Name: Ube Tres Leches Cake That Will WOW Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1505 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Consider using gluten-free flour if necessary.); 1.5 teaspoons Baking Powder (Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Essential for a well-rounded taste.); 5 Eggs (yolks and whites separated) (Consider flax eggs as a vegan alternative.); 0.5 cup Whole Milk (Can swap with almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option.); 0.33 cup Granulated Sugar (for yolks) (Sweetens and aids aeration.); 0.25 cup Granulated Sugar (for whites) (Coconut sugar offers a natural sweetness.); 2 teaspoons Ube Extract (Imparts distinctive flavor of purple yam.); 0.25 cup Ube Halaya (Adds sweetness and texture.); 1.5 cups Evaporated Milk (Look for dairy-free options if needed.); 1 cup Condensed Milk (Can find non-dairy versions.); 0.33 cup Coconut Milk (Alternatives like oat milk can be used.); 1.5 cups Heavy Whipping Cream (Whipped coconut cream works for vegan diets.); 0.5 cup Coconut Milk (Ensure it's well-chilled for best whipping results.); 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (Adjust according to your sweetness preference.); 2 teaspoons Ube Extract (Enhances ube flavor in the whipped cream.)

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The enticing aroma of fresh-baked cake fills the air, but today, it’s not just any cake—it’s a showstopping Ube Tres Leches Cake that’s about to steal the spotlight at your next gathering. This vibrant dessert seamlessly combines the rich traditions of both Filipino and Latin American cuisines, infusing the classic tres leches with the sweet, nutty flavor of ube, also known as purple yam. Offering a fluffy texture and an irresistible creaminess, this cake is not only a visual delight with its stunning hue, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion—whether a festive potluck or a cozy family dinner. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet impressive dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds. What could be more inviting than that?

Why Will You Love Ube Tres Leches Cake?

Vibrant Color: This cake’s lively purple hue makes it an eye-catching addition to any dessert table.

Unique Flavor: The delightful sweetness of ube provides a nutty twist, elevating the classic tres leches experience into something truly special.

Creamy Indulgence: Drenched in a luxurious trio of milks, each bite is a melt-in-your-mouth moment, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.

Easy to Make: Don’t shy away from fancy desserts—this simple recipe blends convenience with elegance, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for a party or a family gathering, the Ube Tres Leches Cake is sure to impress and leave everyone wanting more, just like our Moist Strawberry Shortcake or Oreo Cake Pops.

Versatile Variations: Mix it up by adding fruit or adjusting flavors; you can even match the base cake to suit your taste, ensuring it’s perfect for any occasion!

Ube Tres Leches Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; consider using gluten-free flour if necessary.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise and become fluffy; no direct substitutes but baking soda can work with added acid.
• Salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness; essential for a well-rounded taste.
• Eggs (5, yolks and whites separated) – Contribute to the structure and stability; flax eggs can be a vegan alternative.
• Whole Milk – Adds moisture and richness; swap for almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar (⅓ cup for yolks, ¼ cup for whites) – Sweetens and aids aeration; coconut sugar offers a natural sweetness.
• Ube Extract – Imparts the distinctive flavor of purple yam; you can use matcha or vanilla for a different twist.
• Ube Halaya (¼ cup) – Adds sweetness and texture; can be replaced with other fruit jams for variation.

For the Milk Mixture
• Evaporated Milk (1½ cups) – Creates a creamy base for soaking; look for dairy-free options if needed.
• Condensed Milk (1 cup) – Provides sweetness and extra creaminess; can also find non-dairy versions.
• Coconut Milk (⅓ cup) – Enhances the tropical flavor; alternatives like oat milk can be used as substitutes.

For the Topping
• Heavy Whipping Cream (1½ cups) – Creates a luscious topping; whipped coconut cream works for vegan diets.
• Coconut Milk (½ cup) – Adds a lovely flavor to the topping; make sure it’s well-chilled for best whipping results.
• Granulated Sugar (2 tbsp) – Sweetens the topping; adjust according to your sweetness preference.
• Ube Extract (2 tsp) – Enhances the ube flavor in the whipped cream; highly recommended for consistency.

Get ready to create a taste sensation with this Ube Tres Leches Cake that will wow your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Tres Leches Cake

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350℉ (180℃). While it heats, generously butter a 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring that the entire surface is covered to prevent sticking. This will provide the perfect foundation for your Ube Tres Leches Cake, allowing it to rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This important step aerates the flour and eliminates any clumps, contributing to the lightness of your cake. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Beat Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, beat 5 egg yolks with ⅓ cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is pale and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, gently incorporate ¼ cup of ube halaya, 2 teaspoons of ube extract, and ½ cup of whole milk until everything is well blended. The combination of flavors will enrich your cake.

Step 4: Fold Mixtures
Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients by pouring the egg yolk mixture into the bowl with the sifted flour. Carefully fold them together using a spatula until just combined to maintain the light texture. In another bowl, beat the 5 egg whites until stiff peaks form, then carefully fold them into the batter, ensuring not to over-mix.

Step 5: Bake
Pour the prepared batter into your buttered baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 1 hour, which helps to set the structure before adding the milk soak.

Step 6: Make Milk Mixture
While the cake cools, prepare the tres leches mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1½ cups of evaporated milk, 1 cup of condensed milk, ⅓ cup of coconut milk, and 2 teaspoons of ube extract. Whisk together until smooth, creating a creamy soak that will infuse your Ube Tres Leches Cake with flavor and moisture.

