Imagine slicing into a fluffy, cloud-like cake that practically oozes creamy milk goodness with every bite—welcome to the world of easy tres leches cake. This delightful dessert, drenched in three kinds of milk, is like a sweet hug for your taste buds, perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because you need a little pick-me-up after a long day.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is an easy tres leches cake recipe?
- How long does easy tres leches cake last?
- Can I make easy tres leches cake ahead of time?
Growing up, my abuela would whip up her famous easy tres leches cake for family gatherings, and the mere smell of vanilla and caramelized sugar wafting through the house would send us all into a frenzy. It was more than just dessert; it was a reason to gather around the table, share stories, and savor those moments that tasted like love. So grab your mixing bowls and prepare for a flavor explosion that will transport you back to those sunny afternoons filled with laughter and joy!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy tres leches cake is a breeze to whip up, even if your baking skills are on par with a toddler
- Each bite is a heavenly explosion of creamy goodness that will have you dreaming of dessert for breakfast
- With its dreamy layers soaking in three types of milk, this cake is practically begging for a place on your Instagram feed
- Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just having a Tuesday that needs jazzing up, this cake fits perfectly into any occasion
I still remember my grandmother’s smile when I surprised her with this easy tres leches cake for her birthday.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy tres leches cake:
All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality all-purpose flour for a light and fluffy cake base.
Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh to achieve the perfect rise in your cake.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness; consider using a bit less if you prefer a less sweet cake.
Large Eggs: Fresh eggs are vital for structure; try to use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
Whole Milk: Full-fat milk enhances the moisture content of the cake, making it rich and delicious.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is key to the tres leches concept; find a good quality brand for best results.
Evaporated Milk: Use this alongside the condensed milk for that signature creamy texture.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract will give your cake a lovely aroma and deep flavor.
Ground Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon adds warmth; adjust according to your personal taste preference.
Whipped Cream: Freshly whipped cream on top completes the dessert beautifully with its lightness.
Fresh Berries (optional): Consider adding strawberries or blueberries as a garnish for color and flavor contrast.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Cake Batter: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients until well mixed. In a separate bowl, beat 3 large eggs with 1 cup of sugar until the mixture turns pale and fluffy—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, folding gently to keep the batter light and airy.
Bake the Cake: Pour your batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. The cake should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed. Allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Create the Tres Leches Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of evaporated milk, 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, and 1 cup of whole milk. This combination gives your easy tres leches cake its signature richness. You can add a splash of vanilla extract for added flavor. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the cake.
Add the Milk Mixture: Once your cake is completely cooled, poke holes all over the surface using a fork or skewer; this allows the milk mixture to soak in beautifully. Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake, letting it absorb for at least an hour in the refrigerator. This step is crucial for achieving that moist texture characteristic of tres leches cake.
Whip Up Some Topping: While your cake soaks, whip together 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of sugar until soft peaks form. This will create a light and fluffy topping that contrasts wonderfully with the soaked cake. If desired, you can fold in some vanilla extract for extra flavor just before spreading it on top.
Serve and Enjoy!: After allowing your cake to chill for at least two hours, spread an even layer of whipped cream over it. Garnish with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon if you like—a delightful touch! Slice into squares and enjoy each bite of this irresistible easy tres leches cake with family and friends.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature eggs for a fluffier cake; they incorporate better and help achieve that light texture
- When soaking the cake, pour the milk mixture slowly to allow it to absorb evenly without becoming soggy
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or cinnamon to your milk mixture; it elevates the taste beautifully
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make an easy tres leches cake, start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the cake bakes for about 30 minutes, prepare the milk mixture. Once the cake cools, soak it in the milk blend for at least two hours for optimal flavor absorption. Finally, top with whipped cream and enjoy!
Add Your Touch
Get creative with your easy tres leches cake! Swap out the vanilla for almond extract for a unique flavor twist. Consider adding fresh fruit like strawberries or mangoes on top. You can even mix in chocolate chips or nuts to personalize each slice to your liking. Enjoy experimenting!
Storing & Reheating
To store your easy tres leches cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to four days. For reheating, serve it cold or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying the moist cake and flavors.
FAQ
What is an easy tres leches cake recipe?
An easy tres leches cake recipe is a simple version of the traditional Mexican dessert soaked in three types of milk.
How long does easy tres leches cake last?
Easy tres leches cake can last up to five days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
Can I make easy tres leches cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make easy tres leches cake a day in advance for enhanced flavor and moisture.
Easy Tres Leches Cake
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Use high-quality flour for a light and fluffy cake base.
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the perfect rise.
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar Adjust amount for sweetness preference.
- 3 large Eggs Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- 1 cup Whole Milk Full-fat milk enhances moisture.
Tres Leches Mixture
- 1 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk Key to the tres leches concept.
- 1 cup Evaporated Milk Provides signature creamy texture.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Adds aroma and flavor.
- 1 pinch Ground Cinnamon Adjust according to taste.
Topping
- 1 cup Whipped Cream Freshly whipped cream completes the dessert.
- Fresh Berries (optional) Strawberries or blueberries for garnish.
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until mixed. In another bowl, beat eggs with sugar until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, folding gently.
Bake the Cake
- Pour batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack.
Create the Tres Leches Mixture
- In a medium bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk. Add a splash of vanilla extract for flavor. Set aside.
Add the Milk Mixture
- Once the cake is cooled, poke holes in the top and pour the tres leches mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
Serve
- Top with whipped cream and garnish with fresh berries if desired. Enjoy!
