Name: Chocolate Tres Leches Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 34 min
Total time: 5 h 4 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: For the cake:; 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; ½ cup canola oil; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup freshly brewed strong hot coffee; For the Tres Leches mixture:; 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk; 1 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; For the whipped cream topping:; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; ¼ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Tres Leches Cake

Craving a rich, moist cake that melts in your mouth? Look no further than the irresistible Chocolate Tres Leches Cake. This classic dessert gets a decadent makeover with a hint of cocoa.

The secret to this cake’s heavenly texture lies in the “tres leches” – a blend of sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk that soaks into the fluffy chocolate sponge. The result is a symphony of flavors and textures that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Topped with a cloud-like whipped cream, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or a simple weeknight treat.

Making your own Chocolate Tres Leches Cake is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dessert that will impress your family and friends. So why not treat yourself to this indulgent masterpiece? Your taste buds will thank you.

Questions I often get asked about this recipe:

What is Tres Leches cake?
Tres Leches is a popular Latin American cake soaked in a mixture of three milks: sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk. This recipe adds a rich chocolate twist to the classic dessert.

Can I use a different type of milk for the Tres Leches mixture?
While the traditional recipe uses sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk, you can experiment with different milk combinations. However, for the best results, it’s recommended to stick to the original recipe.

How long can I store the Chocolate Tres Leches Cake?
The cake is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake and soak it in the Tres Leches mixture a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

What can I do if the cake is too dry?
If your cake is slightly dry, you can add a bit more Tres Leches mixture or drizzle it with caramel sauce. However, the beauty of Tres Leches cake is its moist texture, so it’s important to follow the recipe carefully.

Can I freeze Chocolate Tres Leches Cake?
While it’s not recommended to freeze the entire cake, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What you need to make Chocolate Tres Leches Cake:

For the cake:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

1 ¾ cups granulated sugar

¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking powder

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup buttermilk

½ cup canola oil

2 large eggs (room temperature)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup freshly brewed strong hot coffee

For the Tres Leches mixture:

1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk

1 cup whole milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the whipped cream topping:

1 cup heavy whipping cream

¼ cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to make it:

Make the cake:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the coffee.

Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool completely in the pan before proceeding.

Make the Tres Leches mixture:

In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, whole milk, and vanilla extract.

Assemble the cake:

Poke holes all over the cooled cake using a fork or skewer.

Slowly pour the Tres Leches mixture evenly over the cake.

Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Make the whipped cream topping:

In a cold bowl, beat heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla extract.

Serve:

Top with whipped cream and enjoy!

Tips:

For a richer flavor, use dark cocoa powder.

You can add a layer of caramel sauce or chocolate ganache on top for extra indulgence.

For a more intense chocolate flavor, use instant coffee in the cake batter.

Add a few sliced strawberries or a few raspberries to garnish.

Latest Reviews:

This Chocolate Tres Leches Cake is pure bliss! The cake was moist and flavorful, and the Tres Leches mixture was divine. The whipped cream topping was the perfect finishing touch. Definitely a crowd-pleaser! Karen D.

I followed this recipe to a T and it turned out amazing! The cake was so easy to make, and the end result was incredibly delicious. My family raved about it. Will be making this again and again. Susan J.

This Chocolate Tres Leches Cake recipe is a keeper! The combination of rich chocolate and creamy Tres Leches is unbeatable. I added some fresh berries on top for a fruity twist. Highly recommend! Danny R.

Printable Recipe:

Yield: 12 servings