Vanilla Sponge Cake with Three Milks

A luscious and indulgent dessert, this Vanilla Sponge Cake with Three Milks and Neapolitan Flan Filling is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Featuring a light and airy vanilla sponge soaked in a rich three-milk blend, layered with silky Neapolitan flan, and topped with smooth whipped cream, this cake is a showstopper for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is the perfect marriage of a classic tres leches cake and a rich flan dessert. The sponge absorbs the milk mixture beautifully, resulting in a moist, melt-in-your-mouth bite every time. The layered Neapolitan flan—chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla—adds a luxurious, creamy contrast to the soft cake. With the final touch of fluffy whipped cream, this dessert is as elegant as it is delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Vanilla Sponge Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup milk

For the Three Milk Soak:

• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup evaporated milk
• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk

For the Neapolitan Flan Filling:

• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• ¼ cup cocoa powder (for chocolate layer)
• ¼ cup strawberry puree (for strawberry layer)

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

Prepare the Vanilla Sponge Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
2. In a bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
4. Mix in vanilla extract, then gently fold in the flour mixture.
5. Add melted butter and milk, folding gently until smooth.
6. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Three Milk Soak:

1. Whisk together whole milk, evaporated milk, and sweetened condensed milk in a bowl. Set aside.

Prepare the Neapolitan Flan Filling:

1. In a saucepan, heat whole milk, heavy cream, and sugar over medium heat until warm.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Gradually whisk the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture.
4. Return to saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened (5–7 minutes).
5. Divide into three equal parts:
   • Leave one plain (vanilla)
   • Stir cocoa powder into one for the chocolate layer
   • Mix strawberry puree into one for the strawberry layer
6. Allow flan fillings to cool.

Assemble the Cake:

1. Slice the sponge cake into two layers.
2. Pour the three-milk mixture over both layers and let soak for 5–10 minutes.
3. Place the bottom layer on a serving plate and spread alternating layers of flan (chocolate, strawberry, vanilla) on top.
4. Add the second sponge layer and repeat flan layering on top. Smooth out the surface.

Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:

1. In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread whipped cream over the cake and pipe decorative swirls along the edge.

Chill and Serve:

1. Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 3–4 hours.
2. Slice and serve. Optionally garnish with grated chocolate or fresh fruit.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Chilling Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours
• Servings: 8
• Calories: 350 kcal per serving

Variations

• Coffee Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of espresso powder to the milk soak for a mocha flavor.
• Coconut Flan: Replace one-third of the flan filling with coconut milk and desiccated coconut for a tropical flair.
• Berry Compote Topping: Top the whipped cream with a mixed berry compote for added freshness.
• Almond Essence: Substitute almond extract for vanilla in the sponge for a nutty undertone.
• Mini Cakes: Bake in ramekins for individually portioned desserts.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the cake refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: It’s best to freeze the sponge cake alone before assembly. Once thawed, proceed with soaking and filling.
• Reheating: This cake is served chilled and should not be reheated. Allow a few minutes at room temperature before serving if desired.

FAQs

How do I prevent the sponge cake from becoming too soggy?

Let the cake layers soak for only 5–10 minutes and ensure the flan is not too runny before layering.

Can I use store-bought flan instead of homemade?

Yes, you can use ready-made flan, but the texture may differ and layering might be less stable.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for cakes.

Can I make this dessert in advance?

Absolutely. This cake is ideal for preparing a day in advance as it allows the flavors to meld.

What type of milk works best for the soak?

Whole milk is ideal for richness, but low-fat milk can be used for a lighter version.

How thick should the flan be before layering?

It should be thick enough to hold its shape but still spreadable—similar to a custard consistency.

Can I use a different cake base?

Yes, a light chiffon or angel food cake can work, though results may vary in texture.

Is the strawberry puree fresh or cooked?

Use fresh strawberry puree for the best flavor, but strained jam can also work in a pinch.

What’s the best way to slice this layered cake?

Use a long, serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.

Can I skip the whipped cream topping?

Yes, though it adds a lovely balance. Alternatively, use a light cream cheese frosting.

Conclusion

Vanilla Sponge Cake with Three Milks and Neapolitan Flan Filling is a refined and decadent dessert that offers a delightful twist on traditional tres leches. With its elegant layers, creamy textures, and beautiful flavor contrasts, it is perfect for celebrations or when you simply want to indulge. Prepare it ahead, serve chilled, and enjoy a slice of rich, dreamy perfection.