Tres Leches Cake with Whipped Cream and Strawberries

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings joy to any gathering, you’ve come to the right place! This Tres Leches Cake with Whipped Cream and Strawberries is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s wonderfully moist, thanks to the three types of milk that soak into the sponge cake, creating a rich and indulgent treat. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and fresh strawberries, this dessert is perfect for everything from family celebrations to cozy weeknight dinners.

What makes this recipe extra special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a show-stopping cake that your loved ones will rave about. Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead option, allowing you to enjoy stress-free entertaining!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip up this delicious cake. The steps are simple and easy to follow.
• Family-friendly: Everyone—from kids to grandparents—will love the sweet flavors and creamy texture of this classic dessert.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just treating yourself on a Wednesday, this cake fits the bill!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and let it chill overnight for the best flavor. Just top with whipped cream before serving!
• Deliciously versatile: The flavor combinations are endless, making it fun to switch things up!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this wonderful Tres Leches Cake with Whipped Cream and Strawberries, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1.5 teaspoon baking powder
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 5 large eggs (separated)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (divided (3/4 cup for yolks, 1/4 cup for whites))
• 0.33 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cake)
• 12 oz evaporated milk (1 can)
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (1 can)
• 0.5 cup whole milk or heavy cream (for tres leches mixture)
• 1.5 cup cold heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoon powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
• 1.5 cup fresh strawberries (sliced)

Variations

This Tres Leches Cake recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Try different fruits: Top your cake with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a colorful presentation.
• Infuse flavors: For an extra kick, add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version everyone can enjoy.

How to Make Tres Leches Cake with Whipped Cream and Strawberries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly right from the start.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder, and 0.25 teaspoon of salt. This combination creates structure in your cake while keeping it light!

Step 3: Mix Egg Yolks and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until they turn pale and creamy—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The fluffy texture here is key; it helps create an airy cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add in 0.33 cup of whole milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into your yolk mixture. Gradually mix in your dry ingredients until just combined—be careful not to overmix!

Step 5: Beat Egg Whites

In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Then add in the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for achieving that light-as-air texture in your cake.

Step 6: Fold in Egg Whites

Gently fold the beaten egg whites into your batter in three additions. This process keeps all the airiness from the egg whites intact and makes your cake tender.

Step 7: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center.

Step 8: Cool Down

Let your beautiful cake cool completely in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Cooling allows it to settle before soaking up all those milks—incredible!

Step 9: Poke Holes in Cake

Using a fork, poke holes all over the surface of your cooled cake. These holes will allow that delicious milk mixture to soak right in.

Step 10: Prepare Your Milk Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together one can each of evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk with an additional half-cup of whole milk or heavy cream. This rich mixture is what makes this cake so special!

Step 11: Soak Your Cake

Slowly pour this luscious milk mixture over your cake, allowing it to absorb gradually—pouring in thirds works best here.

Step 12: Chill Out

Cover your cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours; overnight is even better! This chilling time allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 13: Make Whipped Cream

Before serving, beat cold heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form—it should be fluffy perfection!

Step 14: Top It Off

Spread that heavenly whipped cream evenly over your chilled cake and adorn it with fresh sliced strawberries on top.

Step 15: Serve & Enjoy!

Keep refrigerated until you’re ready to serve—you want this beauty cold! Slice it up and watch everyone enjoy every last bite of this delightful Tres Leches Cake with Whipped Cream and Strawberries!

Pro Tips for Making Tres Leches Cake with Whipped Cream and Strawberries

Making the perfect Tres Leches Cake can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and milk to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better volume, resulting in a fluffier cake.

• Don’t skip the cooling step: Allowing the cake to cool completely before adding the milk mixture is crucial; it ensures the cake absorbs the liquid evenly without becoming overly soggy.

• Pour slowly: When soaking the cake with the tres leches mixture, pour it slowly and in thirds. This allows the cake to absorb all that creamy goodness more effectively.

• Chill thoroughly: Refrigerating the soaked cake for at least two hours (or overnight if possible) enhances the flavor and texture. A well-chilled cake is a refreshing treat!

• Fresh is best: Use ripe strawberries for topping. They add a burst of flavor and color that brightens up your dessert beautifully!

How to Serve Tres Leches Cake with Whipped Cream and Strawberries

Presenting your Tres Leches Cake can elevate your dessert experience, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas to serve this delightful treat:

Garnishes

• Mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves on top of the whipped cream add a pop of color and a refreshing aroma.
• Chocolate shavings: Lightly sprinkle chocolate shavings over the whipped cream for an indulgent twist that pairs well with strawberries.
• Lime zest: A touch of lime zest adds brightness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits complements the richness of the cake while adding a refreshing contrast.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances perfectly with the moistness of the tres leches, making each bite heavenly.
• Coconut flan: This smooth, creamy dessert offers a lovely tropical flair that harmonizes beautifully with your tres leches cake.
• Coffee or espresso: Serving coffee alongside enhances the flavors of sweet desserts like tres leches, creating a delightful balance on your palate.

Now you’re all set to create an unforgettable Tres Leches Cake with Whipped Cream and Strawberries! Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, this dessert is sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tres Leches Cake is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen and making your life easier when it’s time to serve.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• For best texture, consume within 3-5 days.
• If you notice the whipped cream starting to deflate, consider adding a bit more whipping cream before serving.

Freezing

• It’s best to freeze the cake without the whipped cream topping.
• Wrap the cooled cake securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

• This cake is best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer it slightly warmed:
• Remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dessert!

Can I use a different type of milk in Tres Leches Cake with Whipped Cream and Strawberries?

Yes! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk. Just ensure they are unsweetened for best results!

How long does Tres Leches Cake with Whipped Cream and Strawberries last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this cake lasts about 3-5 days. If frozen, it can last up to 2 months.

Can I add other fruits to my Tres Leches Cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your cake with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for added flavor!

What should I do if my whipped cream doesn’t hold its shape?

If your whipped cream is too soft, try chilling your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand. Also, make sure you’re using cold heavy cream!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Tres Leches Cake with Whipped Cream and Strawberries as I do! This dessert is perfect for any celebration or just a sweet treat at home. Enjoy every moist bite topped with fresh strawberries that bring a burst of flavor. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out!