Tres Leches Cake Recipe
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of tres leches cake, a traditional Latin American dessert that will captivate your taste buds. This cake is soaked in a blend of three different milks, resulting in a moist and flavorful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe will be a hit with everyone. Let’s dive into the details of making this heavenly dessert!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh berries for topping
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. Preparation time is around 20 minutes, and cooking time is 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g fat, 36g carbohydrates, and 5g protein. This is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a mixer, beat eggs and sugar until fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the egg mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- In a bowl, combine evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream.
- Once the cake is cool, poke holes with a fork and pour the milk mixture over it. Let it soak for at least 2 hours.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Additionally, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a vegan option.
Serving and Pairings
Tres leches cake is best served chilled, topped with fresh berries or whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This cake does not freeze well due to its moisture content, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture.
- Overbaking will lead to a dry cake.
- Skipping the soaking step results in a less flavorful cake.
- Using cold ingredients can prevent proper mixing.
- Not allowing the cake to cool can cause it to break apart.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Let the cake sit overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Experiment with different toppings like chocolate or nuts.
- Keep the cake covered to maintain moisture.
FAQs
Can I make tres leches cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Just ensure to cover it well to maintain moisture. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight.
Can I use different types of milk?
Absolutely! You can mix and match different types of milk, such as coconut milk or almond milk, for a unique flavor profile.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake it.
Why is my cake too soggy?
A soggy cake can result from too much soaking liquid. Adjust the amount of milk mixture to your taste preference.
Can tres leches cake be frozen?
It’s not recommended to freeze tres leches cake due to its high moisture content, which can affect the texture when thawed.
Conclusion
Tres leches cake is a delightful dessert that offers a unique blend of flavors and textures. Its moistness and sweetness make it a perfect treat for any gathering. Try this recipe, and enjoy a slice of heaven with family and friends!

Tres Leches Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 can 12 oz evaporated milk
- 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh berries for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a mixer, beat eggs and sugar until fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the egg mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- In a bowl, combine evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream.
- Once the cake is cool, poke holes with a fork and pour the milk mixture over it. Let it soak for at least 2 hours.