Trileçe
A modern Albanian dessert sensation, Trileçe is a light and airy vanilla sponge cake soaked in a decadent mixture of three milks (evaporated, condensed, and fresh milk or cream), topped with a glossy caramel glaze. It's a delightful fusion of Latin American Tres Leches cake with a distinctly Albanian popularity.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 4 large Eggs(room temperature)
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 can (12 oz) Evaporated milk
- 1 can (14 oz) Sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup Heavy cream or whole milk
- 0.5 cup Granulated sugar(for caramel)
- 2 tbsp Water(for caramel)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- 2
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and 1 cup of sugar until pale and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract.
- 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- 4
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 5
While the cake is baking, prepare the milk mixture. In a large bowl or pitcher, combine the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream (or whole milk). Whisk until well combined.
- 6
Once the cake is out of the oven, immediately poke holes all over the top with a fork or skewer. Slowly and evenly pour the milk mixture over the hot cake, allowing it to soak in.
- 7
Let the cake cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the milk to fully absorb.
- 8
To make the caramel glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 0.5 cup of sugar and 2 tbsp of water. Heat over medium heat, swirling the pan occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep amber color. Be careful not to burn it.
- 9
Immediately pour the hot caramel over the chilled cake. Spread it evenly with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Let the caramel set slightly before serving.
- 10
Slice and serve chilled.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the cake is still warm when you pour the milk mixture over it for maximum absorption.
- ✓Poking many holes in the cake is crucial for even milk distribution.
- ✓The caramel can be tricky; watch it closely to prevent burning.
🔄 Variations
- Add a touch of lemon zest to the cake batter for extra brightness.
- Drizzle with extra caramel sauce before serving.