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 celebrations, gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake stands out with its unique flavor profile that combines the richness of cookie butter with the beloved tres leches tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of creamy cookie butter and three types of milk creates a luscious flavor experience.
• Moist & Decadent: Soaked in a three-milk mixture, this cake is incredibly moist—perfect for dessert enthusiasts.
• Easy to Follow: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this recipe and impress guests.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual family dinner, this cake suits any occasion beautifully.
• Gorgeous Presentation: Topped with whipped cream and crushed Biscoff cookies, it’s as stunning as it is delicious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth. Having the right equipment will ensure your Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake comes out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• 9×13 baking dish
• Mixing bowls (large)
• Whisk
• Wooden skewer or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Ideal for whipping egg whites to stiff peaks easily, ensuring a light texture for the cake.
• 9×13 baking dish: Perfect size for even baking and soaking the cake in the tres leches mixture.
• Mixing bowls: Multiple bowls are helpful for keeping wet and dry ingredients organized during preparation.

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.

For the Cake

• 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

For the Milk Mixture

• 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

For Topping

• 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:
* 1½ cups (210g) cake flour
* ½ cup (65g) ground Biscoff cookies
* 1 tsp ground cinnamon
* 1 tsp baking powder
* ½ tsp kosher salt
Set aside.

Step 3: Beat the Wet Ingredients

Place:
* ⅔ cup (133g) sugar
* 6 egg yolks
in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment. Beat on medium to medium-high speed for about 5 minutes. Add:
* 2 tsp vanilla extract
* ½ cup (118ml) heavy cream
Mix on low speed until just combined.

Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Carefully add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Gently fold to combine. 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. Add:
* ¾ tsp cream of tartar
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 cake batter until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Use an offset spatula to smooth into an even layer. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Mix Three Milks

While the cake bakes, combine:
* 1 cup (237ml) heavy cream
* 1 (14oz) can sweetened condensed milk
* 1 (12oz) can evaporated milk
in a bowl. Whisk well. Add:
* ½ cup warmed cookie butter
and whisk into the milk mixture.

Step 9: Drench the Cake in Tres Leches

As soon as you take out the cake from the oven, use a wooden skewer or fork to poke holes all over its top. Pour the milk mixture evenly over it. Cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Step 10: Chill Overnight

Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours or up to overnight.

Step 11: Garnish then Serve

When ready to serve, combine:
* 1½ cups (355ml) heavy cream
* 2 Tbsp powdered sugar
* ½ tsp ground cinnamon
in a stand mixer fitted with whisk attachment. Whip until medium or stiff peaks form based on your preference. Spread on top of the cake evenly and garnish with crushed Biscoff cookies. Enjoy!

How to Serve Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake

This Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or enjoying a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your cake experience.

Individual Slices

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

With Fresh Berries

• Pair the cake with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

Ice Cream Topping

• For a decadent treat, serve a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side. This adds a creamy texture and balances the richness of the cake.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce over each slice creates an indulgent touch. This adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with cookie butter.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso. The bitterness of coffee contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cake.

How to Perfect Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake

Perfecting your Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake can make all the difference in taste and texture. Follow these tips for an outstanding dessert.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially eggs and milk, are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.
• Don’t skip the soaking step: Allow the cake to soak in the milk mixture thoroughly. This is key to achieving that signature tres leches moistness.
• Gently fold egg whites: When incorporating egg whites into your batter, fold gently to maintain their volume for a light and airy cake.
• Chill overnight: For optimal flavor and texture, let your cake chill overnight before serving. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with toppings: While crushed Biscoff cookies are traditional, try adding different toppings like chocolate shavings or nuts for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake

Enhancing your dessert spread can create a well-rounded experience when serving Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake. Here are some side dish ideas that pair well with this rich treat.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
2. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
   Crispy tortilla chips sprinkled with cinnamon sugar offer a crunchy texture that complements soft desserts.
3. Creamy Coleslaw
   A light and tangy coleslaw can balance out the richness of the tres leches cake while adding crunch.
4. Chocolate Mousse
   A silky chocolate mousse creates a luxurious combination when enjoyed alongside cookie butter flavors.
5. Vanilla Pudding
   Light and creamy vanilla pudding serves as a smooth counterpart to the moist cake, enhancing each bite.
6. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and warmth that pairs delightfully with sweet desserts like tres leches cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for. Here’s how to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly!

• Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven before baking. An unheated oven can lead to uneven baking and a cake that doesn’t rise properly.
• Overmixing the batter: Gently fold in the egg whites to maintain their volume. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light texture desired.
• Neglecting to poke holes: Poking holes in the cake after baking is crucial for allowing the milk mixture to soak in. Skipping this step results in a dry cake.
• Using cold ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream are at room temperature for better incorporation and fluffiness. Cold ingredients can hinder proper mixing.
• Not chilling long enough: Allow the cake to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps develop flavors and ensures it’s thoroughly soaked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake

• You can freeze the uncut cake for up to 2 months.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the cake covered with foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Microwave individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm slowly for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common queries about the Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake, helping you get the most out of your baking experience.

What is Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake?

Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake is a twist on traditional tres leches cake, incorporating cookie butter into the soaked milk mixture for added flavor and richness.

How long does it take to make Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake?

The total time required is approximately 325 minutes, which includes prep time, baking, cooling, and chilling.

Can I use different flavors of cookie butter?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various flavors of cookie butter to create unique versions of this delicious cake.

Is Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake suitable for special occasions?

Yes! This cake makes an impressive dessert for birthdays, celebrations, or any gathering where you want to wow your guests with something special.

How should I serve Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake?

Serve chilled with whipped cream on top and garnished with crushed cookies for texture and visual appeal!

Final Thoughts

This Cookie Butter Tres Leches Cake offers a delightful blend of flavors that’s sure to impress any dessert lover. With its creamy texture and sweet undertones, it’s perfect for celebrations or just as a treat. Don’t hesitate to customize it with different toppings or add-ins based on your preferences!