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Tres Leches Cake Recipe (Milk Cake)

This Tres Leches Cake is a soft, airy sponge cake drenched in a luxurious trio of milks and topped with a cloud of whipped cream. Each bite is rich, moist, and perfectly sweet without being heavy. It's a show-stopping dessert that's surprisingly easy to make and ideal for birthdays, gatherings, or simply indulging at home.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling & Soaking Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the Milk Soak:

  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk

For the Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just combined.
  • Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  • Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cake cool completely, then pierce the surface all over with a fork.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk.
  • Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
  • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the cake absorb the milk.
  • In a chilled mixing bowl, whip heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
  • Spread whipped cream evenly over the cake.
  • Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Notes

  • For a more flavorful sponge, separate the eggs and whip the whites before folding them into the batter.
  • Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping cream for best results.
  • Garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of cinnamon for a simple yet elegant finish.