Go Back
3 Milks Cake Tres Leches Recipe

3 Milks Cake A.K.A Tres Leches Recipe

Discover the history, ingredients, and preparation of the traditional 3 Milks Cake, also known as Tres Leches. Tips for perfect texture, toppings, decorations, and health included.
Prep Time 45 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Resting Time 4 hrs
Total Time 5 hrs 20 mins
Course Dessert
Servings 12 people
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Cake:
  • 1 cup granulated sugar divided
  • 5 large eggs separated
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Milk Mixture:
  • 1 can 12 ounces evaporated milk
  • 1 can 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • Whipped Topping:
  • 1 pint heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • Ground cinnamon for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
  • Separate the eggs into two different mixing bowls. Add 3/4 cup of sugar to the egg yolks and beat on high speed until the mixture is a pale yellow color. Mix in the whole milk and vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the egg yolk mixture to the flour mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix the batter.
  • Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites on high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
  • Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the batter, ensuring it is mixed well by scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl.
  • Pour the batter into an ungreased baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
  • In a small bowl, combine the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk.
  • Once the cake has cooled, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, making sure it is evenly distributed and soaks in well. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow it to absorb the milk.
  • While the cake is chilling, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread this whipped topping over the cake.
  • Dust the top with ground cinnamon. Optionally, you can serve it with fresh sliced strawberries for added flavor. Enjoy!

Notes

Keep the Tres Leches Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Make Ahead: This cake can be made 1-2 days in advance. Preparing it the night before is ideal to give the cake ample time to soak up the milk mixture.
Freezing: The baked and cooled cake (before adding the milk mixture) can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding the three-milk mixture.
Keyword 3 milks cake, tres leche