Tres Leches Pancakes Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

• Sauce:
• 2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 1/3 cup half and half
• Pancakes:
• 1 (15.25 oz) box French vanilla cake mix (such as Betty Crocker Super Moist French Vanilla Cake Mix)
• 1 1/4 cups almond milk
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 4 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1/2 cup whipped cream, or as needed (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, or as needed (optional)

Directions

Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and half and half. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly and bring to a boil. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. This will create a thinner sauce, not a syrup.

Step 2: In a large bowl, add the cake mix, almond milk, eggs, and 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Beat the mixture vigorously by hand for 2 minutes until smooth.

Step 3: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.

Step 4: Pour 1/4 cup of the pancake batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until the edges begin to puff up, and small bubbles form on the surface. When the bubbles pop, they should leave small holes. This will take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 2 minutes until golden brown on the other side.

Step 6: Serve the pancakes warm with a drizzle of the tres leches sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Optionally, adjust the sweetness by adding more sauce if desired.

Cook's Note: The tres leches sauce is very sweet, so I recommend starting with a small drizzle, tasting it, and then adding more if you prefer.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 547
• Total Fat: 20g (26% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 7g (36% DV)
• Cholesterol: 115mg (38% DV)
• Sodium: 627mg (27% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 81g (30% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% DV)
• Total Sugars: 54g
• Protein: 11g (21% DV)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (2% DV)
• Calcium: 335mg (26% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (12% DV)
• Potassium: 284mg (6% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Tres Leches Pancakes recipe is a modern fusion of two beloved culinary traditions: fluffy pancakes and the popular Latin American dessert, tres leches cake. The pancakes are drenched in a rich, creamy sauce made from three types of milkhence the name "tres leches"and are served with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This indulgent dish is perfect for special occasions or a weekend brunch. But the story behind it and its unique regional features make it even more interesting.

History and Origins

The origins of the "tres leches" cake can be traced back to Latin America, with claims of its invention spanning across several countries, including Mexico, Nicaragua, and Cuba. The concept of soaking a cake in a mixture of three kinds of milkevaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy creambecame a signature feature in many Latin American desserts in the mid-20th century. This cake has since gained worldwide popularity due to its moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture and its rich, sweet flavor. Tres Leches Pancakes, as an innovation, likely emerged from the desire to turn this beloved dessert into a fun, breakfast-friendly treat.

Regional Variations

Although tres leches cake is most popular in Latin American countries, the recipe has seen regional variations depending on local tastes and ingredients. For example, in some regions, the cake may be topped with fresh fruits like strawberries or tropical fruits such as mango, while in others, the milk mixture may be flavored with vanilla or rum. Similarly, in the case of Tres Leches Pancakes, the sauce may be served with different garnishes, such as a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dash of cocoa powder, adding a personal touch depending on the locality. This flexibility reflects the adaptability of tres leches-based dishes across various regions.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Tres Leches Pancakes stand out from traditional pancakes in two key ways: the addition of the sweet, milky sauce and the use of cake mix to make the batter. While regular pancakes are typically served with butter and syrup, the tres leches variety is soaked in a mixture of condensed milk, evaporated milk, and half-and-half, giving them a richer and more indulgent flavor. Additionally, the batter for these pancakes uses cake mix, which results in a softer, fluffier texture compared to the denser, more structured classic pancakes made from scratch. This unique combination elevates the experience, making them a decadent breakfast or brunch option.

Where to Serve Tres Leches Pancakes

These pancakes are commonly served in homes or at brunch spots, especially in Latin American-inspired cafes or restaurants. In Latin America, it's not uncommon to find them on the menu during festive occasions, such as holidays or special family gatherings. Tres Leches Pancakes have also made their way into the breakfast and dessert menus of trendy eateries across the United States and Europe, where they have become a popular choice for those looking to try something new and indulgent. Whether youre celebrating a special event or just treating yourself to a luxurious breakfast, these pancakes are sure to impress.

Interesting Facts

• Tres Leches cake was allegedly first created in the 19th century in Nicaragua, although the exact origins remain disputed.
• It is rumored that the cakes invention was inspired by a recipe for a traditional milk-soaked cake in Mexico, which was later adapted by various Latin American countries.
• While tres leches cakes are often made from scratch, this pancake recipe uses a cake mix to simplify the process and ensure the pancakes are as light and fluffy as possible.
• The tres leches sauce is incredibly sweet, so its recommended to start with a light drizzle and adjust to personal taste.

In conclusion, Tres Leches Pancakes offer a delightful twist on traditional pancakes, infusing them with the iconic creamy, sweet flavors of the classic tres leches cake. This indulgent breakfast treat can be enjoyed at any time of the year, and its versatility makes it a perfect choice for different occasions. Whether you are preparing them for a holiday brunch or simply want to spoil yourself with something special, these pancakes are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and leave you wanting more!

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