If you’re craving a dessert that’s both rich and refreshing, look no further than Strawberry Tres Leches Cake. This indulgent dessert combines the soft, airy texture of a classic tres leches cake with the sweet, fruity flavor of fresh strawberries.
The cake is soaked in a dreamy mix of three types of milk, creating an irresistible moisture that will melt in your mouth. Topped with a luscious strawberry whipped cream topping, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this strawberry twist on the traditional tres leches cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients List
Cake Ingredients:
- ½ cup butter (1 stick, softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 5 eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Milk Mixture:
- 1 (15 oz can) evaporated milk
- 1 ⅓ cups whole milk
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Strawberry Whipped Topping:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ⅓ cup pureed strawberries (fresh or thawed from frozen)
- ⅔ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Strawberry Garnish:
- 2 cups strawberries (diced, for topping)
Required Kitchen Tools
Before you begin baking this decadent Strawberry Tres Leches Cake, it’s helpful to have a few key kitchen tools on hand. These tools will ensure your cake comes out perfectly every time:
- Hand or Stand Mixer: For mixing the cake batter and whipping the cream to the ideal fluffy consistency.
- 9×13-inch Baking Pan: The perfect size to bake the cake and soak it with the tres leches mixture.
- Whisk: For stirring the dry ingredients and combining the milk mixture evenly.
- Spatula: Useful for spreading the whipped topping and ensuring a smooth finish.
- Electric Mixer or Hand Whisk: To whip the cream and sugar into soft peaks for the topping.
Having these tools will make preparing this Strawberry Tres Leches Cake an easy and fun process.
Cake Preparation: Creating the Perfect Base
The key to a successful Strawberry Tres Leches Cake lies in its soft, fluffy base. This cake requires just a few simple steps to prepare, but the results are absolutely divine. Let’s get started!
Mixing the Cake Batter
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: Begin by creaming together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand or stand mixer on medium speed to beat the mixture until light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Once the butter and sugar are creamed together, add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for an added touch of flavor.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can affect the cake’s texture.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Milk Mixture
While the cake is cooling, it’s time to prepare the three-milk soaking mixture that gives tres leches cakes their signature richness.
- In a medium bowl, combine the evaporated milk, whole milk, and heavy cream. Whisk the mixture together until fully blended. This is the liquid that will soak into the cake, making it beautifully moist and indulgent.
- Soaking the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, use a fork or toothpick to poke holes all over the surface. This will allow the milk mixture to soak in more effectively. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the entire cake, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Let the cake absorb the liquid for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Whipped Topping & Strawberry Garnish: The Finishing Touches
The final steps in creating your Strawberry Tres Leches Cake involve making the rich whipped topping and adding a fresh strawberry garnish. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also give the cake a beautiful, summery appeal. Let’s complete the dessert!
Preparing the Strawberry Whipped Cream
- Chill Your Mixing Bowl and Whisk: To achieve the best results, place your mixing bowl and whisk (or whisk attachment of your stand mixer) in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before whipping the cream. This helps the cream whip up faster and achieve a firmer texture.
- Whip the Heavy Cream: Once chilled, pour the heavy cream into the bowl. Use your electric mixer or stand mixer to beat the cream on medium-high speed until it begins to thicken. Add the powdered sugar, pureed strawberries, vanilla extract, and salt to the cream. Continue to beat until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip, as this could turn the cream into butter.
- Spread the Whipped Cream on the Cake: Once the cake has soaked up the tres leches mixture, spread the freshly whipped strawberry cream topping evenly over the entire surface of the cake. You can use a spatula to create gentle swirls, adding a little extra flair to the presentation.
Adding the Fresh Strawberry Garnish
- Dice the Strawberries: For a fresh burst of flavor and color, dice the strawberries into small, bite-sized pieces. These will sit on top of the whipped cream layer, adding a beautiful, vibrant look to the cake.
- Garnish the Cake: Scatter the diced strawberries evenly over the whipped topping. You can be generous with the garnish—after all, strawberries are the star of this dessert!
Serving and Storing Your Strawberry Tres Leches Cake
Now that your Strawberry Tres Leches Cake is assembled and garnished, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Here’s how to serve and store this mouthwatering dessert for the best experience.
Serving Tips
- Chill the Cake: For the best flavor and texture, let the cake chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) before serving. This allows the milk mixture to fully soak into the cake, ensuring each bite is rich and moist.
- Cutting the Cake: Use a sharp knife to slice the cake into squares, making sure to get a generous amount of the strawberry whipped cream and fresh strawberry garnish in each piece. The cake should cut smoothly, as the soaking process helps it maintain its shape.
- Pairing with Beverages: This cake pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of iced tea or a sweet latte. For a festive touch, serve it alongside a glass of rosé or Prosecco for a light, celebratory treat.
How to Store Strawberry Tres Leches Cake
While Strawberry Tres Leches Cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers to savor later.
- In the Refrigerator: Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cake will remain moist and flavorful, thanks to the tres leches mixture and whipped topping.
- Freezing the Cake: If you want to store the cake for longer, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. The cake can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Conclusion
Your Strawberry Tres Leches Cake is now complete, and it’s sure to be a hit at any event or as a delicious treat just for you. With its soft, milk-soaked cake, luscious strawberry whipped cream, and fresh strawberry garnish, this dessert brings together the perfect combination of creamy, fruity, and indulgent flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
