Tres Leches Cake Using Box Cake Mix

a fluffy slice of tres leches cake melting in your mouth, each bite drenched in sweet milky goodness. The aroma wafting from the kitchen as it bakes is enough to make even the grumpiest cat purr. This is not just any cake; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that dance together like they’re auditioning for a Broadway show.

Now picture me during my first attempt at making this delicious treat. I was armed with nothing but enthusiasm and a box of cake mix. Little did I know that I was about to embark on an epic adventure—and by adventure, I mean a flour explosion that left my kitchen looking like a baking tornado hit it. But oh boy, was it worth it! This tres leches cake recipe with box cake mix is easy enough for anyone to tackle, even if you’ve never turned on an oven before.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This tres leches cake using box cake mix simplifies preparation while delivering rich flavors
  • It’s visually appealing with its creamy topping and can be easily customized
  • Perfect for celebrations or casual get-togethers!

I remember the first time I served this dessert at a family gathering—everyone’s eyes widened in delight as they took their first bites. The compliments rolled in like waves crashing on the shore.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boxed Vanilla Cake Mix: Choose your favorite brand for convenience; it saves time while ensuring deliciousness.
  • Eggs: These will help bind everything together; go for large eggs for best results.
  • Milk: Use whole milk for a richer flavor; it adds creaminess that’s hard to resist.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is where the magic happens; it makes the cake decadently sweet and moist.
  • Evaporated Milk: Adds another layer of richness and creaminess that makes each bite unforgettable.
  • Whipped Cream: For topping; homemade or store-bought works wonders in adding a light finish.
  • Cinnamon (optional): A sprinkle on top gives it an aromatic touch and enhances overall flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so your masterpiece won’t stick and embarrass you later.

Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the boxed vanilla cake mix with eggs and water as directed on the package. Stir until smooth; no one wants lumpy batter here.

Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and bake according to package instructions until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Create the Milk Mixture: While the cake cools slightly, whisk together whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk in another bowl. This mixture is what makes our tres leches truly special!

Poke Holes: Once your cake has cooled slightly but is still warm, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over its surface. This allows those milks to soak in like they’re taking a refreshing dip.

Add the Milk Mixture: Pour your luscious milk mixture over the poked-up cake slowly so it absorbs every drop of joy. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before refrigerating.

Topping Time: After chilling for at least two hours (or overnight for ultimate flavor), spread whipped cream generously on top, and dust with cinnamon if you’re feeling fancy.

Now stand back and admire your creation! You’ve just made an irresistible tres leches cake that will disappear faster than you can say “more please!”

Serve slices chilled or at room temperature—either way, prepare for compliments galore!

Enjoy creating memories as you share this delightful dessert with friends and family—you might even want to keep some hidden away just for yourself!

You Must Know

  • This tres leches cake recipe with box cake is a game changer for dessert lovers
  • It simplifies your baking while delivering a moist and flavorful treat that everyone will adore
  • The delightful aroma and soft texture will have guests asking for seconds, or even thirds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, bake the box cake according to package instructions, then let it cool completely before soaking it. This ensures maximum absorption of the milks.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Consider adding flavored extracts like vanilla or almond to the milk mixture for extra depth. Fresh fruit or nuts as toppings can also enhance the cake’s appearance and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store the tres leches cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For serving, simply cut slices directly from the fridge; there’s no need to reheat.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To make this tres leches cake recipe with box cake truly shine, ensure your cake is completely cooled before soaking
  • Use a fork to poke holes for better absorption, and don’t skip chilling time; it enhances flavors beautifully!

I still remember the first time I made this tres leches cake for my family’s get-together. They devoured it faster than I could say “delicious,” leaving me humbled by their enthusiastic praise!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, any vanilla or yellow box cake mix works well for this recipe.

How long should I soak the cake?

Let the cake soak for at least 1 hour in the milk mixture for optimal flavor.

Can I freeze leftover tres leches cake?

Yes, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to three months.

Print
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Delicious Tres Leches Cake Slice

Easy Tres Leches Cake Using Box Cake Mix


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  • Author: Sophie
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 12 slices 1x

Description

Indulge in a creamy and delightful tres leches cake, effortlessly made using a box cake mix. Perfectly moist, this sweet treat is ideal for any celebration.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box vanilla cake mix (15.25 oz)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
  • 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz)
  • 2 cups whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine boxed cake mix, eggs, and water as per package instructions; mix until smooth.
  3. Pour batter into the prepared dish; bake according to package instructions until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
  4. While cooling, whisk together whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk in another bowl.
  5. Once the cake is slightly cooled but still warm, poke holes all over the surface with a fork or skewer.
  6. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
  7. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before refrigerating for at least two hours (or overnight).
  8. Top with whipped cream before serving; sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.

Notes

  •  For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the milk mixture.
  •  Consider topping the cake with fresh fruit or nuts for added texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 35g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

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