Tres leches cake is a favorite dessert. It comes from Latin America. The name means “three milks” in Spanish. This version uses a box cake mix. It turns out moist and sweet. You can make it in under an hour of active time. Then it chills while you do other things. Serve it at parties or family dinners. Everyone loves the creamy layers.
What Is Tres Leches Cake?
This cake starts with a light base. You soak it in three types of milk. The milks are sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk. A whipped cream topping finishes it off. The result is soft but not soggy. It has a rich flavor. People often add fruit or cinnamon on top. This recipe keeps it simple with a cake mix. No need to bake from scratch.
Ingredients for Tres Leches Cake
Gather these items before you start. They serve 12 to 15 people.
For the Cake
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow or vanilla cake mix
- 1 cup whole milk (swap for the water in the box instructions)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Milk Soak
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Topping
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries or raspberries (about 1 cup, sliced)
- Ground cinnamon (a light sprinkle)
Use full-fat milk for the best texture. They help the cake stay firm.
How to Make Tres Leches Cake Step by Step
Follow these steps. Work in a cool kitchen. It helps with the whipped cream later.
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large bowl, beat the cake mix, milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Use a hand mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes. The batter should look smooth. Pour it into the pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. A toothpick in the center should come out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 20 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Milk Soak
Poke holes all over the cake. Use a fork or toothpick. Space them about 1/2 inch apart. In a bowl, whisk the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk. Pour it slowly over the cake. Tilt the pan to cover every spot. Cover the pan with plastic wrap. Put it in the fridge for at least 4 hours. Overnight works best. The cake will absorb the liquid.
Step 3: Make the Whipped Cream
Chill a mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla. Beat on high speed until stiff peaks form. This takes 2 to 3 minutes. Spread the cream over the chilled cake. Add sliced fruit and a dash of cinnamon.
Cut into squares. Serve cold. The cake holds up well on a plate.
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Tips to Get the Best Tres Leches Cake
- Pick a quality cake mix. Brands like Duncan Hines give a denser base. It soaks up milk without falling apart.
- Cool the cake fully before poking. Hot cake can make the milk run off.
- Pour the milk soak in stages. Wait a few minutes between pours. This lets it sink in.
- Chill the bowl for whipped cream. It whips up faster and thicker.
- Avoid overbeating the cream. Stop when peaks hold their shape. It turns to butter if you go too far.
- If the cake seems dry after baking, add an extra egg yolk to the batter next time.
These steps prevent common issues. Your cake will taste just right.
Ways to Vary Your Tres Leches Cake
Change it up to fit what you have.
- Fruit Options: Try pineapple chunks or mango slices instead of berries. Drain canned fruit well.
- Coconut Twist: Swap half the whole milk with coconut milk. Toast shredded coconut for the top.
- Chocolate Version: Mix 1/4 cup cocoa powder into the cake batter. Dust cocoa over the cream.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix. Check that your milks have no additives.
Keep the three-milk soak the same. It gives the classic taste.
How to Store Tres Leches Cake
Keep it in the fridge. Cover the pan with foil or plastic. It stays fresh for 3 to 4 days. The flavors get better on day two.
For freezing: Bake and cool the cake. Wrap it tight. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight. Add the milk soak and topping right before serving.
Do not freeze the soaked cake. The texture changes.
Common Questions About Tres Leches Cake with Cake Mix
Is tres leches cake soggy? No, if you follow the steps. The cake absorbs the milk like a sponge. It feels creamy, not wet.
Can I make this without eggs? Use an egg-free cake mix. Add 1/4 cup applesauce per egg in the batter. It keeps things moist.
How far ahead can I bake it? Up to 2 days. Bake the cake one day. Soak it the next. Add topping right before you serve.
What if I don’t have evaporated milk? Use more whole milk. It works, but the flavor is less rich.
Does it need all three milks? Yes. Each one adds a different sweetness and creaminess.
This recipe makes a dessert that impresses. Share it with friends. They will ask for seconds. Bake one soon and see.