tres leche chocolate cake recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best tres leche chocolate cake recipe

I have been making this tres leche chocolate cake recipe for years and it is always a hit with my family. My kids ask for it every birthday and holiday because it is so rich and moist. The combination of chocolate and three milks makes it feel special but it is actually simple to put together. I love that I can make it ahead of time and it gets even better after sitting in the fridge overnight. It is a perfect dessert for summer barbecues or cozy winter dinners and it always disappears fast.

Tres Leche Chocolate Cake

Tres Leche Chocolate Cake

4.6 from 1876 votes

A moist and decadent chocolate cake soaked in a mixture of three milks. This twist on the classic tres leches cake is perfect for chocolate lovers and special occasions.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk

For the Tres Leches Mixture

1 can 12 oz evaporated milk
1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Topping

1 1/2 cups heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla, beating well after each addition.
4Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until combined.
5Pour batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely in the pan.
6While the cake cools, whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and 1/2 cup heavy cream in a small bowl.
7Poke holes all over the cooled cake with a fork or skewer. Slowly pour the tres leches mixture over the cake, making sure it soaks in evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8For the topping, beat 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread over the chilled cake. Garnish with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Whisk
Spatula
Toothpick

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 14g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 290mg🌾Total Carbs: 47g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 34g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, use dark cocoa powder. The cake needs to chill for at least 2 hours for the best texture.

Watch Video Of How Tres Leche Chocolate Cake Works

This tres leche chocolate cake is a dessert I turn to again and again because it is easy to make and always gets compliments. It works well for birthday parties, family dinners, or any time you want a rich treat. I hope you try it and love it as much as my family does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tres Leche Chocolate Cake

1. Can I use a different type of milk in the tres leches mixture?

You can substitute the whole milk in the cake batter with a non dairy milk if needed, but the tres leches mixture should use evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream for the best texture and flavor.

2. How long does this cake keep?

This cake keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.

3. Can I make this cake gluten free?

Yes, you can use a gluten free all purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour. Make sure the blend contains a binder like xanthan gum.

4. Do I have to use heavy cream for the topping?

Heavy cream makes the best whipped topping, but you can use a stabilized whipped topping or a dairy free whipped cream if you prefer.

5. My cake seems dry after baking. What went wrong?

Dryness can happen if you overbake the cake. Check it a few minutes early and remember that the tres leches mixture will soak in and add moisture.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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