Delicious Layered Tres Leches Cake Recipe

Name: Layered Tres Leches Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: All-Purpose Flour; Baking Powder; Sugar; Eggs; Whole Milk; Evaporated Milk; Sweetened Condensed Milk; Heavy Cream; Vanilla Extract

Published: February 11, 2025

by Liora

Why You’ll Love This Layered Tres Leches Cake

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Layered Tres Leches Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating a light and fluffy cake texture.
Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Sugar: Adds sweetness; adjust according to your preference.
Eggs: Provides structure; use large eggs at room temperature for optimal mixing.
Whole Milk: Used in the batter for moisture; opt for full-fat for richness.
Evaporated Milk: One of the three milks that gives the cake its signature flavor.
Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and density; do not substitute with anything else.
Heavy Cream: Used in soaking the cake; its richness enhances flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Provides depth of flavor; use pure vanilla extract if possible.
Cinnamon Powder: Optional but adds warmth; sprinkle on top before serving for extra aroma.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Layered Tres Leches Cake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a rectangular baking dish with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine flour and baking powder. In another bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until fluffy. Gradually add flour mixture while alternating with milk until well combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the greased baking dish. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely.

Step 4: Soak the Cake

Once cooled, poke holes throughout the cake using a fork. In a separate bowl, mix evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. Pour this mixture evenly over the cake.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Spread whipped cream over the soaked cake evenly.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least two hours before serving. Slice into squares and optionally sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Easier Soaking: Make sure to soak your cake while it’s still slightly warm for better absorption.
Add Some Flavor: Consider infusing your milks with flavors like coconut or almond extract.
Presentation Matters: For an elegant look, decorate with fresh fruit or chocolate shavings on top.
Make Ahead Option: This dessert tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge!

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How to Serve Layered Tres Leches Cake

This Layered Tres Leches Cake is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Fresh Berries: The tartness of berries balances the sweetness of the cake, creating a delightful contrast.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream enhances the creamy texture and adds a light touch to each slice.
Coffee or Espresso: The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness, making for a perfect pairing after dinner.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Tips and tricks

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Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can prepare the cake a day in advance. Bake and cool the cake, then soak it in the milk mixture. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure it is well covered to prevent it from drying out.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cake, microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until just warmed through. Avoid overheating to maintain its moist texture.

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Suggestions for Layered Tres Leches Cake

Avoid Skipping the Soaking Step

One common mistake when making Layered Tres Leches Cake is skipping the soaking step. This is crucial because the cake needs to absorb the three types of milk to achieve its signature moistness. If you don’t let the cake soak long enough, it will turn out dry and crumbly instead of rich and creamy. After assembling your cake layers with the milks, be patient! Allow it to soak for at least a few hours, preferably overnight. This ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor and moisture, providing that delightful experience everyone loves.

Don’t Use the Wrong Cake Type

Using the wrong type of cake can ruin your Layered Tres Leches Cake. Ideally, you should use a light sponge cake or a vanilla chiffon cake for optimal absorption of the milk mixture. Avoid using dense cakes like pound cake, as they won’t absorb the milks properly and will result in a heavy texture. Make sure to bake your base layer correctly so it can hold up while soaking in all that delicious tres leches mixture without falling apart. Stick to tried-and-true recipes for the best results.

Skip Over Whipping Cream Topping

Another mistake is overlooking the whipped cream topping. A well-made whipped cream adds a light finish to your Layered Tres Leches Cake and balances its richness. If you skip this step or use store-bought frosting, you may end up with a dessert that tastes overly sweet or lacks texture contrast. Take time to whip fresh cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold in sugar and vanilla. Spread this heavenly topping generously over your soaked layers for an eye-catching presentation and a delightful taste.

Forget About Flavor Variations

Layered Tres Leches Cake offers a blank canvas for various flavor profiles but many people stick to traditional recipes without experimenting. Don’t be afraid to infuse flavors into your milk mixture by adding vanilla extract, cocoa powder, or even fruit purees like mango or strawberry. By bringing unique ingredients into play, you can elevate this classic dessert into something extraordinary while still maintaining its beloved essence. Embrace creativity and make your version of layered tres leches unforgettable.

FAQs

What makes Layered Tres Leches Cake unique?

Layered Tres Leches Cake stands out due to its unique soaking method and three types of milk involved—evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. These ingredients create an incredibly moist texture that differentiates it from other cakes. The cake absorbs these milks after baking, leading to rich flavors that captivate anyone who tastes it. Additionally, it often features whipped cream on top and can include various flavor variations, making each creation special in its own right.

How long should I let my cake soak?

For optimal results with Layered Tres Leches Cake, aim to let your cake soak for at least four hours or preferably overnight. This allows ample time for the milks to penetrate every layer thoroughly, ensuring maximum moisture and flavor absorption throughout the entire cake structure. If you’re short on time, even two hours will suffice but keep in mind that longer soaking yields a more indulgent experience with every slice.

Can I prepare Layered Tres Leches Cake in advance?

Yes! Layered Tres Leches Cake actually benefits from being made in advance since it requires time for soaking. You can prepare the cake layers one day ahead and let them soak overnight for best results. Once assembled with whipped cream topping, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it. This not only enhances flavors but also allows you more flexibility when planning your gathering.

How do I store leftovers of Layered Tres Leches Cake?

Leftover Layered Tres Leches Cake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and moisture levels. It’s best enjoyed within three days; however, thanks to its wet ingredients, it can last about five days if stored properly. As always with desserts containing dairy products like whipped cream, keeping them chilled is essential for food safety as well as flavor preservation.

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Conclusion for Layered Tres Leches Cake

Creating a perfect Layered Tres Leches Cake involves careful attention at each stage from baking to soaking and topping preparation. Avoid common mistakes such as skipping soaking time or using dense cakes which compromise texture and taste. Remember that experimenting with flavors can elevate this beloved dessert even further! By following these tips along with proper storage methods for leftovers, you’ll ensure that your tres leches remains delightful for days to come. Enjoy every moist bite of this decadent treat that celebrates rich tradition while leaving room for personal flair!

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