Gluten-Free Tres Leches Cake
This gluten-free tres leches cake is a delicious twist on the classic Latin dessert, featuring a moist and fluffy cake soaked in a rich blend of three milks and topped with sweet whipped cream. It’s an irresistible treat that’s easy to make and always receives rave reviews!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly moist and flavorful: The combination of evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk creates an incredibly moist cake that’s full of flavor.
- Gluten-free friendly: This cake uses gluten-free flour, making it ideal for those with dietary restrictions without compromising texture or taste.
- Simple and satisfying: With everyday ingredients, this cake comes together quickly and easily, making it perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Cake Ingredients:
- 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour (I recommend Pillsbury gluten-free)
- 1½ teaspoons gluten-free baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 5 large eggs, separated
- ¾ cup granulated sugar, divided
- ⅓ cup whole milk (2% milk works great too!)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup whole milk (or 2% milk)
- Ground cinnamon, for topping
Whipped Cream Topping:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
How To Make Gluten-Free Tres Leches Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat egg yolks with ½ cup sugar until pale and fluffy. Stir in milk and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the yolk mixture, stirring gently until fully combined.
Step 2: Whip the Egg Whites
- In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Slowly add remaining ¼ cup sugar while continuing to beat until glossy.
- Carefully fold egg whites into batter until just combined, being gentle to keep the batter airy and fluffy.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Add the Milk Mixture
- While the cake bakes, whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and remaining ¼ cup whole milk in a bowl.
- Allow cake to cool slightly (about 10 minutes), then poke holes all over the surface using a fork or skewer.
- Slowly pour milk mixture evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in completely. Let the cake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully absorb the milks.
Step 5: Prepare Whipped Cream Topping
- In a chilled bowl, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake and sprinkle lightly with ground cinnamon.
Tips for the Perfect Gluten-Free Tres Leches Cake
- Don’t rush cooling: Allow the cake to thoroughly chill in the refrigerator before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
- Beat egg whites properly: Use an electric mixer for best results, ensuring the bowl and beaters are grease-free to achieve stiff, glossy peaks.
- Customize your cake: Add fresh fruit like sliced strawberries, mango, or pineapple on top for a vibrant and tasty twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different gluten-free flour blend?
Absolutely! Just ensure your blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent for the best texture.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute coconut milk or almond milk for the dairy milks, and use coconut whipped cream as a topping.
Can I prepare this cake ahead of time?
Definitely! This cake actually tastes better after chilling overnight, making it ideal for preparing in advance.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This cake is best enjoyed cold.
Can I freeze tres leches cake?
You can freeze the cake after soaking with the milk mixture but before adding whipped cream. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to one month.
Flavor Variations
- Tropical Delight: Top with diced mango, pineapple, or shredded coconut for a refreshing tropical flair.
- Spiced Comfort: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the milk mixture for extra warmth and spice.
- Chocolate Twist: Drizzle chocolate sauce over the whipped cream or sprinkle with cocoa powder for chocolate lovers.
Serving Suggestions
This gluten-free tres leches cake is perfectly rich and moist, making it ideal for celebrations or simply satisfying a sweet tooth at home. Serve it chilled, sliced into small portions, and watch it disappear—it’s always a hit in my house!
Whether you’re gluten-free or not, this tres leches cake is a must-try dessert that will impress your guests and become a family favorite.
