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Tres Leches Cake

Tres Leches Cake

The Crispy Chef
This Tres Leches Cake is a soft, airy sponge soaked in a luscious three-milk mixture and topped with whipped cream. It's incredibly moist, flavorful, and simple to make — perfect for celebrations or family traditions.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 12
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13 baking pan
  • Electric mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Fork or skewer
  • Sifter

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 cup butter softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 5 eggs room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Tres Leches Mixture:

  • 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 can 12 oz evaporated milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream

For the Topping:

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch pan.
  • Sift the flour and baking powder three times for extra fluffiness.
  • In a mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla.
  • Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Pour the batter into the greased pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let the cake cool completely, then poke holes all over the surface using a fork or skewer.
  • In a bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream.
  • Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, letting it absorb between pours. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  • Whip the cream, sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread over chilled cake before serving.

Notes

For dairy-free version, substitute coconut or almond milk (note: texture will change).
Make ahead the night before for best flavor and texture.
Customize with toppings like fruit, caramel, or lime zest.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 7gFat: 26g
Keyword tres leches cake
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