Treat yourself to a slice of Mexico with the all-time favorite Tres Leches Cake! Picture this: a super-soft sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk, topped with light, fluffy whipped cream, and finished off with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and just-right sweetness, it’s no surprise this dessert is a star at Mexican celebrations—and loved around the world.
Whether you love baking, want to add a little cultural flair to your blog, or just can’t get enough of Mexican food, this recipe is your chance to dive into desserts that are as soulful as they are delicious.
Why You Should Try This Authentic Mexican Tres Leches Cake Recipe
This isn’t just dessert—it’s an experience. Tres Leches Cake is pure comfort, nostalgia, and tradition all wrapped into one. The name “tres leches” means “three milks,” and it’s all about that dreamy combo of evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream that turns a basic sponge cake into something magical.
Here’s why you should roll up your sleeves and bake this treat:
- A slice of heritage: This cake connects you to the vibrant culinary traditions of Mexico.
- Show-stopping dessert: It’s as beautiful to present as it is delicious to taste, making it perfect for gatherings or dinner parties.
- Beginner-friendly recipe: You don’t need advanced baking skills to create this masterpiece.
Trust us—one bite, and you’ll find yourself craving its creamy, airy perfection again and again.
Ingredients Needed for this Mexican Tres Leches Cake
Before we begin, gather these kitchen staples and a few specialty ingredients to create this indulgence.
For the Cake
- 1 cup (125g) of all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup (200g) of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
For the Tres Leches Mixture
- 1 cup (240ml) of evaporated milk
- 1 cup (240ml) of sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup (120ml) of heavy cream
For the Topping
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: Fresh strawberries, sliced peaches, cinnamon, or a light drizzle of caramel.
Equipment Needed
The magic of Tres Leches Cake can unfold smoothly with just a few everyday kitchen essentials:
- A 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mixing bowls.
- A hand or stand mixer.
- A whisk and spatula.
- Optional: A toothpick for testing the cake and poking holes for milk.
Recipe for Authentic Mexican Tres Leches Cake
This tried-and-tested recipe guarantees a soft, spongy cake that absorbs the milky mixture like a dream. Each bite will transport you to a vibrant Mexican kitchen.
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so the cake doesn’t stick. Mix the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, and salt—in a bowl. In another bowl, mix the sugar and butter until creamy, then add the eggs one at a time. Slowly mix the dry and wet ingredients together until the batter is smooth with no lumps. This is the base for your Tres Leches Cake.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely before serving. This cake will be soft but firm, perfect for soaking up the tres leches mixture.
Step 3: Prepare the Tres Leches Mixture
To make the special mix, combine three types of milk—sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream—in a bowl or large cup. Stir well until it’s smooth. This creamy mix will give the cake its rich and delicious flavor. Get ready to turn your cake into an amazing dessert with this tasty mixture.
Step 4: Poke and Pour the Milk Mixture
Once your cake has cooled, use a toothpick, skewer, or fork to poke small holes all over the top. These holes let the milk mixture soak into the cake, making every bite soft and tasty. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Let the cake sit for a while to fully absorb the liquid—this is what gives Tres Leches Cake its soft, creamy texture.
Step 5: Whipped Topping and Final Touches
For the final step, whip heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla until it forms soft peaks. Spread this creamy topping over the soaked cake, making a smooth, fluffy layer.
To make it look nice, sprinkle with cinnamon or add fresh fruit like strawberries or cherries. Chill the cake in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors come together for a perfect dessert.
Authentic Mexican Tres Leches Cake Recipe
Equipment
- A 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- A hand or stand mixer.
- A whisk and spatula.
