Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Tres Leches Cake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Latin American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Tres Leches Cake is a rich, moist sponge cake soaked in three types of milk—evaporated, condensed, and heavy cream—topped with a fluffy whipped cream topping.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 5 large eggs, separated
  • 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 pint heavy whipping cream (for topping)
  • 3 tbsp powdered sugar (for topping)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup sugar until pale and fluffy. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
  4. Gently mix the dry ingredients into the yolk mixture until just combined.
  5. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites to soft peaks, then gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
  6. Fold the egg whites gently into the batter until well incorporated.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  8. Let the cake cool completely in the pan. Poke holes all over the top using a fork.
  9. In a bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, condensed milk, and 1/4 cup heavy cream. Slowly pour over the cooled cake, allowing it to soak in.
  10. Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  11. To make the topping, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  12. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled cake. Serve cold and enjoy.

Notes

  • Let the cake sit overnight for best flavor and texture.
  • Top with fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
  • Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding the milk mixture to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 340
  • Sugar: 32g
  • Sodium: 130mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg