t skip the soaking time: Allowing the cake to soak in the milk mixture overnight enhances flavor and moisture, making each bite irresistible.
• Gently fold mixtures: When combining the dry ingredients with wet or folding in egg whites, do so gently to avoid deflating the batter.
• Use quality cookie butter: Opt for high-quality cookie butter for richer flavor; it makes all the difference in this dessert.
• Chill before serving: Serving this cake chilled allows the flavors to meld beautifully and enhances its refreshing quality.

Best Side Dishes for Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake can enhance its enjoyment. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness that balances the richness of the cake.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream is a classic accompaniment that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the tres leches cake.
3. Cinnamon-Spiced Whipped Cream: Adding cinnamon to whipped cream elevates its flavor and pairs wonderfully with cookie butter notes.
4. Chocolate Mousse: A light and airy chocolate mousse provides a delightful contrast in texture while complementing sweet flavors.
5. Coffee Crème Brûlée: The rich custard topped with caramelized sugar offers an elegant touch that pairs beautifully with the moist cake.
6. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti adds a nice textural contrast and is perfect for dipping into coffee or tea served alongside dessert.
7. Pistachio Baklava: Sweet layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts bring an exotic flair that complements the spiced notes of cookie butter.
8. Churros with Chocolate Sauce: These crispy treats are fun and festive, adding another dimension of flavor that’s loved by all ages.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake, be mindful of these common mistakes.

• Not Greasing the Pan Properly: Failing to grease your baking dish can lead to a cake that sticks and tears when you try to remove it. Always use butter or nonstick spray generously to ensure an easy release.
• Skipping the Egg Separation Step: Mixing whole eggs instead of separating them can lead to a denser cake. Be sure to whip the egg whites separately to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones until just combined for a tender crumb.
• Ignoring Cooling Times: Pouring the milk mixture over a hot cake can cause it to become soggy. Allow your cake to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before soaking it.
• Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how well they mix together. Make sure your eggs and heavy cream are at room temperature for better incorporation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months; however, note that texture may change slightly after thawing.

Reheating Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the cake in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place a slice on a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dessert!

Can I make Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake is perfect for making ahead. Just soak it in the milk mixture and refrigerate overnight before serving.

What is the best way to serve Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake?

Serve chilled with whipped cream on top and garnish with crushed Biscoff cookies for added flavor and texture.

How do I customize my Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake?

You can add spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick. Alternatively, try using different flavored cookie butters or adding fruits like bananas or strawberries between layers.

What if I don’t have Biscoff cookies?

You can substitute them with any similar spiced cookie or even graham crackers if needed. Just grind them finely before use!

Can I use dairy-free alternatives in this recipe?

Certainly! You can replace heavy cream with coconut cream or other dairy-free options while ensuring that sweetened condensed milk is also dairy-free.

Final Thoughts

This Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake is not only rich and creamy but also versatile enough for various occasions. Customize it with your favorite flavors or toppings, and enjoy its moist texture that everyone will love. Give this delightful dessert a try; it’s bound to become a new favorite!