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Pollo Tropical Cuatro Leches Recipe

Pollo Tropical Cuatro Leches Recipe

Tina Cooper
For many of us, food isn’t just fuel; it’s a celebration. It tells stories, brings back cherished memories, and introduces us to new horizons. 
Prep Time 3 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 12 Servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven

Ingredients
  

Cake

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup whole milk

Quatro Leches Filling

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 14-oz can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 12-oz can evaporated milk
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract for a subtle nutty flavor

Frosting

  • 4 large egg whites
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar for stability in the meringue
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Instructions
 

  • Let’s dive into creating this culinary masterpiece. Follow these steps closely to ensure success!

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

  • Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a rectangular cake pan. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the baking powder and flour. In a separate bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and the eggs until light and fluffy. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until combined. Finally, stir in the milk until smooth.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

  • Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Cuatro Leches Mixture

  • While the cake cools, it’s time to make the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Whisk until well combined.

Step 4: Soak the Cake

  • Once the cake has cooled completely, poke holes all over the surface using a fork. This allows the milk mixture to seep into the cake. Slowly pour the Cuatro Leches mixture over the cake, ensuring it soaks in evenly. Let the cake rest in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.

Step 5: Make the Meringue Frosting

  • In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.

Step 6: Frost the Cake

  • Once the cake is completely soaked, spread the meringue frosting evenly on top. You can use a spatula or the back of a spoon to create peaks for a decorative finish.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

  • Refrigerate the frosted cake for at least an hour. This gives the meringue time to set. When ready to serve, slice into pieces and enjoy the delicious layers of flavor!

Notes

Here are some useful tips to ensure your Pollo Tropical Cuatro Leches turns out perfectly:
  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature eggs and milk incorporate better and contribute to a fluffier cake.
  • Don’t Rush the Soak: Allow the cake enough time to absorb the milk mixture. Overnight soaking yields the best results.
  • Whip the Egg Whites Properly: Ensure that your bowl and utensils are grease-free. Any oil can prevent the whites from whipping to peak perfection.
  • Chill Before Serving: The flavors improve after chilling in the fridge; it intensifies the taste while providing a cool contrast.
  • Experiment with Toppings: You can add toppings like fruit or chocolate shavings for an extra flair.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal
Keyword Pollo Tropical Cuatro Leches Recipe
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