Strawberry Tres Leches Cake Recipe

Strawberry Tres Leches Cake – A Decadent, Moist Dessert Everyone Falls in Love With

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s luxuriously moist, beautifully fruity, and guaranteed to impress, this Strawberry Tres Leches Cake is the one. A tender vanilla sponge cake soaked in a rich three-milk strawberry infusion, then finished with a cloud-like strawberry whipped topping, this cake delivers bakery-level indulgence with surprisingly simple ingredients. Every bite melts in your mouth with balanced sweetness, fresh strawberry flavor, and creamy perfection.

This recipe is loved for its foolproof method, show-stopping appearance, and the way it transforms classic tres leches into a fruit-forward masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or craving an unforgettable homemade dessert, this cake never disappoints.

Ingredients and Their Roles

Strawberry Milk Mixture

2 cups diced strawberries – Provide fresh, natural strawberry flavor and vibrant color.
¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the strawberries and helps draw out their juices.
1 (15 oz) can evaporated milk – Adds richness and body to the soaking liquid.
1⅓ cups whole milk – Balances the creaminess and ensures even absorption.
¼ cup heavy cream – Creates a luxurious, velvety milk mixture.

Vanilla Sponge Cake

½ cup butter (1 stick) – Adds flavor, moisture, and tenderness.
1 cup sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps create a soft crumb.
5 eggs – Provide structure, lift, and richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor and warmth.
1½ cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base structure of the cake.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Ensures a light, airy rise.
½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Strawberry Whipped Topping

2 cups heavy cream – Whips into a fluffy, stable topping.
⅓ cup pureed strawberries – Adds natural strawberry flavor and color.
⅔ cup powdered sugar – Sweetens while maintaining a smooth texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the sweetness.
½ teaspoon salt – Prevents the topping from tasting flat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.

2. Make the Strawberry Milk

In a saucepan, combine diced strawberries and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries soften and release their juices. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Blend the strawberry mixture until smooth. Strain if desired. Whisk together evaporated milk, whole milk, heavy cream, and strawberry puree.

3. Soak the Cake

Poke holes all over the cooled cake using a fork or skewer. Slowly pour the strawberry milk mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in fully. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

4. Prepare the Strawberry Whipped Topping

Beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar, pureed strawberries, vanilla, and salt. Continue beating until stiff peaks form. Spread evenly over the chilled cake.

Why This Recipe Is So Loved

Ultra-moist texture without being soggy
Fresh strawberry flavor in every layer
Perfect balance of sweetness
Elegant yet easy dessert for any occasion

Pro Tips for Perfect Strawberry Tres Leches

Use ripe, sweet strawberries for maximum flavor.
Let the cake chill overnight for the best texture.
Whip cream when cold for best volume.
Strain strawberry puree for a smoother finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled with fresh strawberry slices, a drizzle of strawberry syrup, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Pair with coffee, tea, or vanilla ice cream for a complete dessert experience.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Tres Leches Cake is the ultimate combination of simplicity and indulgence. With its soft sponge, creamy strawberry milk soak, and fluffy whipped topping, it delivers unforgettable flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for celebrations or everyday treats, this recipe stands out for its quality, reliability, and irresistible taste — making it a true showstopper that outshines the rest.