Strawberry Tres Leches Cake – Easy Summer Dessert

Have you ever needed a dessert that’s equal parts stunning and simple? Imagine this: you just wrapped a long day, and now you’re planning to whip up something delightful for your family or friends. You want something quick yet impressive. This Strawberry Tres Leches Cake is your answer.

This cake is moist, flavorful, and practically melts in your mouth. With a cloud-soft sponge soaked in three kinds of milk and topped with juicy strawberries and whipped cream, this treat is the definition of indulgence — and yes, it’s easier than it looks.

Whether you’re trying a TikTok strawberry tres leches cake recipe, recreating grandma’s old-fashioned favorite, or exploring a new dessert trend, this recipe delivers every time.

If you’re wondering how to make strawberry tres leches cake at home, keep reading for the easiest, most irresistible recipe online.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Tres Leches Cake

• Only 20 minutes of prep – no fancy equipment required!
• Moist and fluffy sponge that soaks up every drop of rich milk.
• Fresh strawberries add a sweet-tart punch.
• Perfect for parties, holidays, and summer cookouts.
• Customizable: Use cake mix or turn it into a Strawberry Tres Leches Crunch Cake!

Looking for the best way to make Strawberry Tres Leches Cake at home? You’ve found it!

Ingredients for Strawberry Tres Leches Cake

For the Sponge Cake:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 5 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Tres Leches Mixture:

• 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 1 pint fresh strawberries, sliced
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• Optional: Fresh mint sprigs for garnish

For the Whipped Cream Frosting:

• 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
• ¼ cup powdered sugar

For a shortcut, try a Strawberry Tres Leches Cake with cake mix using a vanilla box mix instead of the sponge recipe above.

How to Make Strawberry Tres Leches Cake – Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Beat the Eggs

Separate the egg whites and yolks:

• Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
• In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with sugar until pale and creamy. Mix in milk and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine the Batter

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the yolk mixture. Gently fold in the beaten egg whites. Don’t overmix — this is key to a light sponge.

Step 5: Bake

Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.

Step 6: Poke and Soak

Poke holes all over the cake using a fork. Mix the tres leches (evaporated milk, condensed milk, heavy cream). Pour slowly and evenly over the cake.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 7: Make the Strawberry Topping

Toss sliced strawberries with powdered sugar. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes to release their juices.

Step 8: Make the Whipped Cream

Beat heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

Step 9: Assemble

Spread whipped cream over the chilled, soaked cake. Top with sugared strawberries and garnish with mint.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Strawberry Tres Leches Cake

• Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter.
• Fold egg whites gently to avoid deflating the sponge.
• Don’t rush the soaking time – overnight soaking yields the most luscious results.
• Make it ahead for stress-free entertaining.
• Swap strawberries with mango, blueberries, or peaches for variety.
• Want crunch? Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs on top for a Strawberry Tres Leches Crunch Cake twist.

Best Ways to Serve Strawberry Tres Leches Cake

• Serve chilled with a sprig of mint.
• Pair with a light espresso or fruity sangria.
• Dress it up with chocolate drizzle, toasted coconut, or lemon zest.
• Try it with our Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies for the ultimate berry-themed dessert spread.

Nutritional Information (per slice)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbs: 44g
• Sugar: 30g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Protein: 8g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fiber: 1g

Note: Values may vary slightly depending on toppings and substitutions.

Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigerate covered for up to 4 days.
• Avoid freezing – it may turn mushy due to the milk soak.
• To re-serve, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes for optimal texture.

FAQs – Strawberry Tres Leches Cake

How long should tres leches soak?
At least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor and texture.

Why are tres leches cakes not soggy?
The sponge cake is airy and designed to absorb liquid without collapsing, so it stays moist, not soggy.

What’s the difference between dulce de leche and tres leches?
Dulce de leche is caramelized milk; tres leches refers to a cake soaked in three milks — very different flavors and uses.

What kind of cake mix for tres leches?
Use a vanilla or butter yellow cake mix if you’re going the shortcut route.

More Flavorful Ideas to Try Next

• Huckleberry Pie | Easy Homemade Summer Dessert
• Cookie Monster Ice Cream | Best Homemade Dessert
• Cookies and Cream Cookies

Before You Go

And there you have it – the ultimate Strawberry Tres Leches Cake recipe that’s easy, customizable, and sure to impress! Whether you’re baking for a party, a date night, or just because you deserve a treat, this cake delivers flavor, fun, and full-on satisfaction.

Now you know how to make the best Strawberry Tres Leches Cake at home – no bakery trip required!

Try it out and let us know:

• Did you make the TikTok version?
• Did you add a crunch layer?
• Leave a comment, share your creation, and tag us online!

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