Tres Leches Cake is a rich, creamy dessert made by soaking a sponge cake in three types of milk. This Best Tres Leches Cake Recipe creates a perfectly moist, sweet cake that’s topped with whipped cream and ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday or a family gathering, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to delight everyone.

Why Is It Called Tres Leches Cake?
Tres Leches Cake gets its name from the three kinds of milk used to soak the cake—evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk. This combination gives the cake its signature moist and creamy texture. The sponge cake acts as a perfect base for absorbing the milk, transforming a simple cake into a luscious dessert that melts in your mouth.
How Should Tres Leches Cake Taste?
A well-made Tres Leches Cake should be incredibly moist without being soggy. The cake absorbs the milk mixture, making it soft and rich, but still light enough to enjoy without feeling heavy. The whipped cream on top adds a layer of smooth, sweet freshness that complements the cake’s richness. Each bite should have a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of vanilla.
Secrets to Making the Best Tres Leches Cake
To ensure your Best Tres Leches Cake Recipe comes out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips:
- Beat the Egg Whites: Whipping the egg whites separately and then folding them into the batter ensures that the cake has a light, airy texture that can absorb the milk mixture without becoming too dense.
- Poke Plenty of Holes: Once the cake is baked, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface. This allows the milk mixture to seep into every part of the cake, ensuring it’s evenly soaked.
- Chill Before Serving: Tres Leches Cake is best served cold, so be sure to refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours (or overnight) after soaking it in the milk mixture. This gives the cake time to fully absorb the milk and firm up.
Ways to Serve and Garnish Tres Leches Cake
This Best Tres Leches Cake Recipe is delicious on its own, but you can add extra flavor and presentation by garnishing it with:
- Fresh Berries: Top the cake with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a burst of freshness.
- Cinnamon: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top of the whipped cream adds warmth and complements the sweetness of the cake.
- Chocolate Shavings: For a richer twist, sprinkle some chocolate shavings over the whipped cream topping.

Tres Leches Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Fork for poking holes in the cake
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar divided
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Milk Mixture:
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg yolks with ¾ cup of sugar until pale and fluffy. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites on high speed. Gradually add the remaining ¼ cup sugar, beating until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture, then fold in the flour mixture until fully combined.2. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.3. Soak the Cake: Once the cake is cool, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface. In a large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to let the cake absorb the milk.4. Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the soaked cake.5. Serve: Garnish the Tres Leches Cake with fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of rum or vanilla extract to the milk mixture.
- The cake is best served chilled, so allow enough time for the cake to fully absorb the milk and cool before serving.
- You can make the cake a day in advance and store it in the fridge, which actually enhances the flavor.
Conclusion
Tres Leches Cake is a dessert that’s all about indulgence. With its soft, airy sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk and topped with whipped cream, this Best Tres Leches Cake Recipe offers a rich, creamy bite that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, a holiday celebration, or just because, this cake is sure to impress. Serve it chilled, and enjoy every spoonful of this Latin American classic!