This decadent pumpkin tres leches cake elevates the classic dessert with a warm autumnal twist. The best part? It's surprisingly easy to make using a box cake mix! This recipe cuts down on prep time without compromising on flavor or texture, making it perfect for busy bakers or those new to tres leches cakes.
What is Tres Leches Cake?
Tres leches cake, translating to "three milks" cake, is a sponge cake soaked in a mixture of evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. This creates a luxuriously moist and rich texture that's truly unforgettable. Our pumpkin version adds the comforting spice of fall, creating a perfect dessert for Thanksgiving, autumn gatherings, or any time you crave a comforting treat.
Why Use a Box Cake Mix for Tres Leches?
Using a box cake mix for this recipe doesn't mean sacrificing quality. It simply streamlines the process, allowing you to focus on the delicious milk mixture and the pumpkin spice elements that make this cake truly special. The box mix provides a reliable base, ensuring a consistently moist and evenly textured cake, perfect for absorbing the three milk mixture. You'll still have a homemade feel, but with significantly less effort.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- One 15.25-ounce box of your favorite spice cake mix (or yellow cake mix with pumpkin pie spice added)
- Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
- Optional: Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box. Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. Prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the box, adding the pumpkin puree to the batter.
- Bake: Bake the cake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This usually takes around 25-30 minutes, but check the cake mix instructions for specific baking times.
- Cool: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before adding the milk mixture. This ensures the cake absorbs the milk evenly without becoming soggy.
- Make the Milk Mixture: While the cake is cooling, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until well combined.
- Soak the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, evenly poke holes all over the top using a fork or skewer. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in completely. You may need to pour the mixture in stages, ensuring the cake is fully saturated. Any remaining milk mixture can be saved to drizzle over the top once the cake has absorbed the majority of the mixture.
- Chill: Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to become extra moist.
- Serve: Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes! While a spice cake mix works best for capturing the autumnal flavors, you can also use a yellow cake mix and add 1-2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice to the batter. A white cake mix will also work, but you may want to add some additional warming spices.
How long can I keep the pumpkin tres leches cake?
This cake is best served within 3-4 days of making it. Store it covered in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What if my cake is too soggy?
If your cake is too soggy, it's likely because it wasn't fully cooled before adding the milk mixture. Ensure the cake is completely cool to the touch before pouring the milk mixture over it to prevent excessive sogginess.
This recipe provides a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of fall with a classic dessert. The combination of pumpkin and tres leches is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more! Remember to adjust the spice levels to your preference. Happy baking!
