This Tres Leches Cake Recipe is a light, airy sponge cake soaked in a rich blend of three milks, then topped with fluffy whipped cream. Sweet, creamy, and irresistibly moist, this Latin American classic is a must-try dessert!
Why Everyone Loves Tres Leches Cake
Tres leches cake is beloved for its ultra-moist texture and balanced sweetness. The three-milk soak creates a creamy consistency, making every bite melt in your mouth. If you love rich, moist cakes, try this Vanilla Cake Recipe.
Ingredients
- Cake Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 5 large eggs, separated
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup whole milk
- Three Milk Mixture:
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream
- Whipped Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional Garnishes:
- Cinnamon powder
- Fresh berries
- Caramel drizzle
Instructions
Make the Sponge Cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat egg yolks with ¾ cup sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Stir in vanilla extract and whole milk.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until combined.
- In another bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form.
- Slowly add the remaining ¼ cup sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold egg whites into the batter.
- Pour batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely.
Soak the Cake:
- In a bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk.
- Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the cake.
- Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the cake to absorb the liquid.
Make the Whipped Topping:
- In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread over the chilled cake.
Serve and Garnish:
- Sprinkle cinnamon over the top for extra flavor.
- Garnish with fresh berries or a caramel drizzle if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
How to Serve Tres Leches Cake
- Serve chilled for the best texture.
- Add a dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra flavor.
- Pair with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
How to Store Tres Leches Cake
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Keep covered to prevent the cake from drying out.
- Do not freeze, as the milk mixture may separate.
Tips to Make the Best Tres Leches Cake Recipe
- Use room-temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and airy.
- Let the cake chill overnight for the best flavor absorption.
Variations of Tres Leches Cake
- Chocolate Tres Leches Cake: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the batter.
- Coconut Tres Leches Cake: Replace whole milk with coconut milk.
- Dulce de Leche Tres Leches Cake: Drizzle dulce de leche on top before serving.
- Coffee Tres Leches Cake: Add 1 tsp espresso powder to the milk mixture.
FAQs About Tres Leches Cake Recipe
Why is my tres leches cake too soggy?
It may have been over-soaked—start with less milk and add more as needed.
Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
Yes, but homemade whipped cream gives the best texture and flavor.
How do I make my cake fluffier?
Beat egg whites separately and fold them in gently for an airy texture.
Conclusion
This Tres Leches Cake Recipe is rich, moist, and absolutely delicious. The combination of a fluffy sponge cake with a creamy milk soak makes it a perfect dessert for any celebration. For more creamy treats, check out this Tiramisu Dessert Recipe.