Tres Leches (my recipe) Quick Method

1 box French Vanilla cake mix

Do not follow the instructions on the box.

This is what you need.

1 box cake mix

4 eggs

2 tbsps oil

1 1/4 cup water

Mix well and add to a 9 x 13 square pan that has been greased well. Bake at 350° about 20 minutes or until golden.

Remove cake on to a platter and poke holes through out the entire cake. Mix milks and pour into the holes until well saturated. Make your chantilly cream and decorate to your liking. This is a single layer cake. Refrigerate 1 to 2 hours or overnight.

Milks

1 12 oz can evaporated milk

1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk

1 cup heavy cream or half and half

Chantilly Cream

2 cups heavy whipping cream

6 tbsps powdered sugar

2 tsp vanilla

Beat with mixer on high and gradually sugar and vanilla just until peaks set.

Notes:

French Vanilla Cake Mix: While a boxed French Vanilla cake mix is used, the instructions on the box are not followed. Instead, the mix is combined with eggs, oil, and water to create the cake batter.

Cake Batter: Combine the cake mix with eggs, oil, and water, then mix well. Pour the batter into a well-greased 9 x 13 square pan and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Poking Holes: Once the cake is baked, transfer it onto a platter and poke holes throughout the entire cake using a fork or skewer. This allows the milks to soak into the cake evenly.

Milks Mixture: Prepare the tres leches mixture by combining evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream or half and half. Pour this mixture over the baked cake, ensuring it saturates the cake completely.

Chantilly Cream: Whip heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until peaks form. This fluffy and sweetened whipped cream is used to top the Tres Leches cake.

Assembly and Decoration: Once the cake is saturated with the milks mixture, refrigerate it for 1 to 2 hours or overnight. Before serving, top the cake with the prepared Chantilly cream and decorate it according to your preference.

Refrigeration: Refrigerating the Tres Leches cake allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to absorb the milks mixture fully, resulting in a moist and delicious dessert.

Customization: Feel free to customize the cake by adding flavorings such as rum or almond extract to the milks mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving: Serve the Tres Leches cake chilled, enjoying the combination of moist cake, creamy milks, and fluffy Chantilly cream.

Make-Ahead Option: This cake can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to serve, making it a convenient and impressive dessert option for gatherings and celebrations.

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 350 | Fat: 20 grams | Carbohydrates: 35 grams | Protein: 7 grams

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix instead of French Vanilla?

Yes, you can use any flavor of cake mix you prefer, but it will alter the taste of the final cake.

Do I have to use a 9 x 13 square pan, or can I use a different size?

Using a 9 x 13 pan is recommended for this recipe to ensure the cake bakes evenly and has the right texture.

How long should I poke holes in the cake after baking?

You should poke holes throughout the entire cake using a fork or toothpick immediately after removing it from the oven.

Can I refrigerate the cake for longer than 2 hours before serving?

Yes, you can refrigerate the cake for up to 24 hours before serving if desired.

This may enhance the flavors as the milks soak into the cake further.

Can I substitute the heavy cream for another type of milk in the chantilly cream?

While heavy whipping cream is recommended for the chantilly cream for its richness, you can substitute it with half and half or whole milk for a lighter version.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done baking when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer to make the chantilly cream?

Yes, you can use a hand mixer to whip the chantilly cream if you don’t have a stand mixer.

Just ensure that you beat it until stiff peaks form.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake overnight, or can I serve it immediately?

While refrigerating the cake for 1 to 2 hours or overnight allows the milks to fully soak into the cake, you can also serve it immediately if preferred.

However, the texture may be slightly different.

Can I make this cake ahead of time for a special occasion?

Yes, this cake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

It’s a great option for parties or gatherings.

Can I add any additional toppings or garnishes to the cake?

Yes, you can customize the cake by adding fresh fruit, shaved chocolate, or additional whipped cream on top before serving.

Be creative and make it your own!