A gift card makes it easy for them to bring beautiful things home.  Shop gift cards.

Renew, sign up, or gift a subscription to Magnolia Journal for inspiration year-round. Start here.

Stock up to make all your favorite treats. Shop bakeware.

Tres Leches Cake

byJoanna Gaines
Total 3 hours (includes cooling time)
Active 25 mins
Makes One 9x13-inch cake
Ingredients
  • Butter, for the pan
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 6 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 3 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup milk, at room temperature
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • One 12-ounce can evaporated milk
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus more for sprinkling
  • One 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
  • Sliced fresh strawberries, whipped cream (see recipe here), and mint leaves, for serving (optional)
Directions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with butter.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the eggs and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy and the color is lightened, 6 to 7 minutes. Slowly add 2 teaspoons of the vanilla and mix until just combined.
  4. With the mixer on low speed, add half of the flour mixture, then the milk, finishing with the remaining flour mixture, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean, 23 to 28 minutes. Let the cake cool completely, approximately 1 hour.
  6. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, whisk together the cream, evaporated milk, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until completely combined and smooth. Set aside for 5 to 8 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  7. Whisk the sweetened condensed milk and the remaining 1 teaspoon vanilla into the cream mixture.
  8. Using a fork, poke holes in the top of the cooled cake. Pour the cream mixture over the cake. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  9. Slice and sprinkle each serving with cinnamon. Serve with sliced strawberries, whipped cream, and fresh mint leaves, if desired.
  10. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.