- Optional: A toothpick for testing the cake and poking holes for milk.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup 125g of all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup 200g of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
For the Tres Leches Mixture
- 1 cup 240ml of evaporated milk
- 1 cup 240ml of sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup 120ml of heavy cream
For the Topping
- 1 cup 240ml heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: Fresh strawberries sliced peaches, cinnamon, or a light drizzle of caramel.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so the cake doesn’t stick. Mix the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, and salt—in a bowl. In another bowl, mix the sugar and butter until creamy, then add the eggs one at a time. Slowly mix the dry and wet ingredients together until the batter is smooth with no lumps. This is the base for your Tres Leches Cake.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into a baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in a preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely before serving. This cake will be soft but firm, perfect for soaking up the tres leches mixture.
Step 3: Prepare the Tres Leches Mixture
- To make the special mix, combine three types of milk—sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream—in a bowl or large cup. Stir well until it’s smooth. This creamy mix will give the cake its rich and delicious flavor. Get ready to turn your cake into an amazing dessert with this tasty mixture.
Step 4: Poke and Pour the Milk Mixture
- Once your cake has cooled, use a toothpick, skewer, or fork to poke small holes all over the top. These holes let the milk mixture soak into the cake, making every bite soft and tasty. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Let the cake sit for a while to fully absorb the liquid—this is what gives Tres Leches Cake its soft, creamy texture.
Step 5: Whipped Topping and Final Touches
- For the final step, whip heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla until it forms soft peaks. Spread this creamy topping over the soaked cake, making a smooth, fluffy layer.
Notes
Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Tres Leches Cake
I know we’re all excited to try this amazing dessert, so here are some pro tips to make sure your Tres Leches Cake turns out perfect every time:
- Use room-temperature ingredients: Ensure eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better consistency in the batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Gently mix the ingredients to keep the cake light and fluffy, avoiding a dense texture.
- Pierce the cake thoroughly: Use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the cake, allowing the milk mixture to fully soak in for ultimate moistness.
- Refrigerate overnight: While chilling for an hour is good, leaving the cake in the fridge overnight enhances the flavor and texture even more.
- Decorate just before serving: Add fresh fruits, whipped cream, or garnishes like grated chocolate right before serving to keep everything vibrant and fresh.
- Use a light hand with the milk mixture: Pour the milk mixture gradually so the cake absorbs it fully without overflowing or becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Tres Leches Cake is traditionally served cold, making it the ideal dessert for warm evenings or festive occasions. Here are some creative serving ideas:
- Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a classic touch.
- Garnish with a selection of fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor.
- Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce to elevate the decadence.
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the rich, creamy texture.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of iced tea for the perfect contrast.
FAQ
Can I make Tres Leches Cake ahead of time?
Yes, Tres Leches Cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Allowing it to chill for several hours or overnight enhances the flavors as the cake absorbs the milk mixture, making it even more delicious.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour. Ensure all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.
How long will it last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, Tres Leches Cake will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days. Keep it covered to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Can I use non-dairy milks?
Yes, you can use non-dairy milks such as almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. However, the flavor and texture may vary slightly compared to the traditional recipe.
Can I freeze Tres Leches Cake?
Freezing Tres Leches Cake is not recommended, as the texture may change significantly once thawed. The milk mixture can separate and create a less desirable consistency. It is best enjoyed fresh or after being refrigerated for a few days.
Can I add toppings to the cake?
Yes! You can top this cake with fresh fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or mango for more flavor. You can also add a little cinnamon or drizzle caramel sauce for extra sweetness and a nice look.
What is the best way to serve Tres Leches Cake?
Tres Leches Cake is best served chilled, as the cool creamy texture enhances its rich flavors. Slice it into squares and serve on a plate with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh fruit for a delightful presentation.
Can I make individual servings?
Yes, you can create individual servings by baking the batter in small ramekins or muffin tins. Adjust the baking time accordingly and pour the milk mixture over each portion separately for perfectly portioned desserts.
Does the type of pan affect the cake?
It’s best to use a glass or ceramic dish for Tres Leches Cake because they keep the cake moist and hold its shape. Don’t use dark metal pans, as they can bake the cake unevenly or change its texture.
