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The Best Tres Leches Cake Recipe

The Best Tres Leches Cake Recipe


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4.5 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Rich Mexican tres leches cake blends creamy milk-soaked sponge with delicate layers of sweetness. Smooth whipped cream and a hint of cinnamon elevate this classic dessert, inviting you to savor each luxurious bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 can (12 ounces / 340 grams) evaporated milk
  • 1 can (14 ounces / 397 grams) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 pint (473 milliliters) heavy whipping cream

Liquid and Baking Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup (79 milliliters) whole milk
  • 1/4 cup (59 milliliters) whole milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar or powdered sugar
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Fresh strawberries

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350°F and coating a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray for easy cake removal.
  2. Blend flour, baking powder, and salt thoroughly in a large mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution of dry ingredients.
  3. Carefully separate egg whites and yolks into two distinct bowls, maintaining clean separation.
  4. Whip egg yolks with sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture transforms into a pale, creamy yellow. Introduce whole milk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
  5. Gently integrate the egg yolk mixture into the flour blend, stirring minimally to prevent dense texture.
  6. Whisk egg whites, initially creating soft peaks, then gradually incorporate remaining sugar. Continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form without overworking the mixture.
  7. Delicately fold whipped egg whites into the batter using a spatula, maintaining airy consistency. Transfer batter to prepared pan, spreading evenly.
  8. Bake for 25-35 minutes until a toothpick emerges clean when inserted into the center. Allow cake to cool completely within the pan.

Notes

  • Ensure zero egg yolk contamination when separating eggs, as even a tiny amount can prevent egg whites from reaching maximum volume during whipping.
  • Allow eggs and milk to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting, which helps create a smoother, more consistent cake batter.
  • Use a wide spatula and fold egg whites with delicate, sweeping motions to maintain their airiness, preventing deflation and maintaining the cake’s light texture.
  • For lactose-intolerant individuals, substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, which can provide unique flavor variations while maintaining moisture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 32 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 105 mg