Imagine diving into a cloud of sweet decadence where creamy milk soaks into fluffy sponge. This is the magic of a tres leches cake recipe with box cake that will have your taste buds dancing. The moment you take a bite, you’ll be treated to a luscious blend of milks that creates sheer bliss in every forkful.
This delightful dessert isn’t just for special occasions; it’s perfect for impromptu gatherings or simply when you need a sweet pick-me-up. I still remember the first time I tried this dreamy dessert at my friend’s birthday party—it was love at first bite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy tres leches cake recipe using box cake mix simplifies preparation without sacrificing flavor.
- The milky soak creates an irresistible moistness that melts in your mouth.
- Visually stunning with whipped cream and fruit toppings, it’s sure to impress any crowd.
- Perfect for birthdays or festive gatherings, everyone will be coming back for seconds!
I recall my first attempt at making this dessert—friends were raving about my culinary skills (while I secretly felt like a kitchen superhero).
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boxed Yellow Cake Mix: Opt for your favorite brand; it saves time and effort while ensuring a light texture.
- Whole Milk: Full-fat milk enhances the creaminess and ensures the perfect soak.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds sweetness and richness—don’t skip it!
- Evaporated Milk: Use this for a slightly caramelized flavor profile.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: For fluffy whipped topping; it adds elegance and makes it irresistible.
- Granulated Sugar: A little sugar sweetens the whipping cream; adjust according to your taste.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a splash elevates the entire flavor profile; choose pure vanilla for best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Cake Base: Preheat the oven according to package instructions for the boxed yellow cake. Grease and flour your baking dish for easy removal later.
Bake the Cake: Mix together the ingredients from the box as per package directions until well combined. Pour into prepared dish and bake until golden brown—about 25-30 minutes.
Create Your Milky Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk until smooth and creamy.
Poke Holes in Your Cake: Allow your baked cake to cool slightly before using a fork to poke holes all over its surface. This helps absorb that milky goodness!
Add the Milky Soak: Slowly pour the milk mixture over the warm cake so it seeps into those delicious holes—trust me, this part is essential!
Whip Up Some Topping: In another bowl, beat heavy whipping cream with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread generously over soaked cake once chilled.
Enjoy serving this creamy delight at any gathering! Trust me; it’s bound to become your new go-to dessert recipe that leaves everyone asking for more!
You Must Know
- Use whole milk for a richer flavor in your tres leches cake,A memorable moment was when my friend said it tasted like heaven!
- Let the cake soak overnight for optimal moisture,I once rushed this step, and it was a dry disaster!
- Top with fresh fruit or whipped cream for added texture,My family devours it faster than I can make it!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by baking the box cake according to package instructions. Once cooled, poke holes evenly all over the cake. Prepare the tres leches mixture and pour it over the cake, allowing it to soak thoroughly.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding flavored extracts like vanilla or almond to your milk mixture for a twist. You can also fold in some coconut milk for extra richness or top with toasted coconut flakes to elevate the experience.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover tres leches cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its moisture. It’s best enjoyed cold but can also be served at room temperature, making it a versatile treat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always poke plenty of holes in the cake so it absorbs all that delicious milk mixture.
- Remember that patience is key; letting it soak overnight takes your dessert to another level of yum!
- Don’t skip topping with whipped cream; it’s essential for that dreamy finish.
I remember making this cake for my niece’s birthday party, and her smile was priceless when she took her first bite. The requests for seconds were non-stop!
FAQ
Can I use a homemade cake instead of box mix?
Yes, you can! Just ensure it’s a light and fluffy sponge cake.
How long should I let the cake soak?
Letting it soak overnight yields the best results for flavor and moisture.
What fruits pair well with tres leches cake?
Fresh strawberries or mango slices complement its sweetness beautifully.
Easy Tres Leches Cake Recipe Using Box Cake
Savor the creamy delight of this easy tres leches cake made with a box cake mix, perfect for any occasion and sure to impress your guests.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven according to the box instructions for the yellow cake. Grease and flour your baking dish.
- Prepare the cake mix as directed on the package. Pour batter into the prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- In a large bowl, whisk together whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk until well combined.
- Once the cake has cooled slightly, poke holes all over its surface using a fork.
- Gradually pour the milky mixture over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in.
- In another bowl, beat heavy whipping cream with sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread over the soaked cake once chilled.
Notes
- For richer flavor, let the cake soak overnight in the fridge.
- Top with fresh strawberries or mango slices for added sweetness and texture.
- Consider adding almond extract to your milky mixture for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Latino
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
