Nutella Three Milks Cake: The Ultimate Decadence You Need to Try!

Name: Nutella Three Milks Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (Use a good quality brand like King Arthur or Gold Medal for consistency.); 1.5 teaspoons baking powder (Fresh is key for that perfect rise.); 0.25 teaspoon salt (Balances the sweetness.); 5 large eggs, separated (Room temperature eggs work best for more volume in your cake.); 1 cup sugar, divided (Granulated sugar for the batter and more for the meringue.); 0.25 cup milk (Whole milk for richness.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Always choose pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.); 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 0.5 cup Nutella (Use a high-quality brand for that signature flavor.); 1 cup heavy cream (For a dreamy topping.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (For whipped topping.); Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (Adds a beautiful finish.)

Have you ever experienced that magical moment when you take a bite of a dessert and it feels like a warm hug? For me, that dessert is the Nutella Three Milks Cake. Growing up, my family gathered around the dinner table to indulge in sweet treats, but this one stole the show! Imagine a fluffy sponge soaked in a rich, creamy blend of three types of milk, with the delightful addition of Nutella for that luscious chocolatey finish. It brings back cherished memories of laughter and heartfelt conversations, making every bite a moment worth savoring.

What sets my Nutella Three Milks Cake apart? It’s the perfect marriage of textures and flavors, with a light sponge enveloped in a velvety, moist filling that melts in your mouth. Trust me; this is no ordinary cake! It’s an experience that transforms any occasion into a celebration. In this blog post, I’m going to share not just the recipe but also the secrets to its success. You’ll learn how to achieve that perfect texture, those irresistible flavors, and create moments of joy to share with your loved ones. Are you ready to embark on this delicious adventure?

What Are Nutella Three Milks Cake?

The Nutella Three Milks Cake is a delightful twist on the classic Latin American Tres Leches Cake. Traditionally, this cake consists of a light sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three different types of milk—evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream—resulting in a moist and creamy dessert. The addition of Nutella elevates it to new heights, giving it a beautiful chocolatey richness that pairs perfectly with the cake’s creamy filling.

Each bite of this cake offers a taste of velvety chocolate combined with the lightness of the sponge. The unique texture comes from soaking the cake in the milk mixture, making it incredibly moist without becoming soggy. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a sweet treat to brighten your day, this cake fits the bill beautifully!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unmatched Flavor: The Nutella adds a rich chocolate flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the three milks, creating a delightful balance that’s simply irresistible.

2. Cost-Effective Indulgence: Why splurge on a restaurant dessert when you can recreate this decadent cake at home? With budget-friendly ingredients and the ability to make a large batch, you can impress your guests without breaking the bank!

3. Customization Galore: I love that this recipe allows for so many variations! You can swap out Nutella for other flavorings like caramel, fruit puree, or even a rich espresso for a mocha-flavored treat.

4. Easy to Make: This cake is approachable for bakers of all skill levels. With just a few simple steps, you’ll learn the craft of creating an impressive dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or simply a Sunday family dinner, this Nutella Three Milks Cake is the star of the show, bringing joy and indulgence to every table.

Ingredients

To create the perfect Nutella Three Milks Cake, it’s essential to use quality ingredients for the best results. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup all-purpose flour: Use a good quality brand like King Arthur or Gold Medal for consistency.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Fresh is key for that perfect rise.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
5 large eggs, separated: Room temperature eggs work best for more volume in your cake.
1 cup sugar, divided: Granulated sugar for the batter and more for the meringue.
¼ cup milk: Whole milk for richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Always choose pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 cup heavy cream: For a dreamy topping.
½ cup Nutella: The star of the show! Use a high-quality brand for that signature flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped topping)
Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (for garnish): Adds a beautiful finish.

Prep Notes: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for even mixing. Measure your ingredients carefully for the best results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Set aside.
Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the 5 large egg yolks with ¾ cup sugar until pale and creamy. Then, mix in ¼ cup milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a light texture.
Whip Egg Whites: In another bowl, beat the 5 egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining ¼ cup of sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter using a spatula.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden.
Poke Holes: Once cooled for about 10 minutes, use a fork to poke holes all over the cake. This allows the milks to soak in.
Prepare the Soaking Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together 1 can evaporated milk, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, and ½ cup Nutella until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Let it soak for at least 2 hours in the fridge, ideally overnight.
Whip the Topping: For the whipped topping, whip 1 cup heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and continue to whip until stiff peaks form.
Finishing Touches: Spread the whipped cream over the top of the cake and garnish with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder before serving. Chill until ready to serve!

Chef’s Tips

Timing: Allowing the cake to soak overnight intensifies the flavors and makes for a truly indulgent dessert.
Visual Cues: When baking, look for a slight bounce back when touching the center of the cake.
Avoiding Common Mistakes: Take care not to overmix, especially when folding in the egg whites! This can lead to a dense cake.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Storage Recommendations: Store leftover cake in the fridge covered tightly or in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 days.
Make Ahead: This cake is perfect for making ahead of time. The flavors deepen the longer it sits in the fridge.
Troubleshooting: If your cake doesn’t rise, check that your baking powder is fresh. Also, avoid opening the oven door before 25 minutes to retain heat.
Variations: You can use flavored milks like coconut or almond milk for a unique twist. Just adjust the chocolate to complement the new flavor profile!
Presentation Pointers: Use a spatula to create swirls in the whipped topping for extra flair—it’s all about that wow factor!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Nutella Three Milks Cake with a fresh berry compote or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience! To present it beautifully, serve slices on elegant dessert plates and garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers. This cake is perfect for birthday parties, holiday dinners, or potlucks—any occasion where you want to impress!

Variations & Substitutions

Flavor Combinations: Consider swapping Nutella with different flavors like caramel sauce or espresso for a mocha twist.
Dietary Adaptations: To make it gluten-free, try using almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk products can be used in place of dairy milks.

Nutrition & Storage Info

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (includes soaking)
Yield: Serves about 12
Estimated Calories per Serving: 350-400 calories
Storage Instructions: Keep in the refrigerator for 3 days, or in the freezer for 1 month (though the texture may change).
For best flavor, enjoy within the first two days after preparing!

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of milk?
Yes! You can customize the milk combination based on your preference or dietary needs. Coconut milk or almond milk are great alternatives.
How long does the cake soak the milk mixture?
Allow it to soak for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal for richer flavors.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! It’s best when made a day ahead to let the flavors develop.
What if I can’t find Nutella?
You can substitute with chocolate syrup or a different chocolate spread, but Nutella provides a unique flavor.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake without the topping. Wrap it well and store for up to a month.
Is there a non-chocolate version?
Yes! You can skip the Nutella and infuse the milks with flavors like vanilla or almond extract instead.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can I use egg substitutes?
Yes! You can use flax eggs or commercial egg replacement products, but the texture may vary.
What’s the best way to cut a cake soaked in milk?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to help cut through the moist layers cleanly.
What should I serve with this cake?
It pairs beautifully with whipped cream, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Conclusion

The Nutella Three Milks Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that intertwines rich flavor with personal memories. Each bite is a reminder of family gatherings and sweet indulgence, and I simply can’t wait for you to discover it for yourself! Try this recipe, and I guarantee it will quickly become a favorite in your household. I would love to hear your feedback and any variations you try! Don’t forget to check out other delightful recipes on my blog, like my classic Tres Leches Cake and my mouthwatering Chocolate Lava Cake. Happy baking!