Craving a tropical twist on the classic Tres Leches cake? This Pineapple Tres Leches Cake is the perfect fusion of rich, creamy milk goodness with the tropical sweetness of pineapple.
Ideal for any celebration or as a delightful treat to enjoy with family and friends, this cake is sure to impress with its moist texture and unforgettable flavor.
Pineapple Tres Leches Cake is a delicious take on the traditional Mexican dessert, combining the soft, fluffy texture of a sponge cake with the decadent flavor of pineapple. The cake absorbs a sweet, rich blend of three types of milk—evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream—creating an indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Topped with whipped cream and pineapple chunks, it’s a refreshing dessert that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients List
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box (15 oz) yellow cake mix (or homemade sponge cake)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (reserve the juice for the soaking milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Milk Mixture Ingredients
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from the crushed pineapple)
Whipped Cream Topping Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream (chilled)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pineapple chunks for decoration (optional)
Required Kitchen Tools
When preparing this Pineapple Tres Leches Cake, having the right kitchen tools is essential for success. Here are the key items you’ll need:
- Hand or Stand Mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer will help you mix the cake batter and whip the cream quickly and efficiently.
- 9×13-inch Baking Pan: This size of pan is ideal for the cake and allows the soaking liquid to be absorbed evenly throughout.
- Whisk: A whisk will help you mix the milk ingredients and create smooth, lump-free milk soak.
- Cooling Rack: Let the cake cool completely on a cooling rack before soaking it with the milk mixture.
- Piping Bag (optional): If you prefer a more decorative whipped cream topping, use a piping bag to pipe the whipped cream onto the cake.
Having these tools in your kitchen will make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable.
Cake Preparation
The key to a perfect Pineapple Tres Leches Cake lies in the preparation of the cake itself. A moist, fluffy cake is essential for soaking up the delicious milk mixture. Here’s how to prepare the cake:
Mixing the Ingredients
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, grated pineapple (drained), and vanilla extract. Use a hand or stand mixer to mix the ingredients on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Baking the Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes on a cooling rack.
Soaking the Cake
After your cake has cooled slightly, it’s time to soak it in the milk mixture. This is what makes the Tres Leches cake so irresistibly moist!
- Preparing the Milk Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and pineapple juice. Stir well to ensure the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Soaking the Cake: Using a fork or skewer, poke several holes all over the top of the cake to allow the milk mixture to soak in more evenly. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, starting from the edges and working your way toward the center. Be patient, as the cake will absorb the milk mixture. Let the cake soak for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Whipped Cream Topping
The final touch that makes your Pineapple Tres Leches Cake truly decadent is the light and fluffy whipped cream topping. It’s the perfect contrast to the rich, soaked cake.
Preparing the Whipped Cream
- Whipping the Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, pour the heavy cream and add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overbeat, as the cream can turn into butter if whipped too long.
- Spreading the Whipped Cream: Once the cake has absorbed the milk mixture and is fully soaked, gently spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the cake. You can use a spatula to smooth it out or pipe it in decorative patterns using a piping bag for a more elegant finish.
Decorating the Cake
For that extra pop of flavor and decoration, top your cake with fresh pineapple chunks. This adds a burst of tropical freshness that pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy layers of the cake.
Serving the Pineapple Tres Leches Cake
Now that your cake is assembled, it’s time to serve! This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so allow it to sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to slice the cake into squares, making sure each slice has a nice amount of the milk-soaked cake and whipped cream topping.
- Optional Garnishes: If desired, you can add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness and texture.
Storage Instructions
This Pineapple Tres Leches Cake is best enjoyed fresh, but you can easily store leftovers for later. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
How to Keep Pineapple Tres Leches Cake Fresh
- Refrigeration: After serving, cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep the cake in the refrigerator to maintain its moisture and creaminess. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings.
Freezing Pineapple Tres Leches Cake
If you want to store the cake for a longer period, you can freeze it:
- Freezing the Cake: First, allow the cake to cool completely after soaking. Once cooled, slice the cake into individual portions and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze for about 1 hour to firm up the pieces.
- Storing for Later: Once frozen, wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store the slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the cake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Conclusion
This Pineapple Tres Leches Cake is a perfect dessert for any occasion. With its rich, creamy texture, refreshing pineapple flavor, and light whipped cream topping, it’s sure to become a crowd favorite. Whether you’re making it for a family celebration, a potluck, or just because you want to indulge in something sweet and tropical, this cake delivers every time.
