Tiramisu Tres Leches Cake

Imagine the dreamy creaminess of tiramisu meeting the rich, milky goodness of tres leches cake. That’s exactly what this Tiramisu Tres Leches Cake delivers! It’s a melt-in-your-mouth experience with layers of espresso-soaked sponge, a luxurious tres leches mixture, and a heavenly mascarpone whipped topping.

This cake is light yet decadent, moist yet fluffy, and full of bold coffee flavor—the perfect dessert for coffee lovers and those who crave something indulgent but not overly sweet. Trust me, once you try this fusion of two classic desserts, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love Tiramisu Tres Leches Cake

Ultra-Moist & Soaked to Perfection

The tres leches mixture keeps the cake irresistibly soft and creamy.

Rich Espresso Flavor

If you love tiramisu, this cake delivers that bold coffee kick in every bite.

Decadent Yet Airy

A balance of richness and lightness makes it satisfying without feeling too heavy.

Make-Ahead Friendly

Actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen—perfect for parties!

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

No complicated techniques, just layers of pure deliciousness.

Ingredients in Tiramisu Tres Leches Cake

For the Cake:

All-Purpose Flour

Gives the cake a light yet sturdy texture, perfect for soaking up the tres leches.

Baking Powder

Ensures the cake rises beautifully.

Salt

Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Eggs

Whipped to create a fluffy, airy cake base.

Granulated Sugar

Adds sweetness and structure to the cake.

Vanilla Extract

A touch of warmth and depth to complement the coffee flavors.

Whole Milk

Keeps the cake tender and moist.

For the Tres Leches Mixture:

Sweetened Condensed Milk

Adds rich sweetness and a velvety texture.

Evaporated Milk

A lighter milk that helps create the perfect soaking consistency.

Heavy Cream

Brings a luscious, creamy finish to the milk mixture.

Espresso or Strong Coffee

Infuses that classic tiramisu coffee flavor into every bite.

For the Mascarpone Whipped Topping:

Mascarpone Cheese

The key to that smooth, slightly tangy, ultra-luxurious topping.

Heavy Whipping Cream

Makes the topping light and airy.

Powdered Sugar

Sweetens without making it heavy.

Vanilla Extract

Enhances the creaminess.

For Garnish:

Cocoa Powder

A classic tiramisu touch for a hint of chocolate bitterness.

Chocolate Shavings or Coffee Beans

For extra elegance and a bit of crunch.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Make the Cake Batter

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

Whip the Eggs & Sugar

Beat the eggs and sugar until pale, thick, and doubled in volume—this gives the cake its airy texture.

Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the dry mixture and vanilla, alternating with the milk, until smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Tres Leches Mixture

Whisk together the condensed milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, and espresso.

Soak the Cake

Once the cake is slightly cooled, poke holes all over with a fork and slowly pour the milk mixture over the top, allowing it to absorb fully.

Make the Mascarpone Whipped Topping

Beat the mascarpone, cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy.

Frost the Cake

Spread the mascarpone topping evenly over the soaked cake.

Dust with Cocoa Powder

Lightly sift cocoa powder over the top for that classic tiramisu touch.

Chill & Serve

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld. Garnish with chocolate shavings or coffee beans before serving.

How to Serve Tiramisu Tres Leches Cake

• With a Cup of Espresso: Double up on the coffee goodness.
• Topped with Whipped Cream: For an extra creamy finish.
• With Fresh Berries: Adds a bright, fruity contrast.
• As a Make-Ahead Dessert: The longer it sits, the better it gets!

Additional Tips

Let It Chill

This cake is best when made ahead and refrigerated for at least 4 hours.

Don’t Skip the Espresso

The coffee-soaked cake is what makes this a true tiramisu-inspired dessert.

Use High-Quality Mascarpone

The creamier the mascarpone, the silkier the topping.

Make It Boozy

Add a splash of coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa) to the tres leches mixture for an adult twist.

Don’t Overmix the Topping

Overbeating can make the mascarpone curdle—mix just until fluffy.

FAQ Section

Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of mascarpone?

Yes, but mascarpone makes it extra rich and authentic.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in the fridge, covered, for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze this cake?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it before adding the topping. Thaw and frost when ready to serve.

Can I make this without coffee?

Yes! Use vanilla or cinnamon in the tres leches mixture for a non-coffee version.

What’s the best way to poke holes in the cake?

Use a fork or a skewer to evenly distribute the soaking mixture.

Can I use a different pan size?

You can, but the soaking time may vary. A deeper cake may take longer to absorb the tres leches.

What kind of cocoa powder should I use?

Unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa gives the best flavor.

Can I make this as cupcakes?

Yes! Bake the batter in cupcake liners and soak each with a spoonful of the tres leches mixture.

Do I need to refrigerate this cake before serving?

Absolutely! Chilling helps the flavors blend and makes the texture even better.

How can I make this even more tiramisu-like?

Layer it with espresso-dipped ladyfingers for an extra authentic touch.

Final Thoughts

This Tiramisu Tres Leches Cake is the best of both worlds—moist, creamy, and bursting with coffee flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a party or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to impress. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

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