Tres Leches Cake

Tres Leches Cake is a classic Latin American dessert known for its rich, moist texture and sweet milky flavor. This sponge cake is soaked in a combination of three milks—evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk or heavy cream—then topped with whipped cream and garnished with cinnamon or fruit. Light yet indulgent, this dessert is perfect for celebrations or a comforting finish to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra-moist and tender from the three-milk soak
• Light sponge base absorbs flavor beautifully
• Balanced sweetness with creamy texture
• Ideal make-ahead dessert
• Perfect for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions
• Versatile topping options (fruit, cinnamon, coconut)
• A crowd favorite across generations
• Simple ingredients with exceptional results
• Great chilled dessert for warm weather
• Authentic and deeply satisfying

ingredients

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

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Eggs (separated)
• Granulated sugar
• Whole milk
• Vanilla extract

For the Milk Mixture:

• Sweetened condensed milk
• Evaporated milk
• Heavy cream or whole milk
• Vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• Heavy whipping cream
• Powdered sugar
• Ground cinnamon (optional)
• Fresh strawberries or other fruit (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Cake Batter: In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat egg yolks with sugar until pale and thick. Add milk and vanilla, then mix in the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form, then gently fold into the batter.
3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Milk Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, and vanilla.
5. Soak the Cake: Poke holes all over the warm cake using a skewer or fork. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
6. Make the Topping: Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread evenly over the chilled cake.
7. Garnish and Serve: Dust with cinnamon and top with fresh strawberries if desired. Serve chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: at least 4 hours
Total time: about 5 hours

Variations

• Coconut Tres Leches: Replace some of the milk with coconut milk and top with toasted coconut.
• Chocolate Version: Add cocoa powder to the cake and a chocolate drizzle on top.
• Coffee-Infused: Add espresso to the milk mixture for a mocha twist.
• Dulce de Leche: Drizzle dulce de leche over the whipped cream topping.
• Fruit Layer: Add a layer of sliced peaches, mangoes, or berries between the cake and whipped topping.
• Spiced: Add a touch of ground nutmeg or cardamom for warmth.

storage/reheating

Store Tres Leches Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
It is best served cold and does not require reheating.
For longer storage, freeze individual slices in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

What does “tres leches” mean?

“Tres leches” translates to “three milks” in Spanish, referring to the three types of milk used in the cake soak.

Can I use boxed cake mix?

Yes, a white or yellow cake mix can be used for convenience, though homemade sponge provides the best texture for soaking.

Why is my cake not absorbing the milk?

The cake may be too dense or undercooked. Make sure to poke enough holes and pour the milk gradually.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it is ideal for making a day ahead as it improves with time in the refrigerator.

How long should it soak?

A minimum of 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for full absorption and flavor.

Is it too sweet?

Despite the sweetened condensed milk, the whipped cream topping balances the sweetness. You can reduce the sugar in the topping if desired.

Can I make it in a round pan?

Yes, but adjust the baking time and ensure the pan is deep enough to hold the milk mixture.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Dairy-free alternatives can be used, but may slightly change the flavor and texture.

Is it served cold or warm?

Tres Leches Cake is traditionally served cold for the best texture and taste.

Can I freeze Tres Leches Cake?

Yes, it can be frozen in slices without the whipped topping. Thaw and add the topping just before serving.

Conclusion

Tres Leches Cake is a beautifully moist, rich, and indulgent dessert that showcases the best of Latin American baking traditions. With its tender sponge cake soaked in a luscious blend of three milks and topped with airy whipped cream, it’s the perfect dessert for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions. Each bite is creamy, cool, and unforgettable—a true classic that stands the test of time.

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