This authentic tres leches cake recipe is made with a vanilla sponge cake soaked in a three milk mixture and topped with a luscious whipped topping!

5 hr 50 min
cook 20 min
12
Tres Leches Cake Recipe
Servings

Notes

  • Cake Flour: Cake flour contains less protein than all-purpose flour and will create a fluffier, more tender cake. Substituting all-purpose flour will affect the texture of the cake. If you do not have cake flour or can’t get it, make this substitution: whisk together ¾ cup sifted all-purpose flour + 2 tablespoons cornstarch for each cup of cake flour. Half & Half: This is a dairy product sold in the U.S. If you cannot get it where you live, substitute equal amounts whole milk and heavy cream (or all heavy cream for an even richer cake). Thin Cake: You’ll notice when the cake comes out of the oven that it is not exceptionally high, but don’t worry! Once it absorbs all of that liquid, it will plump up beautifully. Poking Holes: Try not to hit the bottom of the pan when you poke your holes, which will keep the most liquid in the cake. Some will naturally seep out as it soaks, but by not penetrating the bottom of the cake, you keep the most liquid possible inside the cake. Pour Slowly! When pouring the milk mixture over the poked holes of the cake, go as slowly as possible. If you rush the process, the cake won’t be able to absorb everything. Even if it takes you 10 to 15 minutes, take it slowly. Drizzle a little bit evenly over the surface, let it sink in, then do a bit more. It is well worth the patience! Serving Suggestions: You can serve the cake as is, chilled of course. In Mexico, an authentic tres leches cake recipe isn't as sweet as this one, so in Mexico, they serve it with slices of fresh fruit on top; most often, slices of strawberries, peaches, mangos, and pineapple. Toasted coconut and pecans are also popular toppings. Storage: The cake can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days. Make-Ahead: This is a fabulous make-ahead recipe because it needs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours after you pour over the milk mixture, and overnight is even better! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend serving it the day after the milk mixture is poured over, but leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for another couple of days. Freezing Instructions: You can freeze the plain cake after it has baked, but not the soaked, assembled cake (it would be too mushy). To freeze the cake, cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then proceed with the recipe to poke holes, pour the milk mixture, and top with whipped cream. Recipe from Alton Brown Nutritional values are based on one serving