Have You Ever Tried a Cake That’s Soaked in Milk?
Have you ever eaten a cake so soft, juicy, and creamy that it feels like a spoonful of happiness? That’s exactly what you get when you try a strawberry tres leches cake! This delicious dessert is soaked in three kinds of milk, layered with fresh strawberries, and topped with fluffy whipped cream. It might sound fancy, but guess what? It’s super easy to make, and you don’t need to be a professional baker. If you’re a fan of strawberries, creamy textures, and sweet treats, you’re going to love this recipe.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about strawberry tres leches cake—what makes it special, the ingredients you need, how to make it step-by-step, how to store it, and even some fun variations. Whether it’s your first time baking or you’re a cake expert, this cake is sure to become one of your favorites.
Table of Contents
Why This Strawberry Tres Leches Cake Is So Special
What Makes It Stand Out?
The strawberry tres leches cake is a Latin American classic with a fruity twist. The term “tres leches” means “three milks” in Spanish. The cake is baked and then soaked with a mixture of evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk. This turns a regular sponge cake into a soft, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth dessert.
Now, add strawberries to the mix, and you’ve got something magical. The sweetness of the berries pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cake, making every bite a taste of heaven.
Time and Skill Level
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Bake time: 30 minutes
- Chill time: 3–4 hours (or overnight for best results)
- Skill level: Easy to moderate
You don’t need fancy equipment or tricky techniques. Just a mixing bowl, a whisk, a baking pan, and a fridge!
Perfect for All Occasions
Whether it’s a birthday party, a summer picnic, or just a special treat for your family, strawberry tres leches cake fits the bill. Its light and refreshing taste makes it ideal for warm-weather celebrations, but it’s so tasty, you’ll want to make it year-round. Plus, it looks beautiful with its fluffy topping and fresh strawberries—perfect for impressing your guests!
Essential Ingredients for Strawberry Tres Leches Cake
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients and why they’re important.
For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – gives the cake its structure
- 1 cup granulated sugar – adds sweetness
- 5 large eggs – helps the cake rise and stay fluffy
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – makes the cake light
- 1/4 cup whole milk – adds moisture to the batter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for extra flavor
For the Tres Leches Mixture:
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk – light and creamy
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – thick and sweet
- 1/2 cup whole milk – balances the mixture
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream – whipped into a cloud
- 2 tablespoons sugar – to sweeten the whipped cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for flavor
- 2 cups fresh strawberries – sliced and ready to shine
Ingredient Alternatives
- Milk: You can use coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Flour: Use gluten-free flour if needed.
- Sugar: Try coconut sugar or a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.
- Fruit: No strawberries? Use raspberries, blueberries, or mangoes.
- Cream: Swap with coconut cream for a tropical twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Make Your Strawberry Tres Leches Cake
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until the mixture becomes thick and light.
- Add vanilla and milk. Stir gently.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder.
- Pour the batter into the baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes. Test with a toothpick—it should come out clean.
Tip: Do not overmix the batter. A light mix helps keep the cake fluffy!
Step 2: Make the Milk Soak
- In a bowl, mix together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk.
- Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Soak the Cake
- Let the cake cool for 10–15 minutes.
- Use a fork to poke holes all over the top.
- Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Pro Tip: The more holes you poke, the better the milk gets absorbed!
Putting It All Together: Building the Perfect Strawberry Tres Leches Cake
Whip the Cream
- Beat the heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the chilled cake.
Add the Strawberries
- Slice your strawberries.
- Decorate the top of the cake however you like.
- For extra flair, add a few whole berries or mint leaves.
Presentation Tips
- Arrange strawberries in a flower pattern.
- Add edible gold flakes or sprinkles for extra shine.
- Use a clear glass dish to show off the cake’s layers.
Storing and Keeping Your Cake Fresh
Storage
- Fridge: Keep it covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the cake (without toppings) wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- No need to reheat. This cake is served cold!
Bonus Tip: Store leftover whipped cream separately if you want to add fresh toppings before serving again.
Fun and Creative Variations
- Chocolate Strawberry Tres Leches: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the batter.
- Berry Medley: Use a mix of berries on top.
- Mini Tres Leches Cupcakes: Use cupcake pans for individual servings.
- Tropical Style: Replace regular milk with coconut milk and top with pineapple and mango.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle crushed almonds or pistachios on top.
- Strawberry Jam Swirl: Add strawberry jam to the milk mixture or swirl into the batter before baking.
- Layered Tres Leches Cake: Bake in two pans and stack with fruit and cream in the middle.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Tips
While it’s a sweet treat, there are some health perks:
- Strawberries: Full of vitamin C and antioxidants
- Milk: Great source of calcium and protein
- Eggs: High in vitamins and nutrients
Making It Healthier
- Use low-fat milk
- Choose less sugar or natural sweeteners
- Add more fresh fruit for fiber
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “tres leches” mean?
It means “three milks” in Spanish. The cake is soaked in evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Just thaw them first and pat dry so they don’t make the cake soggy.
Can I make it the night before?
Absolutely. It actually tastes better the next day!
Can I skip the whipped cream?
Sure! Try using a light yogurt topping or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days when covered.
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Yes, you can use an egg substitute or a vegan sponge cake recipe.
What’s the best milk to use?
Whole milk gives the richest flavor, but you can also try almond, oat, or coconut milk for different tastes.
Can I add a fruit filling?
Yes! Try layering sliced strawberries, mango, or bananas between the cake and whipped topping.
Is strawberry tres leches cake gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can make it gluten-free using a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
Can I serve it warm?
It’s best served cold so the milk stays fresh and the cake stays soft.
Final Thoughts: Try This Sweet, Creamy Dessert Today
Strawberry tres leches cake is one of those desserts that you just have to try. It’s creamy, juicy, and full of fresh strawberry flavor. It looks beautiful, tastes amazing, and is fun to make. Whether you’re baking for a party, a holiday, or just because you want something special, this cake is sure to be a hit.
So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking. Don’t forget to take a picture of your beautiful cake before it disappears—because it will disappear fast.
If you’re looking for the perfect tableware or decor to complement your strawberry tres leches cake, be sure to check out my collection at Artisan at Marrakech on Chairish. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet afternoon, our curated selection of handcrafted, unique pieces will add a touch of elegance to any occasion. From beautiful serving platters to stylish bowls, you’ll find the ideal pieces to elevate your dessert presentation.
Happy baking and even happier eating.
strawberry tres leches cake
Ingredients
- Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk whole or 2%
- For the Tres Leches Soak:
- 1 can 12 oz evaporated milk
- 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries sliced
- Optional Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves for decoration
Notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Add vanilla extract and milk, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder, then gently fold it into the egg mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then use a fork to poke holes all over the surface.
Step 2: Prepare the Milk Soak
- In a bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk until smooth.
- Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cooled cake, making sure it absorbs into the holes. Let it soak in completely.
- Chill the cake in the fridge for 3-4 hours (or overnight for the best texture).
Step 3: Make the Topping
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake.
- Garnish with sliced strawberries on top of the whipped cream.
Step 4: Serve
- Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavor with a fresh berry twist.