Strawberry Tres Leches Cake Recipe

If you adore a dessert that is luxuriously moist, bursting with fresh fruit flavor, and somehow both light and indulgent, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Strawberry Tres Leches Cake Recipe. This classic Latin American treat gets a bright, fruity twist with fresh strawberry puree infused into the signature three-milk soak, transforming an already heavenly cake into a stunning showstopper perfect for any celebration or cozy weekend treat. With its delicate sponge cake soaked thoroughly in a luscious strawberry cream mixture and topped with silky whipped cream and juicy strawberry slices, it’s impossible not to smile after the first bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on your Strawberry Tres Leches Cake Recipe is refreshingly straightforward because each ingredient plays an essential role in crafting the perfect balance of softness, richness, and fresh fruit vibrancy. These simple pantry staples and lively strawberries join forces to create a dessert that is both comforting and elegant.

• All-purpose flour: Forms the tender structure of the cake without weighing it down.
• Baking powder: Ensures a light, airy crumb by gently lifting the batter as it bakes.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors, balancing the cake perfectly.
• Large eggs (separated): Separate yolks for richness and beaten whites for that fluffy, spongy texture.
• Granulated sugar (divided): Sweetens both the cake batter and whipped cream topping just right.
• Whole milk: Adds moisture and a hint of dairy creaminess to the sponge.
• Vanilla extract: Brings a warm, comforting aroma and flavor to every layer.
• Evaporated milk: Part of the essential three-milk soak that makes the cake so moist.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Adds luscious sweetness and richness to the soak.
• Heavy cream: Used both in the soak and the fluffy whipped topping for irresistible creaminess.
• Strawberry puree: The superstar twist that infuses the soak with vivid color and fresh berry flavor.
• Heavy whipping cream: For creating that light, pillowy whipped cream topping.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream for a smooth finish.
• Fresh strawberries (sliced): Adds bright, juicy bursts and beautiful color as the final flourish.

How to Make Strawberry Tres Leches Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

To set yourself up for success, preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to ensure the cake slides out smoothly and bakes evenly. This foundational step is key for that flawless, tender crumb we all dream about.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

Combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a bowl and whisk them together. This keeps everything well-distributed so your cake rises evenly, with a uniformly light texture that’s incredibly satisfying.

Step 3: Beat the Yolks with Sugar, Milk, and Vanilla

In a separate bowl, vigorously beat the egg yolks with three-quarters of the granulated sugar until they turn paler and creamier. Then add the whole milk and vanilla extract. This mixture adds richness and tenderness to your batter, building layers of flavor.

Step 4: Fold Dry Ingredients into Wet

Gently fold the flour mixture into the yolk mixture until just combined — folding rather than stirring keeps your cake light and airy, the perfect foundation for soaking up those dreamy milks.

Step 5: Whip Egg Whites with Remaining Sugar

Using clean beaters, whisk the egg whites to soft peaks, gradually adding the remaining sugar. This step is essential because these fluffy egg whites will be folded into the batter, giving your cake that classic light and spongy texture.

Step 6: Incorporate Egg Whites into Batter

Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into your batter. Patience here is everything — fold until just combined so you keep as much volume as possible, ensuring your cake stays tender and airy after baking.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely — this is crucial because the soaking step works best on a cool cake.

Step 8: Make the Strawberry Milk Mixture

Blend the fresh strawberry puree until silky smooth, then mix it with the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. Taste this luscious mix and adjust the strawberry intensity or sweetness to your liking. This mixture is what infuses the cake with that wonderful fruity moisture.

Step 9: Soak the Cake

Gently poke holes all over the cooled cake using a fork or skewer – this helps the strawberry milk soak deeply into every corner. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to absorb the liquid. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight for maximum deliciousness.

Step 10: Whip the Cream Topping and Assemble

Whip together the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread this fluffy, creamy layer generously over the soaked cake, then crown your masterpiece with fresh, sliced strawberries. This final step adds elegant sweetness, fresh texture, and irresistible visual appeal.

How to Serve Strawberry Tres Leches Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For garnishes, think fresh and festive. Complement the cake’s natural strawberry flavors with whole or halved fresh strawberries artfully arranged on top. You can also add delicate whipped cream swirls piped around the edges to make every slice look like a slice of heaven.

Side Dishes

Pair your Strawberry Tres Leches Cake Recipe with refreshing sides like a lightly tossed fruit salad featuring seasonal berries and a chilled sparkling wine or champagne. The bubbly drink cuts through the sweetness perfectly and adds a touch of celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests or make your family smile? Present the cake on an elegant white ceramic or glass cake stand, letting the vivid red strawberries pop against the bright white whipped topping. You can serve slices in clear dessert dishes to showcase the gorgeous layers for a fun table talk starter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Strawberry Tres Leches Cake Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge, covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. The flavors will continue to meld nicely, and it will stay moist and fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, it’s best to do so before adding the whipped cream topping. Wrap the cake securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then whip fresh cream topping just before serving for best results.

Reheating

Since this cake is served chilled, reheating isn’t necessary. Simply allow a refrigerated slice to sit out for 10–15 minutes for softened cream and bloom of flavor before digging in.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the puree?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them a bit to avoid excess water diluting the strawberry milk mixture. Frozen berries are a great year-round option.

Is it necessary to separate the eggs?

Separating the eggs is key for creating that airy, spongy texture typical of tres leches cakes. Beating the whites separately adds volume without making the cake dense.

How long should I chill the cake after pouring the milk mixture?

At least 4 hours is recommended, but overnight is even better. The longer soak ensures the cake absorbs all that strawberry-infused cream, making each bite unbelievably moist.

Can I substitute the strawberry puree with another fruit?

Yes! Mango, peach, or raspberry purees also taste amazing with a tres leches cake, giving it a unique twist while maintaining that classic creamy texture.

What’s the best way to serve the cake to keep it from becoming soggy?

Serve chilled directly from the fridge on a sturdy plate or cake stand. Slice gently with a sharp serrated knife to keep the layers intact and prevent squishing the moist cake.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way this Strawberry Tres Leches Cake Recipe combines moist, tender cake with the fresh brightness of berries and rich creaminess of the soaked milk mixture. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself and loved ones, this cake promises smiles, sweet moments, and plenty of compliments. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite dessert!

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