Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake is a luxurious, make-ahead dessert that combines the lightness of sponge cake with the rich indulgence of a three-milk soak. Finished with macerated berries and a generous dollop of whipped cream, this dessert is ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal stress. Its moist texture, delicate sweetness, and fresh topping create a balanced flavor that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

What Is Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake?

Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake is a moist sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three milks—evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. Topped with fresh berries and whipped cream, it’s a delightful dessert that’s both rich and refreshing.

Ina Garten Tres Leches Cake recipe — Ina Garten Tres Leches Cake

Other Ina Garten Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance; it tastes even better after chilling.
Elegant Presentation: The combination of berries and whipped cream makes it visually appealing.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serves 9 to 12, making it ideal for gatherings.
Flavorful: The almond and vanilla extracts add depth to the cake.
Moist Texture: The three-milk soak ensures a luscious, moist crumb.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake

For the Cake:

1½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
¾ teaspoon kosher salt
3 extra-large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup plus 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
½ cup whole milk

For the Milk Mixture:

1¼ cups heavy cream
1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
½ teaspoon pure almond extract
Seeds scraped from 1 vanilla bean

For the Topping:

8 cups sliced fresh strawberries
5 tablespoons granulated sugar
Sifted confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Whipped cream, for serving

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter a 9-by-13-by-2-inch baking pan.
Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into a small bowl and set aside.
In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the eggs, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and the vanilla extract on medium-high speed for 10 minutes, until light yellow and fluffy.
Reduce the speed to low and slowly add half the flour mixture, then the milk, and finally the remaining flour mixture. Mix with a rubber spatula to ensure the batter is well combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake for 25 minutes, until the cake springs back when lightly touched in the center and a cake tester comes out clean. Set aside to cool in the pan for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Milk Mixture

In a 4-cup liquid measuring cup, whisk together the heavy cream, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, almond extract, and vanilla seeds.
Using a bamboo skewer, poke holes all over the cooled cake. Slowly pour the cream mixture over the cake, allowing it to be absorbed completely before adding more.
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping

Toss the sliced strawberries with the remaining 5 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
Dust the cake with confectioners’ sugar, cut into squares, and place on dessert plates. Surround each piece with the macerated strawberries, top with a dollop of whipped cream, and serve.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake

Fresh Berries: Enhance the dessert with a mix of raspberries and blueberries.
Coffee or Espresso: Balances the sweetness of the cake.
Mint Leaves: Add a fresh garnish for visual appeal.
Light Dessert Wine: Complements the creamy texture and sweet flavor.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake

Use Room Temperature Eggs: Ensures better volume when beating.
Beat Eggs and Sugar Thoroughly: A full 10-minute beat incorporates air for a light sponge.
Allow Cake to Cool Completely: Prevents the milk mixture from pooling.
Chill the Cake: Refrigerate for at least 6 hours to let the flavors meld.
Prepare Whipped Cream Fresh: For the best texture and taste.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake

Add a Splash of Rum: Incorporate into the milk mixture for a boozy twist.
Use Different Fruits: Top with mango slices or peaches for a tropical flair.
Infuse Milk Mixture: Add a cinnamon stick while heating the milk mixture for added warmth.
Chocolate Tres Leches: Add cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolate version.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake

Refrigerate: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Do Not Freeze: Freezing may alter the texture of the soaked cake.
Store Toppings Separately: Keep whipped cream and berries separate until serving.

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake

Serve Cold: This dessert is best enjoyed chilled.
Avoid Reheating: Warming may cause the whipped cream to melt and the cake to become overly soft.

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 619
Total Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 85g
Dietary Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 63g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 136mg
Sodium: 293mg

FAQs

Can Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake be made a day ahead?

Yes, this cake is ideal for making in advance. The longer it rests in the fridge, the more the milk mixture absorbs, resulting in a moist and flavorful texture.

Why is my Tres Leches Cake soggy in the middle?

If the cake becomes too soggy, it may be due to over-pouring the milk mixture or not allowing enough time for it to absorb between pours. Always pour slowly and let it soak in gradually.

Can I use boxed cake mix for Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake?

While you can, the texture and flavor won’t be the same. Ina’s homemade sponge creates the perfect light structure to absorb the milk without turning mushy.

What type of milk is used in Tres Leches Cake?

Tres Leches means “three milks.” The recipe uses evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream for a rich, creamy soak.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Tres Leches Cake with Berries is a luscious dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or as a make-ahead treat. Its moist texture and rich flavor, complemented by fresh berries and whipped cream, make it a standout choice for any dessert table.