Tres Leches Cake

Quick Benefits

  • Ultra Moist & Creamy: Soaked in three types of milk, this cake offers unmatched richness and tenderness.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping the day before parties or gatherings.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: A Latin American favorite that always earns rave reviews.
  • Versatile Toppings: Pairs beautifully with fruit, cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel.

Essential Ingredients

  • Dry Ingredients:
    • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 2 tsp baking powder
    • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Cake Base:
    • 5 large eggs, separated
    • 1 cup white sugar, divided
    • 2 tsp vanilla extract
    • 1/2 cup milk
  • Milk Soak (Tres Leches):
    • 2/3 cup whole milk
    • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
    • 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
  • Whipped Topping:
    • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
    • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Preparation Steps

  1. Preheat & Prep Pan:
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch cake pan.
  2. Dry Mix:
    In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Yolk Mixture:
    Beat egg yolks with 3/4 cup sugar until fluffy. Stir in vanilla and milk.
  4. Combine Batter:
    Gradually mix dry ingredients into the yolk mixture until smooth.
  5. Whip Egg Whites:
    In another bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. Add remaining 1/4 cup sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
  6. Fold Gently:
    Carefully fold egg whites into the batter until well combined.
  7. Bake:
    Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Soak the Cake:
    Cool the cake. Poke holes with a fork and slowly pour in the three-milk mixture.
  9. Chill:
    Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  10. Make the Whipped Topping:
    Beat cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
  11. Frost & Serve:
    Spread whipped cream on top and garnish with cinnamon or fruit.

Health Benefits

  • Calcium-Rich: Thanks to the multiple dairy ingredients.
  • High Protein: Eggs and milk offer a solid protein punch.
  • Mood Booster: Sweet, creamy desserts can elevate your mood—especially when shared.

Serving Suggestions

  • Classic Style: Serve chilled with a dusting of cinnamon.
  • Fruit Topped: Add sliced strawberries, kiwi, or raspberries for freshness.
  • Drizzle Love: For extra indulgence, drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce.
  • Pairing Drink: Best served with black coffee, café con leche, or hot tea.

Creative Variations

  • Coconut Twist: Add 1/2 tsp coconut extract to the milk soak and top with toasted coconut.
  • Chocolate Tres Leches: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and top with chocolate shavings.
  • Nutty Delight: Sprinkle crushed pistachios or pecans over the whipped cream.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerator: Keep the cake covered in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.
  • Freezing Not Recommended: Due to the moisture, freezing may alter the texture.
  • Make Ahead: Best flavor develops overnight—perfect to prepare the day before.

Pro Tips

  • Always cool the cake completely before pouring the milk mixture.
  • Use a fork to poke lots of small holes so the cake absorbs the liquid evenly.
  • Beat the whipped cream just until soft peaks form—don’t overwhip!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a boxed cake mix?
A: Yes, a yellow or white cake mix works in a pinch, but homemade gives the best flavor and texture.

Q: Can I make this cake without eggs?
A: It’s possible with egg substitutes, but the texture may differ. Try using aquafaba for whipping as an egg white alternative.

Q: Can I reduce the sweetness?
A: Yes! You can slightly reduce the sugar in the batter or use less sweetened condensed milk in the soak.

Q: What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
A: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – based on 12 servings)

  • Calories: ~370
  • Carbohydrates: 41g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Sugar: 32g
  • Calcium: 180mg

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