Tres La Leche Cake

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: Latin American

A sweet and creamy tres leches cake featuring moist yellow cake soaked in a rich milk mixture, topped with whipped cream, perfect for celebrations and dessert lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 1 Yellow Cake Mix
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk

Instructions

  1. Bake the yellow cake mix according to the box instructions in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
  2. Allow the cake to cool completely after baking.
  3. Poke holes all over the cooled cake with a toothpick or fork.
  4. Mix the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and any additional milk if desired.
  5. Pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring it soaks in thoroughly.
  6. Let the cake absorb the milk mixture and chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
  7. Top with Cool Whip or whipped cream before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the milk mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream. To save time, you can use a store-bought yellow cake for convenience. If you're looking for a twist, try using coconut milk for a tropical flair.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tres Leche Cake chilled, garnished with fresh fruit like strawberries or mango for a refreshing touch. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect ending to a meal. For a festive twist, consider serving it alongside a slice of Sugar Free Fruit Cake for a delightful dessert spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Tres Leche Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its moistness, avoid covering it tightly with plastic wrap. It can be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge, or you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tres La Leche Cake contains roughly 147 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.

147 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.9g 6% DV
Total Fat 4.6g 6% DV
Carbs 23.7g 9% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 14.6g 29% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 142mg 6% DV
Potassium 107.5mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 4.6mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 43.8mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 3.3mg 4% DV
Vitamin D 0.4mcg 2% DV
Calcium 118.3mg 9% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Tres Leche Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows the cake to soak up the milk mixture better, enhancing the flavor. Just ensure you store it properly in the refrigerator and cover it lightly to prevent it from drying out.

What can I do if my cake is too dry?

If you find your cake is too dry, you can drizzle a bit more milk mixture over the top before serving to moisten it. Additionally, ensure that you poke enough holes in the cake to allow the milk to soak in thoroughly during the chilling process.

Is it possible to make a gluten-free version of this cake?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free yellow cake mix to make a gluten-free Tres Leche Cake. Just follow the same instructions, and you'll have a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy. Be sure to check all labels to ensure all ingredients meet gluten-free standards.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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