The classic Latin American dessert Tres Leches Cake has been a family favorite for decades, and now it’s going viral on Pinterest in mini form! These Mini Tres Leches Cakes are light, fluffy sponge cakes soaked in three types of milk, topped with whipped cream, and served in perfectly portioned cups or ramekins. They’re rich but refreshing, making them the ultimate dessert for parties, family gatherings, or simply indulging at home. If you love traditional Tres Leches but want something easier to serve and irresistibly cute, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
For the sponge cakes:
- 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 1 cup (200 g) sugar, divided
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the milk soak:
- 1 can (12 oz / 354 ml) evaporated milk
- 1 can (14 oz / 396 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
For topping:
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Cinnamon or fruit (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the sponge cakes: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or mini cake molds. In a bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
- Whip the eggs: In another bowl, beat egg yolks with ¾ cup sugar until pale and fluffy. Mix in milk and vanilla. Separately, beat egg whites with remaining sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold yolk mixture and flour mixture into the whites until just combined.
- Bake: Divide batter evenly into molds. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely.
- Prepare the soak: Mix evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream in a large measuring cup.
- Soak the cakes: Pierce cooled cakes with a fork and spoon the milk mixture generously over each one. Let cakes soak in the fridge for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).
- Top and serve: Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until fluffy. Pipe or spread over the mini cakes. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh fruit before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use cupcake liners to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
- Chill overnight for the best soak and flavor.
- Try topping with strawberries, peaches, or toasted coconut for a tropical flair.
Final Thoughts
These Mini Tres Leches Cakes are the perfect marriage of tradition and trend. They’re rich, moist, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious while being convenient to serve in individual portions. Whether for Cinco de Mayo, birthdays, or casual summer nights, this mini version is guaranteed to wow your guests and rack up saves on Pinterest.