Tres leches is a delicious sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three different types of milk: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk.
But how long can this traditional Latin American dessert last, and is there any chance of it going bad?
In short, yes, tres leches can go bad, but its shelf life depends on several factors, such as storage and whether it has been opened or unopened.
Tres leches can last up to five days in the refrigerator when stored in a tightly sealed container. After that, it can begin to spoil and lose its flavor and texture. It is crucial to note that consuming spoiled food can lead to illness, so it is best to err on the side of caution and discard any tres leches that seem to be past its prime.
What is Tres Leches?
Tres leches, also known as three milks, is a traditional Latin American cake that has gained popularity in various parts of the world.
The cake itself is a light and airy sponge cake that is soaked in a mixture of three different types of milk: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk.
The combination of these three milks gives the cake its unique taste and texture. The sponge cake absorbs the milk mixture, resulting in a moist and rich cake that is perfect for any occasion.
Tres leches is typically a dessert that is enjoyed by many. With its milk mixture, it adds a richness and a depth of flavor that is hard to resist.
How long does Tres Leches last?
As with any food item, the shelf life of tres leches depends on several factors such as storage, preservatives, and whether the cake has been opened or unopened.
Unopened Tres Leches
If you have an unopened tres leches cake, it can typically last for up to a week when stored in the refrigerator. Ensure that the cake is kept in a tightly sealed container to prevent air and moisture from entering, which can cause the cake to spoil more quickly.
It is crucial to note that keeping the cake in the fridge can enhance its shelf life, but it’s still essential to check the expiration date on the packaging before consuming it.
Opened Tres Leches
Once you have opened the tres leches cake, it’s essential to consume it within five days. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container to prevent the cake from drying out and to prevent any bacteria from entering.
It’s essential to note that consuming spoiled tres leches can lead to food poisoning, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw away any cake that looks or smells funky.
How to Tell if Tres Leches Has Gone Bad?
It’s relatively easy to tell if tres leches has gone bad. Here are the signs to look out for:
Off-smelling Aroma
One of the first indicators that tres leches has gone bad is a sour or unpleasant aroma. If the cake smells off, it’s likely that bacteria has started to grow on it. It’s best to throw it out to be safe.
Unpleasant Texture
If the tres leches cake has a slimy or slippery texture, it’s another sign that bacteria is growing on the cake. Consuming it can lead to food poisoning, so it’s best to throw it away.
Abnormal Color
If the tres leches cake has an unusual color or has started to turn yellow or brown in color, it’s another sign that the cake has gone bad. Bacteria causes this discoloration, so it’s best to dispose of it.
Presence of Mold
If you see any mold growing on the cake, it’s a sign that it has spoiled. Mold is a fungus that can cause various health problems such as allergies and respiratory problems.
How to Store Tres Leches?
Tres leches is a delicate cake that requires proper storage to enhance its shelf life. Here are some tips for storing tres leches:
Tightly Wrap
Wrap the tres leches cake tightly using a plastic wrap. This helps to prevent air and moisture from entering and keeps the cake moist.
Keep in the Refrigerator
Once wrapped tightly, place the tres leches cake in the fridge. The fridge keeps the cake fresh for up to five days.
Avoid the Freezer
Tres leches does not freeze well. Freezing it can cause the cake to lose its texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Tres leches is a delicious Latin American dessert that is worth indulging in. However, like any food item, it has a shelf life, and it’s crucial to store it properly to keep it fresh.
Unopened tres leches cake can last up to a week in the fridge, while opened tres leches should be consumed within five days. Look out for signs such as an off-smelling aroma, unpleasant texture, abnormal color, or the presence of mold.
Remember to store tres leches tightly wrapped in the fridge for maximum freshness. Once it expires, it is best to throw it out rather than risk consuming spoiled food.
Jenny has always been passionate about cooking, and she uses her platform to share her joy of food with others. Her recipes are easy to follow, and she loves giving tips and tricks to help others create their own unique culinary creations.