Tres Leches Cake

Name: Tres Leches Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream

Published: December 5, 2025

by samuel cullingham

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Tres Leches Cake:

All-Purpose Flour: This is the foundation of our cake. Choose unbleached flour for better flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cake perfectly; feel free to adjust to taste.
Baking Powder: Essential for that fluffy texture; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
Eggs: Large eggs help bind everything together; room temperature works best.
Whole Milk: The base for soaking your cake—richness is key here!
Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and moisture; it’s what makes this cake truly special.
Evaporated Milk: Provides a creamy texture; don’t skip this!
Vanilla Extract: A splash adds warmth and depth to flavor; pure vanilla is always preferred.
Heavy Cream: For whipping into luscious frosting—go all out here!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Tres Leches Cake:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a rectangular baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This dry mix will create the base of your fluffy cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Add in whole milk and vanilla extract, mixing well until everything is blended smoothly.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into your wet ingredients while stirring gently until just combined—no overmixing allowed! Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center. Let cool completely before soaking!

Step 6: Prepare Soaking Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, condensed milk, and remaining whole milk until smooth. Poke holes all over your cooled cake using a fork or skewers to allow it to soak up all that milky goodness.

To serve it right, drizzle with whipped heavy cream on top and garnish with fresh fruits if desired. Enjoy every luscious bite of this heavenly Tres Leches Cake!

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Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with your Tres Leches Cake, start by baking the cake until golden brown. While it cools, mix the three milks in a bowl. Once cooled, soak the cake in the milk mixture for maximum flavor.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Tres Leches Cake to suit your taste! Add a splash of vanilla extract or rum for an extra kick. You can also incorporate fresh fruits like strawberries or mangoes for a fruity twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Tres Leches Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to enjoy it warm, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

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The first time I made Tres Leches Cake, my family devoured it so fast I barely had time to snap a picture! Their delighted faces were worth every effort, making it a go-to dessert for every gathering since then.

FAQs

What is Tres Leches Cake?

Tres Leches Cake is a popular Latin American dessert known for its moist and rich texture. The name translates to “three milks,” which refers to the three types of milk used in the recipe: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and whole milk or cream. This cake is typically made with a light sponge base that absorbs the milk mixture, creating a luscious treat. Often topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, Tres Leches Cake is a favorite at celebrations and gatherings.

How do you make Tres Leches Cake?

Making Tres Leches Cake involves several steps, starting with preparing the sponge cake. You’ll need eggs, sugar, flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract. After baking the cake, let it cool before soaking it in a mixture of evaporated milk, condensed milk, and whole milk. Allow the cake to absorb this creamy mixture for several hours or overnight. Finally, top it off with whipped cream and your choice of fruits for a delightful finish.

What variations can I try with Tres Leches Cake?

There are many delicious variations of Tres Leches Cake to explore. You can add flavors like cocoa powder for a chocolate version or incorporate fruits such as berries or mangoes into the batter. Some recipes even include spices like cinnamon or vanilla bean for added depth. Experimenting with different toppings like nuts or caramel sauce can also create unique twists on this classic dessert.

Why is Tres Leches Cake so popular?

Tres Leches Cake’s popularity stems from its incredible flavor and moist texture. The combination of three types of milk makes it irresistibly creamy, while its sponge base provides an airy contrast. Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed at various occasions, from birthdays to holidays. Additionally, the cake’s cultural significance in many Latin American countries contributes to its widespread appeal around the world.

Conclusion

In summary, Tres Leches Cake is a delightful dessert that combines three types of milk to achieve its signature moistness. Whether you choose to stick with the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this cake is sure to impress your guests. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, Tres Leches Cake stands out as a beloved treat across cultures. Give this recipe a try for your next celebration!

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