There’s nothing quite like the experience of digging into a slice of tres leches cake—a heavenly dessert that’s as soft as a cloud and drenched in milky goodness. Picture this: the moment your fork glides through the moist layers, releasing a sweet aroma that dances around your senses. That first bite? Pure magic! It’s a celebration of flavors that swirl together like they’re dancing at a fiesta, making it the perfect treat for birthdays, holidays, or simply because it’s Tuesday.
I remember the first time I whipped up this tres leches cake recipe with box cake mix. My friends gathered around, each one eagerly anticipating their first taste. Their eyes lit up like Christmas lights as they took their first bite; it was a moment of pure joy! Now, every time I make it, I’m reminded of how this delightful dessert can turn an ordinary day into something extraordinary.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This tres leches cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice bakers and experienced pros
- The flavor is a delightful combination of sweet and creamy with hints of vanilla and cinnamon
- Its beautiful layered appearance will impress anyone you serve it to
- This cake is versatile enough to be enjoyed at any occasion or even as a simple weeknight treat
I once made tres leches cake for my mom’s birthday, and her delighted expression said it all.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Box Cake Mix: Any classic vanilla or yellow cake mix works beautifully here; it’s all about convenience!
Eggs: Use large eggs for the best texture; they help give structure to the cake.
Whole Milk: Full-fat milk adds richness and ensures the cake stays moist after soaking.
Condensed Milk: This sweet ingredient gives the cake its signature flavor; choose high-quality brands for optimal taste.
Evaporated Milk: Adds creaminess; don’t skip this step if you want that authentic tres leches texture.
Heavy Whipping Cream: For the frosting! Whip until fluffy and peaks form for a light topping.
Sugar: A touch of granulated sugar enhances sweetness in your whipped cream.
Cinnamon (optional): A sprinkle adds depth; consider adding some to your milk mixture for extra flair.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Cake Base: Preheat your oven according to package instructions for the box cake mix. Grease your baking pan lightly with nonstick spray before pouring in the batter.
Bake It Up!: Bake according to package directions until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean—about 25-30 minutes typically. Enjoy the heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Create The Soaking Mixture: While the cake cools, combine whole milk, condensed milk, and evaporated milk in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. The smell will have you dreaming of dessert already!
Poke Holes Galore!: Once cooled completely, take a skewer or fork and poke holes all over that beautiful cake—don’t be shy! This allows the milky goodness to seep in like magic.
Pour on The Goodness!: Slowly pour that glorious soaking mixture all over the poked cake. Let it soak for at least an hour in the fridge so every bite is infused with flavor.
Whip Up Some Creamy Frosting!: In another bowl, beat heavy whipping cream with sugar until fluffy peaks form—this will be your light topping! Spread generously over your soaked cake once chilled.
Now your tres leches masterpiece is ready to shine! Slice yourself a piece (or two) and watch as everyone gathers around for their share of blissful delight. Enjoy every bit of this creamy treat—you’ve earned it!
You Must Know
- This tres leches cake recipe with box cake is a game-changer for anyone craving a delicious dessert
- It’s incredibly easy to make and allows for endless customization, ensuring every bite is a taste of heaven
- Perfect for celebrations or just because you deserve a treat!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the ideal tres leches cake, first bake the box cake as directed. Once cooled, poke holes in it using a fork before pouring the milk mixture on top to soak evenly.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding flavored extracts like vanilla or almond to the milk mixture for extra depth. You can also fold in whipped cream for added fluffiness or top with fresh fruits for a burst of color.
Storing & Reheating
Store your tres leches cake covered in the fridge to keep it moist and flavorful. If reheating is necessary, serve cold or at room temperature; do not microwave as it may dry out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use full-fat evaporated and condensed milk for richer taste
- Allow the cake to soak overnight for the best flavor absorption
- A sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate your dessert beautifully, adding warmth and spice
Sharing this tres leches cake recipe with friends always leads to happy faces; I once brought it to a potluck, and it vanished faster than my willpower at dessert time!
FAQ
What makes tres leches cake so special?
Tres leches cake is unique due to its rich three-milk soaking mixture that creates an incredibly moist texture.
Can I use homemade cake instead of box cake?
Absolutely! A homemade sponge can elevate your tres leches cake recipe with box cake even further.
How long does tres leches cake last in the fridge?
This delightful treat stays fresh in the fridge for up to five days if stored properly.
Tres Leches Cake
Tres leches cake is a luscious dessert that will transport you to dessert paradise with every bite. This easy-to-make recipe combines a moist vanilla cake soaked in a rich mixture of three types of milk, topped with fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply indulging yourself, this cake promises joy and delight at any gathering. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this tres leches cake is sure to impress everyone around the table.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven according to the box cake mix instructions and lightly grease your baking pan.
- Prepare the cake batter as directed on the box and bake until golden brown (about 25-30 minutes). Let it cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, combine whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk until smooth.
- Poke holes in the cooled cake using a fork or skewer and pour the milk mixture evenly over it. Refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Whip heavy cream with sugar until soft peaks form and spread over the chilled cake before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
