Dessert

Tres Leches Cake Recipe

Name: Tres Leches Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (120 g); 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder (6 g); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 5 large eggs, separated; 1 cup granulated sugar, divided (200 g); 1/3 cup whole milk (80 ml); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml); 12 ounce can evaporated milk (354 ml); 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk (396 ml); 1/4 cup whole milk (60 ml); 1 pint heavy whipping cream (475 ml); 3 Tablespoons powdered sugar (24 g); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (2.5 ml); Ground cinnamon, for topping

ByThomas Greene November 7, 2025November 7, 2025

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Introduction

Tres Leches Cake is a moist, rich dessert soaked in three types of milk that creates a luscious texture and irresistible flavor. This classic Latin American treat is perfect for celebrations or a special indulgence any time of year.

A square piece of cake with two main layers sits on a white plate on a white marbled texture. The bottom layer is a moist, light yellow sponge cake with small air holes visible, while the top layer is a thick, white creamy frosting dusted with a light sprinkle of brown cinnamon powder. On top, a red strawberry, sliced thinly and fanned out, adds a bright splash of color. To the side, a silver fork rests on the plate, and in the background, a gray cloth and another strawberry are slightly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour (120 g)
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder (6 g)
1/4 teaspoon salt
5 large eggs, separated
1 cup granulated sugar, divided (200 g)
1/3 cup whole milk (80 ml)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
12 ounce can evaporated milk (354 ml)
14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk (396 ml)
1/4 cup whole milk (60 ml)
1 pint heavy whipping cream (475 ml)
3 tablespoons powdered sugar (24 g)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (2.5 ml)
Ground cinnamon, for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 2: Separate the eggs into two clean bowls—yolks in one, whites in the other.
Step 3: Add 3/4 cup sugar to the egg yolks and beat on high speed until pale yellow. Stir in 1/3 cup whole milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Gently fold this mixture into the flour mixture without over-mixing.
Step 4: Using electric beaters, whip egg whites on high until stiff peaks form, gradually adding the remaining 1/4 cup sugar during whipping. Fold the beaten egg whites gently into the batter, scraping the bowl’s sides and bottom until combined.
Step 5: Pour the batter into an ungreased baking pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 25–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
Step 6: In a small bowl, combine evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and 1/4 cup whole milk. Poke holes all over the cooled cake with a fork.
Step 7: Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake, especially near the edges to ensure even absorption. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to soak up the milk.
Step 8: Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the soaked cake and sprinkle with ground cinnamon. Serve chilled, optionally with fresh sliced strawberries.

Tips & Variations

For an extra touch, garnish with fresh berries or toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
Use a metal or glass pan instead of non-stick for better absorption of the milk mixture.
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the powdered sugar in the whipped cream topping.

Storage

Store the Tres Leches Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake will continue to soak up the milk and become even more flavorful. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled for best texture and taste.

How to Serve

The image shows a clear glass rectangular dish containing a dessert with three visible layers. The bottom layer is a moist, light yellow cake soaked with a creamy liquid that slightly pools at the bottom. Above this is a thick, white creamy layer, followed by a dusting of light brown cinnamon powder on top, with subtle swirl marks across the surface. A slice has been removed from the front right side, revealing these layers clearly, and a white spatula with a white handle rests in the empty space. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Traditional Tres Leches Cake relies on dairy milks for its signature texture and flavor, but you can substitute with plant-based milks such as coconut milk varieties for a dairy-free version, though the texture will vary.

How do I know when the cake has soaked enough?

The cake should feel moist and dense after refrigeration for at least one hour, but overnight soaking ensures the milk mixture fully penetrates the cake, giving it that classic Tres Leches softness.