Caramel Leche & Cheese Pillow Cake
🛒 What You’ll Need
For the Airy Pillow Cake:
- 5 Large eggs (separated) 🥚
- ½ cup All-purpose flour, sifted 🌾
- ½ cup Granulated sugar 🍬
- ¼ cup Whole milk 🥛
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil 🫒
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract ✨
- ½ tsp Cream of tartar ☁️
For the Caramel Leche Glaze:
- 1 can (14 oz) Sweetened condensed milk 🍯
- ½ cup Evaporated milk 🥛
- 3 Egg yolks 🥚
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract ✨
The Finish:
- ½ cup Finely grated Cheddar cheese (the secret ingredient!) 🧀
- Optional: Extra caramel drizzle on top 🍯
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper. 📝🔥
- The Batter Base: Whisk 5 egg yolks with half the sugar, milk, oil, and vanilla. Gently fold in the sifted flour until smooth. 🌪️🌾
- Whip the Whites: In a separate bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until foamy. Gradually add the remaining sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. ☁️🥚🌪️
- Fold Gently: Carefully fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture in three batches. Keep it light and airy! 🌀✨
- Bake: Pour into the pan and bake for 45–50 minutes using a water bath (place the cake pan inside a larger pan with hot water). This keeps it “pillow” soft! ⏲️💧🎯
- Make the Leche: While the cake bakes, combine condensed milk, evaporated milk, and 3 yolks in a saucepan. Stir constantly over low heat until thickened into a silky glaze. Add vanilla and let cool. 🍯🔥📈
- Assemble: Once the cake is cool, spread the creamy caramel leche glaze generously over the top. 🍮🏗️
- The Cheesy Touch: Sprinkle the finely grated cheese over the glaze. The salty cheese against the sweet caramel is legendary! 🧀🤤✨
🔥 Pro Tips:
- Water Bath is Essential: Don’t skip the water bath! It ensures the cake stays moist and prevents it from cracking or shrinking. 💧🛡️
- The Cheese Factor: Use a mild, salty Cheddar for that authentic “Pillow Cake” flavor profile. 🧀💎
