If you adore moist, rich desserts that feel like a warm hug in every bite, then this Cake Mix Tres Leches Cake Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Combining the convenience of a boxed cake mix with the luscious, milky soaking sauce characteristic of traditional tres leches, this recipe offers a perfectly spongy, creamy, and utterly irresistible dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make. From that golden cinnamon-infused cake base to the fluffy whipped cream topping crowned with bright cherries, every element sings with flavor and comfort. Trust me, once you whip up this Cake Mix Tres Leches Cake Recipe, you’ll keep coming back for more!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these ingredients right is the heart of delivering the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance for this dessert. Each item is straightforward, yet essential, from the fragrant cinnamon seasoning to the trio of milks that soak the cake to syrupy perfection.
- Yellow cake mix: The base for the cake, giving you that tender crumb and buttery flavor, plus the included ingredients to make the cake as directed on the box.
- ¾ teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a subtle warmth and depth that enhances the cake’s flavor beautifully without overpowering.
- 1 (14-oz) can sweetened condensed milk: This rich, sweet milk thickens the soaking mixture and infuses the cake with irresistible sweetness.
- 1 (12-oz) can evaporated milk: Adds creaminess and body, balancing the condensed milk’s sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup half-and-half: Brings a silky texture and lightness to the milk combo, helping the cake stay moist but not soggy.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream: For whipping into a fluffy, luxurious topping that crowns the cake with light creaminess.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream just right without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the whipped cream with a lovely aromatic note that lifts the whole dessert.
- Cherries: Adds a pop of color and a touch of fruity brightness to finish each slice elegantly.
How to Make Cake Mix Tres Leches Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Start by mixing together the yellow cake mix, cinnamon, and any other ingredients called for on the cake mix box. The cinnamon will give the cake a gentle spiced undertone, complementing the sweet milks you’ll add later. Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9×13-inch pan for even baking, then bake according to the package directions. This step sets the perfect fluffy, golden stage for the moist soaking later.
Step 2: Prepare the Milk Mixture and Soak
While your cake is still warm, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and half-and-half until smooth. Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the surface of the hot cake—this is key for the milk mixture to seep deep inside, ensuring every bite is infused with creamy goodness. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, letting it soak in naturally. Then, let the cake cool completely before covering and chilling it in the fridge overnight. This resting time lets all the flavors meld and the cake absorb that signature tres leches richness perfectly.
Step 3: Whip and Top
Just before serving, whip together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed for about 1 to 2 minutes until soft peaks form. The whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the cake’s rich, soaked layers. Spread it evenly over the top of the chilled cake, then place a cherry on each slice for that delightful burst of color and flavor that’s both classic and inviting.
How to Serve Cake Mix Tres Leches Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While cherries finish off the cake with a sweet, tangy touch and gorgeous color, you can also sprinkle a little ground cinnamon or nutmeg over the whipped cream for extra warmth. Fresh berries or a few mint leaves make pretty, fresh garnishes that complement the cake’s textures and tastes beautifully.
Side Dishes
This tres leches cake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the richness. If you’re serving it at a party, consider light, fruity cocktails or iced coffee to cleanse the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Cake Mix Tres Leches Cake Recipe in individual clear glass cups or mason jars to showcase those lovely layers. You can also cut the cake into small squares and garnish each with a cherry and a tiny dollop of whipped cream for elegant party bites. Layering it into trifles with added fruit creates a visually stunning dessert that’s perfect for impressing guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake stays deliciously moist when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leftovers can last for 2 to 3 days without losing their texture or flavor, making it a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings or family dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze slices of this tres leches cake before adding the whipped cream topping. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and whip fresh cream before serving to keep the topping light and fresh.
Reheating
Because this is a soaked cake, it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can let slices sit out for 15 to 20 minutes before serving, but avoid reheating in the microwave since the whipped cream topping will melt and the cake may lose its signature texture.
FAQs
Can I make this Cake Mix Tres Leches Cake Recipe with a different cake mix?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix works perfectly for that classic flavor and texture, you can experiment with white or even spice cake mixes to add a unique twist. Just keep the soaking and topping steps the same for best results.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake overnight?
Yes, chilling the cake overnight allows the milk mixture to soak deeply into the cake, turning it luxuriously moist and flavorful. Skipping this step might leave the cake less soaked and less tender.
Can I use whipped cream from a can instead of whipping fresh cream?
While canned whipped cream can work in a pinch, freshly whipped cream tastes better and holds its shape longer, creating a light and luscious topping that elevates the dessert immensely.
How many people does this Cake Mix Tres Leches Cake Recipe serve?
This recipe yields 12 generous servings, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or celebrations where you want everyone to enjoy a slice of delight.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute a gluten-free yellow cake mix and follow the same steps. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so the soaking and topping process remains unchanged.
Final Thoughts
This Cake Mix Tres Leches Cake Recipe truly brings together ease and indulgence in one beautiful dessert. It’s perfect for those times you want a show-stopping treat without stressing over complicated baking from scratch. Once you try it, you’ll see just how wonderfully simple it is to create a cake that’s bursting with moistness, creamy richness, and festive charm. So go ahead, give it a whirl, and watch it quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen!
Print
Cake Mix Tres Leches Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes plus overnight refrigeration
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latin American
Description
This Cake Mix Tres Leches Cake is a quick and delicious twist on the classic Latin American dessert. Utilizing a boxed yellow cake mix enhanced with cinnamon, it’s soaked in a luscious blend of three milks—sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and half-and-half—to create a moist, creamy texture. Topped with a fluffy homemade whipped cream and garnished with cherries, this dessert is perfect for celebrations or any occasion needing a delightful, rich cake.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients to make cake as per package instructions)
- ¾ tsp cinnamon
Milk Soak
- 1 (14-oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12-oz) can evaporated milk
- 1 cup half-and-half
Whipped Cream Topping
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Garnish
- Cherries (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Mix together the yellow cake mix, cinnamon, and the additional ingredients required by the cake mix package. Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake according to the package directions, generally for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Make and Apply the Milk Soak: While the cake is still hot, mix together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and half-and-half in a bowl. Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the cake to allow the milk mixture to absorb deeply. Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the warm cake. Let the cake cool completely, then cover and refrigerate it overnight to allow full absorption and flavor melding.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping and Serve: Just before serving, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Whip on high speed for 1-2 minutes until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake. Garnish each slice with a cherry and serve immediately.
Notes
- Using the milk mixture while the cake is still warm helps it soak in better, resulting in a more moist cake.
- Refrigerating overnight is essential for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness of the whipped cream by varying the amount of powdered sugar.
- Cherries can be substituted or omitted based on preference or availability.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, you can also dust some cinnamon powder on top of the whipped cream before serving.
