Imagine slicing into a tres leches cake, where the fluffy, tender layers practically melt in your mouth, infused with the irresistible sweetness of three milks. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and beckoning you to indulge in this creamy delight that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Growing up, my family would whip up this tres leches cake recipe with box cake for every birthday and celebration, turning simple gatherings into unforgettable feasts filled with laughter and joy. Whether it’s a cozy get-together or a festive holiday dinner, this beloved dessert promises to elevate any occasion with its luscious texture and delightful flavors that leave everyone craving just one more slice.
Why Is tres leches cake recipe with box cake So Irresistibly Good?
Moistness and rich flavor come together effortlessly in this delightful dessert, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Quick and easy, this recipe uses a box cake mix, saving you precious time without sacrificing taste. Versatile enough to dress up or down, it’s perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home. Soaking the cake in a blend of three milks creates that signature lusciousness every bite deserves! Plus, with just 20 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, you'll wonder why you haven't made this before!
tres leches cake recipe with box cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or white cake mix) – This is the base of our moist cake, making it quick and easy to prepare.
- 3 large eggs – Eggs provide structure and richness to the cake, helping it rise beautifully.
- 1 cup water – Water keeps the batter moist and ensures an even bake.
- ½ cup vegetable oil – Oil adds moisture and tenderness to your cake, making each bite delightful.
For the Milk Mixture
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk – This creamy addition brings sweetness that perfectly complements the cake's flavors.
- 1 can evaporated milk – Evaporated milk adds a rich creaminess that enhances the overall texture of the dessert.
- 1 cup whole milk – Whole milk ensures a smooth consistency for soaking into the cake, making it irresistibly moist.
For the Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream (for whipping) – Whipped cream creates a light and airy topping that balances the sweetness of the cake.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sweetening whipped cream) – Sugar helps enhance the flavor of the whipped cream, making it extra delicious.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to both the whipped cream and overall flavor profile of this tres leches cake recipe with box cake.
How to Make tres leches cake recipe with box cake
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking dish to ensure your cake releases easily after baking.
2. Combine the yellow cake mix, 3 large eggs, 1 cup water, and ½ cup vegetable oil in a mixing bowl. Mix according to package instructions until smooth—this is the foundation of your delicious dessert!
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, it's time to take it out.
4. Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then use a fork to poke holes all over the top. This step is crucial as it allows the milks to soak in beautifully.
For the Milk Mixture:
5. Whisk together 1 can sweetened condensed milk, 1 can evaporated milk, and 1 cup whole milk in a bowl until well combined—this mixture creates that signature moistness.
6. Pour the milk mixture slowly over the cooled cake, ensuring it seeps into all those lovely holes you made earlier. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
For the Topping:
7. Whip together 1 cup heavy cream with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form—this will give your cake a delightful finish.
8. Spread the whipped cream generously over the top of your soaked cake just before serving. This topping adds a creamy contrast to the sweet layers below!
Optional: Garnish with fresh fruit or chocolate shavings for added flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best tres leches cake recipe with box cake
- Cake Mix Choice: Use a yellow or white cake mix for a light, fluffy base. Avoid chocolate mixes, which can overpower the milks.
- Poking Holes: Make sure to poke enough holes in the cake after it cools; this is crucial for the milk mixture to fully soak in, ensuring every bite is moist.
- Chilling Time: Refrigerate the soaked cake overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a richer taste.
- Whipping Cream: Don’t over-whip your cream! Stop when soft peaks form; over-whipped cream can turn grainy and won't spread smoothly on your cake.
- Milk Mixture Ratio: If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can adjust the ratio of sweetened condensed milk slightly without affecting texture. A little extra sweetness never hurts!
- Serving Tip: For an elegant finish, sprinkle some cinnamon or cocoa powder on top of the whipped cream before serving — it adds a lovely touch to this tres leches cake recipe with box cake!
How to Store and Freeze tres leches cake recipe with box cake
- Fridge: Store leftover tres leches cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Freezer: You can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Topping Storage: Whipped cream topping should be made fresh but can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days; re-whip if necessary.
- Serving Tip: For the best taste, enjoy your tres leches cake recipe with box cake chilled straight from the fridge!
tres leches cake recipe with box cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dessert and make it uniquely yours!
- Chocolate Delight: Substitute half of the water with brewed coffee and add ½ cup cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey twist. The combination of coffee and chocolate elevates the flavor profile, making every bite a heavenly experience.
- Coconut Cream: Replace whole milk with coconut milk for a tropical flair. This variation not only adds a subtle coconut sweetness but also enhances the moist texture of the cake, perfect for summer gatherings.
- Lemon Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus kick. The bright notes from the lemon will balance the sweetness beautifully, making it an invigorating dessert option.
- Spiced Variation: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the cake batter for a warm, spiced flavor. This cozy addition brings out comforting aromas that are perfect for fall celebrations.
- Berry Burst: Fold in 1 cup of fresh berries (like strawberries or raspberries) into the batter before baking. The juicy fruits add bursts of flavor and create a lovely contrast against the sweet milks.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into your batter for extra texture. The crunchiness pairs deliciously with the creamy soaked cake, adding layers of flavor and satisfaction.
- Vanilla Bean Bliss: Use vanilla bean paste instead of vanilla extract in your whipped topping for an intense vanilla richness. This simple swap transforms your cake into an indulgent treat that vanilla lovers will adore.
- Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your milk mixture for a surprising kick. This unexpected heat will tantalize taste buds and create an exciting contrast to the cake’s sweetness!
Make Ahead Options
This tres leches cake recipe with box cake is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor its delightful flavors without the last-minute rush. You can easily prepare the cake base up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the yellow cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil before baking it. Once cooled, poke holes in the top and soak it in the milk mixture of sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk—this step can also be done a day ahead. Just cover the cake and refrigerate it overnight for maximum flavor absorption. When it's time to serve, whip up the heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract, which can be made just before serving for that fresh touch. With these make-ahead tips, you'll enjoy a luscious tres leches cake without any stress!
tres leches cake recipe with box cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of cake mix should I use for this recipe?
You can use either a yellow or white cake mix for this tres leches cake recipe. Yellow cake mix will give you a richer flavor, while white cake mix provides a lighter texture. Both options work beautifully!
How long should I refrigerate the soaked cake?
After pouring the milk mixture over the cooled cake, cover it and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, even better, overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the cake is perfectly moist and delicious when served.
Can I freeze leftover tres leches cake?
Yes! You can freeze leftover tres leches cake for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
What can I do if my whipped cream doesn't form soft peaks?
If your whipped cream isn’t forming soft peaks, ensure that your heavy cream is cold before whipping. Try using a chilled bowl and beaters as well. If it still doesn’t thicken, you may need to whip longer or add a bit more sugar—this can help stabilize it.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the milk mixture?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream or almond milk combined with sugar. Use unsweetened almond milk instead of whole milk and avoid the whipped cream topping or use a dairy-free whipped topping as an alternative.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This tres leches cake recipe serves about 8 people. It’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners, providing just enough sweetness without overwhelming your dessert table!
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