This Easy Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake! This traditional Latin American dessert features a moist sponge cake soaked in a trio of plant-based milks, creating a rich and creamy treat that everyone can enjoy. Perfect for celebrations or just a sweet indulgence, this dairy-free version ensures that no one misses out on this classic favorite!
With its light texture and luscious soaking liquid, this Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake is sure to impress. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Easy Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake features a fluffy sponge cake soaked in a mixture of coconut milk, almond milk, and soy milk, giving it a delightful creaminess. Topped with a light coconut whipped cream, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion!
Exciting Story: I first made this Easy Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake for a family gathering when one of my relatives needed a dairy-free option. I wanted to recreate the traditional flavors while ensuring everyone could enjoy it. As I whipped up the batter and prepared the plant-based milk mixture, my kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of vanilla and coconut.
When I served the cake, I was thrilled to see everyone’s reactions. The cake was incredibly moist, and the combination of flavors was delightful! Everyone loved it, and I was so happy to share a delicious dessert that everyone could enjoy. This cake has since become a staple at our family celebrations, proving that you don’t need dairy to enjoy a classic dessert!
Why This Easy Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake is a Must-Try
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of three plant-based milks creates a rich and creamy taste.
- Crowd-Pleasing: This cake is loved by both dairy-free and non-dairy-free eaters alike!
- Simple to Make: With easy steps, you can whip up this delightful dessert in no time!
How to Make Easy Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Make the Cake:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat together the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the almond milk, and mix until smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
Prepare the Tres Leches Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, almond milk, soy milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Once the cake has cooled, poke holes all over the surface using a fork or skewer. Slowly pour the tres leches mixture over the cake, ensuring that it soaks in evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Prepare the Topping:
In a mixing bowl, whip the chilled coconut cream and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Once the cake is soaked and ready to serve, spread the whipped coconut cream over the top. Garnish with fresh fruit if desired. Slice and enjoy your Easy Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake!
Tips For Easy Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake
- For a more intense coconut flavor, use coconut milk in both the cake and tres leches mixture.
- Allow the cake to soak overnight for the best texture and flavor.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Use gluten-free flour to make this cake gluten-free.
- Substitute different plant-based milks according to your preference.
Make a Healthier Version:
- Reduce the sugar in the tres leches mixture for a lighter option.
- Use unsweetened almond milk for less sugar content.
Closing: And there you have it! This Easy Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake is a creamy and delightful dessert that everyone can enjoy. Don’t forget to let us know how your cake turns out, and check out some of our other delicious recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, it can be made a day ahead and refrigerated until serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this cake?
It’s best served fresh, but you can freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.
What can I use instead of coconut milk?
You can use oat milk or any other dairy-free milk of your choice.
How do I know when the cake is done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I use a different topping?
Yes! A simple vegan whipped cream or frosting can also be used.
What’s the best way to serve this cake?
Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture!
Can I add flavors to the cake?
You can add a splash of almond extract or lemon zest for extra flavor.
How can I make the cake more chocolatey?
Add cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolate version!
What if my cake doesn’t soak well?
Ensure you poke enough holes in the cake to allow the liquid to soak in.
How can I achieve a thicker topping?
Chill the coconut cream for several hours before whipping to make it thicker.
Can I use fresh fruit in the filling?
Yes, fresh fruit can be added to the tres leches mixture for added flavor!
Easy Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake
Course: All Recipes, Cake, Dessert, Occasions, Weight watchers4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
- For the Cake:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs (or egg substitute)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup almond milk (or other dairy-free milk)
- For the Tres Leches Mixture:
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full-fat)
1 cup almond milk (or other dairy-free milk)
1 cup soy milk (or other dairy-free milk)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Topping:
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut cream, chilled (or whipped coconut topping)
2 tbsp powdered sugar
Fresh fruit (such as berries or sliced bananas, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Make the Cake:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat together the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the almond milk, and mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Tres Leches Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, almond milk, soy milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Once the cake has cooled, poke holes all over the surface using a fork or skewer. Slowly pour the tres leches mixture over the cake, ensuring that it soaks in evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a mixing bowl, whip the chilled coconut cream and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Once the cake is soaked and ready to serve, spread the whipped coconut cream over the top. Garnish with fresh fruit if desired. Slice and enjoy your Easy Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake!