Strawberry Tres Leches Sponge

Strawberry Tres Leches Sponge: A Luscious, Milky Dream Cake 🍓🥛✨

1. Introduction

Indulge in the heavenly delight of Strawberry Tres Leches Sponge, a moist and creamy cake that combines the rich tradition of Latin American tres leches with the bright, fresh sweetness of ripe strawberries. This strawberry tres leches cake recipe has been perfected through years of baking experimentation, offering the perfect balance of flavors and textures that will transport you to dessert paradise with every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.

For those who love exploring different tres leches variations, you might enjoy this inspiring strawberry milk tres leches recipe that offers another delicious take on the classic.

2. Ingredients

To make this irresistible Strawberry Tres Leches Sponge that serves 12-15 people, you’ll need the following carefully selected ingredients:

• 4 large eggs (room temperature for best results)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (you can reduce to 3/4 cup if you prefer less sweetness)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted for a lighter texture)
• 1 tsp baking powder (aluminum-free recommended)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (pure vanilla for superior flavor)
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed (about 15 medium strawberries)
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (the key to tres leches’ signature richness)
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk (not to be confused with sweetened condensed milk)
• 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup heavy cream (cold, for whipping)
• Fresh strawberries for garnish (plus mint leaves for presentation)
• Pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)

For more delicious dessert inspiration, check out these amazing recipes from MealsMom that pair perfectly with our strawberry tres leches cake.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sponge Cake Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and positioning the rack in the center. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or using a hand mixer), whisk the eggs and sugar together on medium-high speed for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes pale yellow, thick, and forms ribbons when the whisk is lifted. This aeration process is crucial for creating the light, airy texture that makes this strawberry tres leches cake recipe so special.

Step 2: Fold in the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt three times to ensure even distribution and maximum lightness. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate the air bubbles. When almost incorporated, add the vanilla extract and strawberry puree (made by blending fresh strawberries until smooth), folding just until no streaks remain. The batter should be light pink in color with visible strawberry flecks.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Pan

Select a 9×13-inch light-colored metal baking pan (dark pans may cause over-browning). Grease the bottom and sides with butter, then line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment as well. This preparation ensures your Strawberry Tres Leches Sponge will release perfectly after baking.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with an offset spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the cake is golden and springs back when lightly touched. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment overhang to transfer to a wire rack. While still warm, use a wooden skewer to poke holes all over the surface, spacing them about 1/2 inch apart – these channels will help the tres leches mixture penetrate evenly.

Step 5: Soak with Tres Leches Mixture

In a large measuring cup or bowl, thoroughly whisk together the condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk. Place the cake (still on the parchment) in a rimmed serving dish or back in the cleaned baking pan. Slowly pour the tres leches mixture over the cake, starting from the edges and moving inward, pausing occasionally to let it absorb. Use a spoon to drizzle any pooled liquid back over the cake. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight is ideal for maximum absorption and flavor development.

4. Serving Suggestions

About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the topping: Whip the cold heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional) until stiff peaks form. Spread evenly over the chilled cake. For a stunning presentation, arrange fresh strawberry slices in concentric circles and garnish with mint leaves. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. This strawberry tres leches cake recipe is best served cold, making it particularly refreshing for summer gatherings. Pair with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

5. Tips for the Perfect Cake

• Egg temperature matters: Room temperature eggs whip up much better than cold ones. To quickly warm refrigerated eggs, place them in warm water for 5-10 minutes before using.
• Strawberry selection: Choose ripe, fragrant strawberries for the puree. If they’re not perfectly sweet, macerate them with a teaspoon of sugar for 15 minutes before blending.
• Milk mixture absorption: For even soaking, poke holes while the cake is still warm and pour the milk mixture slowly in stages.
• Chilling time: Don’t rush the refrigeration – the full 4 hours (or overnight) allows the cake to fully absorb the tres leches and develop its signature moist texture.
• Presentation tip: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe between cuts.

6. Variations

This versatile strawberry tres leches cake recipe welcomes creative adaptations:

• Berry medley: Replace half the strawberries with raspberries or blackberries for a mixed berry version
• Citrus twist: Add 1 tablespoon lemon or orange zest to the batter for brightness
• Chocolate-strawberry: Sift 2 tablespoons cocoa powder with the dry ingredients
• Almond version: Substitute 1/4 cup flour with almond flour and add 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• Adult version: Spike the milk mixture with 2 tablespoons strawberry liqueur or rum

7. Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve over time as the cake continues to absorb the milks. For longer storage (up to 1 week), press plastic wrap directly onto the cut surfaces to prevent drying. This strawberry tres leches cake can be frozen (without whipped cream topping) for up to 1 month – thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but thaw and drain them well before pureeing. Frozen berries tend to release more liquid, so you may need to reduce the puree slightly in a saucepan to concentrate the flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely! This strawberry tres leches cake recipe actually benefits from being made 1-2 days in advance as the flavors meld beautifully.

Why did my cake sink in the middle? This usually happens if the cake is underbaked or the oven temperature was too low. Use an oven thermometer to verify your oven’s accuracy.

Can I use low-fat milk products? While possible, the texture won’t be as rich and creamy. The full-fat versions create the authentic tres leches experience.

How do I know when the milk mixture is fully absorbed? The cake should feel uniformly moist but not swimming in liquid. If excess pools after 30 minutes, you can carefully tilt the dish to redistribute.

9. Conclusion

This Strawberry Tres Leches Sponge represents the perfect marriage of traditional Latin American dessert techniques with fresh, seasonal fruit flavors. The light-as-air sponge soaked with three milks creates an irresistibly moist texture, while the strawberry infusion adds a modern, fruity twist that brightens the entire dessert. Whether you’re a tres leches aficionado or trying it for the first time, this strawberry tres leches cake recipe is guaranteed to impress. The make-ahead convenience and stunning presentation make it ideal for everything from casual family dinners to elegant celebrations. One bite of this creamy, berry-kissed delight, and you’ll understand why tres leches has remained a beloved dessert for generations. ¡Buen provecho!