When it comes to international McDonald’s menu items that Americans envy, Venezuela’s McFlurry ranks high. While customers in the U.S. usually get their McFlurry blended with Oreos, M&M’s, or a limited-time flavor, the Venezuelan version transforms the treat into a tres leches-inspired dessert — a creamy, indulgent twist on a Latin American classic.
Tres leches, or “three milks” cake, begins with sponge cake soaked in a mixture of sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk (or heavy cream). Traditionally, it’s topped with whipped cream and sometimes enhanced with caramel or dulce de leche. A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg often adds warmth and spice, balancing out the sweetness.
To create the Vanilla Tres Leches McFlurry, McDonald’s uses its signature soft-serve ice cream, cubes of sponge cake, a drizzle of caramel, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Available in Venezuela and select Latin American countries such as Peru, the flavor combination mirrors the beloved dessert while keeping the McFlurry’s creamy texture.
This summer, McDonald’s expanded the concept with a chocolate version of the Tres Leches McFlurry. It swaps in chocolate soft serve, adds chunks of cake, chocolate syrup, and finishes with cinnamon. The result is just as tempting, offering a richer spin on the traditional flavor.
No travel plans to Venezuela? You can replicate the treat in your own kitchen. Start with a store-bought or homemade tres leches cake, cut it into cubes, and mix it into softened vanilla or dulce de leche ice cream. Top it off with caramel sauce and a light sprinkle of cinnamon for a homemade stand-in that’s just as satisfying.
While several Latin American nations claim the cake’s invention, Nicaragua is widely credited as the likely birthplace, with Mexico also laying strong claim to the dessert’s heritage. Regardless of origin, its popularity across the region speaks to its enduring appeal.
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