Tres leches cake is known for its decadent, creamy texture. But the thought of making it from scratch can seem daunting. This recipe simplifies the process by using a box cake mix as a base, resulting in a delicious and impressive pumpkin tres leches cake without the fuss. Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe delivers all the rich flavor and creamy indulgence you crave.
What is Tres Leches Cake?
Tres leches cake, literally translating to "three milks cake," is a sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three kinds of milk: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. This creates a supremely moist and rich dessert. Our pumpkin version infuses the classic recipe with the warm, comforting flavors of autumn.
Why Use a Box Cake Mix for Tres Leches?
Using a box cake mix isn't cheating; it's a smart shortcut! It provides a consistent base, saving you time and effort without sacrificing flavor. The focus then shifts to creating the delightful tres leches milk mixture and achieving that perfect moistness. You can still personalize the cake with additions like spices or extracts to enhance the pumpkin flavor.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- One box of spice cake mix (or yellow cake mix – see variations below)
- Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (eggs, oil, water)
- 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Whipped cream, candied pecans, or pumpkin spice for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box. Prepare the batter according to the package directions, adding the pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before proceeding. This prevents the cake from breaking apart when you add the milk mixture.
- Make the Tres Leches Mixture: While the cake cools, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream in a large bowl until well combined.
- Soak the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, poke holes all over the top using a fork or toothpick. This allows the milk mixture to penetrate the cake evenly. Gradually pour the tres leches mixture over the cake, ensuring it's evenly soaked. You may not need all of the mixture; let the cake absorb as much as it will. Any leftover mixture can be refrigerated for later use or enjoyed on its own.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to become fully saturated. Garnish with whipped cream, candied pecans, or pumpkin spice before serving.
How Long Does Pumpkin Tres Leches Cake Last?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, your pumpkin tres leches cake will last for 3-4 days. It's best enjoyed within the first two days for optimal texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This is a perfect make-ahead dessert. In fact, the flavors develop more fully when the cake is refrigerated overnight. Prepare the cake and soak it a day or two before your event for a truly impressive and delicious result.
What are Some Variations for this Recipe?
- Spice it Up: Add more pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, or nutmeg for a more intense pumpkin flavor.
- Chocolate Delight: Use a chocolate cake mix and add a touch of espresso powder to the batter for a rich chocolate pumpkin tres leches.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Top with a layer of cream cheese frosting for extra richness.
Is it possible to freeze this cake?
While freezing tres leches cake isn't ideal as the texture might change slightly upon thawing, you can freeze the baked cake before soaking it in the milk mixture. Thaw it completely before proceeding with the soaking process.
This pumpkin tres leches cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The ease of using a box cake mix makes it accessible to all skill levels, while the delicious result will impress even the most discerning dessert lover. Enjoy!
