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Homemade Classic Tres Leches Cake photo

Classic Tres Leches Cake

This Classic Tres Leches Cake is a dreamy, creamy dessert that will wow your guests!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Latin American

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 5 large eggs separate whites from yolks
  • 1 cup granulated sugar divided into 3/4 and 1/4 cup
  • 0.5 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 ounces evaporated milk
  • 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
  • 0.33 cup whole milk
  • 4 cups heavy whipping cream cold
  • 2 envelopes whipped cream stabilizer optional
  • 0.33 cup powdered sugar more if you want it sweeter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Ground cinnamon for garnish
  • Sliced strawberries for garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9x13 inch baking dish to ensure easy removal of the cake later.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. Add the 1/2 cup of whole milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  4. Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the egg yolk mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
  5. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
  6. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cake batter, being careful to maintain the airiness of the mixture.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool on a wire rack.
  8. While the cake cools, combine the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and 1/3 cup of whole milk in a mixing bowl. Whisk until smooth.
  9. Once the cake has cooled, poke holes all over the top using a fork or toothpick. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in completely.
  10. In a chilled mixing bowl, combine the cold heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. If you’re using whipped cream stabilizer, add it now. Beat until soft peaks form.
  11. Spread the whipped cream over the top of the soaked cake. Garnish with sliced strawberries and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.

Notes

  • Make the cake a day in advance for better flavor.
  • Experiment with seasonal fruits for different toppings.
  • Store in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3-4 days.