Name: Tres Leches Cake (Three Milk Cake) Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 ¼ cups (280g) cake flour; 2 ¼ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs, room temperature; 1 ¼ cups (250g) caster/granulated sugar; 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract; ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, melted; ¾ cup (180g) Greek-style yogurt; 1 cup (240ml) whole milk; 1 can (14oz/397g) sweetened condensed milk; 1 can (12oz/354ml) evaporated milk; 2 cups (480ml) double/heavy cream; ½ cup (62g) icing/powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 1 review

If you have a soft spot for desserts that are both rich and refreshingly light, then you are going to absolutely adore this Tres Leches Cake (Three Milk Cake) Recipe. This classic Mexican delight takes a fluffy sponge cake and drenches it lovingly in a silky combination of three kinds of milk, transforming it into a moist, melt-in-your-mouth sensation topped with luscious homemade whipped cream. Every forkful is a celebration of creamy, sweet, and airy textures all at once, making it a go-to treat for family gatherings or a comforting solo indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl in the center holds a thick, pale yellow batter that is smooth with some small lumps and swirls on top. To the top left is an empty clear glass bowl with a metal whisk inside; to the top right is another empty clear glass bowl. A spatula with a light blue handle and a yellow silicone head rests on the white marbled surface to the left of the bowl. A light grey patterned cloth lies on the bottom right corner. The scene is set on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Tres Leches Cake (Three Milk Cake) Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and color. Fresh eggs and yogurt contribute lightness and moisture, while the trio of milks infuses the cake with its signature richness.

2 ¼ cups (280g) cake flour: Provides the perfect structure and tenderness for a delicate sponge.
2 ¼ teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the cake rises just right to be airy and soft.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
3 large eggs, room temperature: Adds richness and helps keep the cake fluffy.
1 ¼ cups (250g) caster/granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter evenly without graininess.
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings a fragrant warmth that complements the milkiness.
¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, melted: Adds buttery richness and luxurious texture.
¾ cup (180g) Greek-style yogurt: Provides moistness and slight tang for balance.
1 cup (240ml) whole milk: The first of the “three milks” that soak into the cake.
1 can (14oz/397g) sweetened condensed milk: Sweet and thick, enriching the cake deeply.
1 can (12oz/354ml) evaporated milk: Lends a subtle creaminess that rounds out the milk mixture.
2 cups (480ml) double/heavy cream: For the airy, lightly sweetened whipped cream topping.
½ cup (62g) icing/powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream topping smoothly without grittiness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a delicate, comforting aroma to the whipped cream.

How to Make Tres Leches Cake (Three Milk Cake) Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 180C (350F). Grease a 13×9-inch pan so your cake comes out clean and beautiful. Whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt to make sure every bite has even lift and balance. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well combined, then add the sugar gradually and keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Stir in the vanilla extract, melted butter, and Greek yogurt until fully mixed in. Gently fold the dry ingredients into this wet mix, being careful not to overwork the batter to maintain that light sponginess.

Step 2: Baking the Cake

Pour your batter evenly into the greased pan. Place it in the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely right in the pan on a wire rack—cooling is key for soaking up the three milks beautifully without becoming mushy.

Step 3: Preparing the Milk Mixture and Soaking the Cake

Whisk together whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk in a large jug. This luscious milk trio creates the magic behind the name “Tres Leches.” Using a fork, poke holes all over the cooled cake’s surface—this step lets the milks seep deeply into every crevice. Pour the milk mixture slowly over the cake, allowing it to absorb fully. For best results, cover the cake and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight. This resting time lets the flavors marry perfectly and the cake become irresistibly moist.

Step 4: Making the Whipped Cream Topping

Whip the double cream using a hand or stand mixer until it starts to thicken. Add the icing sugar and vanilla extract, then continue whipping until the cream holds medium to stiff peaks. This homemade whipped cream topping is a cloud-like complement that adds sweetness without overpowering the milky cake beneath. Spread it over the soaked cake evenly, and your Tres Leches Cake (Three Milk Cake) Recipe is ready for serving!

How to Serve Tres Leches Cake (Three Milk Cake) Recipe

The image shows two square pieces of light yellow cake with a soft texture. Each piece has a thick layer of smooth white frosting on top. On top of each piece, there is a bright red strawberry cut in half, placed in the center. The pieces are served on white speckled plates. A silver fork is placed on the plate in the background, next to one piece of cake. The setting has a white marbled texture as the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A tres leches cake is a canvas for creativity when it comes to garnishes. Fresh fruit like ripe strawberries, juicy mango slices, or tart raspberries add vibrant color and a refreshing contrast. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a few toasted coconut flakes can add a lovely hint of warmth and texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sweetness.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple accompaniments like a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a light, fruity wine. A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the cake adds an extra layer of decadence, perfect for those who like their desserts a little more luxurious.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of a standard square slice, try serving your Tres Leches Cake in individual glass jars to showcase those beautiful milk-soaked layers. Alternatively, layering the cake in a trifle bowl with whipped cream and fruit creates an impressive centerpiece that’s both casual and elegant—perfect for parties and family celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Make sure to cover your leftover tres leches cake tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and keep it refrigerated. Thanks to the milks soaking through the sponge, the cake stays moist and even more flavorful after a day. Enjoy within 3 to 4 days for the best texture and taste.

Freezing

While freezing can slightly alter the texture of the whipped cream topping, you can freeze the milk-soaked cake itself. Wrap it well in plastic and foil to prevent freezer burn, and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Re-whipping fresh cream for topping after thawing works best to restore that light, fluffy finish.

Reheating

Because Tres Leches Cake (Three Milk Cake) Recipe is served chilled, reheating is not necessary and not recommended. Enjoy it straight from the fridge for the creamiest experience. If you prefer a less cold treat, just allow the slice to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

What makes tres leches cake different from other cakes?

Tres leches cake is unique because it is soaked in three types of milk—whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk—giving it exceptional moisture and a rich, creamy flavor that sets it apart from typical sponge cakes.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute regular yogurt if needed, but Greek yogurt’s thickness helps achieve the perfect moist yet sturdy texture in the cake. If using regular yogurt, consider slightly reducing other liquids in the batter.

Is this cake gluten-free?

This recipe calls for cake flour, which contains gluten. However, with the right gluten-free flour substitute that mimics cake flour’s texture, you can adapt this recipe for gluten-free needs.

How long should I soak the cake in the milk mixture?

For the best results, soaking the cake for at least one hour is recommended, but overnight soaking in the refrigerator yields the most moist and flavorful cake.

Can I make the cake topping ahead of time?

Yes! You can whip the cream topping a few hours before serving and keep it refrigerated, but for the best fluffiness, give it a quick re-whip just before spreading onto the cake.

Final Thoughts

This Tres Leches Cake (Three Milk Cake) Recipe is truly a celebration of textures and flavors, combining a light, tender cake with the rich, creamy essence of three milks and a soft whipped cream crown. It’s one of those special desserts that brings people together and leaves lasting smiles. Honestly, once you make it, this cake may become your new favorite sweet treat to share and savor. Give it a go—you absolutely won’t regret it!