Step 7: Soak Cake
Poke holes all over the cooled cake using a fork or skewer, allowing the soak to penetrate deeply. Gradually pour the milk mixture over the cake, ensuring every part is soaked. Let it sit for about 20 minutes to absorb the liquid, then refrigerate the cake overnight for the best flavor and texture development.

Step 8: Whip Topping
The following day, prepare the creamy topping by beating 1½ cups of heavy whipping cream, ½ cup of coconut milk, and 2 tablespoons of sugar in a chilled mixing bowl. Whip until soft peaks form; this step usually takes around 3-5 minutes. For an extra burst of flavor, gently fold in 2 teaspoons of ube extract.

Step 9: Serve
Spread the whipped topping generously over the soaked Ube Tres Leches Cake, smoothing it out for a beautiful finish. For a delightful experience, refrigerate for an additional 2 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Slice and enjoy this creamy, flavorful dessert that’s perfect for impressing family and friends!

Expert Tips for Ube Tres Leches Cake

Chill Overnight: Allow the cake to soak in the fridge overnight for optimal flavor and texture, ensuring every bite is deliciously moist.
Poke Holes Deeply: Make sure to poke sufficient holes in the cake for the milk mixture to absorb well, preventing dryness or sogginess.
Fresh Topping: For the best texture, consider adding the whipped topping just before serving to maintain its lightness and fluffiness.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding different fruit jams instead of ube halaya, but this Ube Tres Leches Cake truly shines with its signature flavor.
Check Baking Time: Be attentive to your oven’s specific temperature, as baking times may vary; use a toothpick to test for doneness.
Decorate Creatively: Finish with fresh fruits or edible flowers on top for a stunning presentation that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate!

Make Ahead Options

These Ube Tres Leches Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance, just follow the baking instructions and allow it to cool completely before soaking. Once cooled, poke your holes and pour the milk mixture over the cake, then refrigerate overnight for maximum flavor infusion. For the best quality, add the whipped topping just a couple of hours before serving to maintain its light, airy texture. This way, you’ll have an incredible dessert ready to impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort!

Storage Tips for Ube Tres Leches Cake

Fridge: Store your Ube Tres Leches Cake in an airtight container for up to 7 days to preserve its moisture and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the cake (without the whipped topping) for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil for best results.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen cake, thaw it at room temperature for about 2–3 hours before serving. Add the whipped topping just before serving for the best texture.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, lightly heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but be careful to not dry it out; serve immediately for optimal taste.

Ube Tres Leches Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize your Ube Tres Leches Cake with these fun and tasty twists to make it truly your own!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to keep it delightful for everyone at the table.
Vegan: Swap eggs for flax eggs and use coconut or almond milk instead of whole milk for a plant-based version. You’ll still enjoy that creamy texture without any animal products!
Fruit-Flavored: Experiment by replacing ube halaya with mango, jackfruit, or even berry jams to create a fruity delight. Imagine the burst of flavor from a tropical twist on every bite!
Chocolate Delight: Stir in some cocoa powder in the cake batter alongside the flour for a rich chocolatey Ube Tres Leches Cake. It’s a delightful dessert that will have chocolate lovers swooning!
Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts or granola on top of the whipped cream for an extra layer of crunch. This fun texture contrast will keep each slice exciting!
Spicy Kick: For a hint of heat, mix a pinch of cayenne or chili powder into the whipped topping. It’s a bold addition that surprisingly complements the sweetness!
Seasonal Special: Incorporate pumpkin puree or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg during the fall to give it a seasonal spin, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Alternative Milks: Use oat milk or hemp milk instead of coconut milk in the milk mixture to create a unique flavor profile while staying dairy-free. It’s all about finding your perfect match!

If you’re in the mood for more delightful desserts, consider trying out our Black Velvet Cake or the refreshing Moist Strawberry Shortcake to keep your sweet tooth satisfied!

What to Serve with Ube Tres Leches Cake?

When planning to serve your Ube Tres Leches Cake, consider delightful accompaniments that enhance its charm and flavor.

Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy strawberries or blueberries add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake, making each bite refreshing.
Coconut Sorbet: This light and creamy sorbet echoes the tropical notes in the cake, offering a cool and satisfying palate cleanser.
Whipped Coconut Cream: For added indulgence, a dollop of whipped coconut cream complements the cake’s creaminess while keeping it dairy-free.
Espresso or Coffee: A rich, bold coffee balances the sweetness of the cake wonderfully, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A mixture of diced mango, pineapple, and kiwi brings a burst of color and natural sweetness, lightening the meal beautifully.

These pairings will create a memorable dessert spread, ensuring that the vibrant Ube Tres Leches Cake shines even brighter among its companions!

Ube Tres Leches Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of ube should I use for the cake?
I recommend using ube extract and ube halaya (purple yam jam) for the best flavor. When buying ube halaya, look for a brand that has a vibrant purple color without any added preservatives; this ensures fresh sweetness and that beautiful purple hue in your cake.

How should I store the Ube Tres Leches Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Make sure it’s covered to prevent it from drying out and losing that luscious moisture that makes tres leches cake so special.

Can I freeze the Ube Tres Leches Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cake without the whipped topping for up to 3 months. First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with foil to protect from freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake at room temperature for about 2-3 hours before adding the topping.

What should I do if my cake is too dry after baking?
If you find your Ube Tres Leches Cake is drier than expected, next time ensure you’ve poked enough holes in it to absorb the milk mixture and allow it to soak for at least 20 minutes. Also, refrigerating it overnight helps improve moisture retention and flavor, so don’t skip that step!

Can I make the cake dairy-free?
Yes, you can! For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or soy milk, and use coconut or nut milks in place of evaporated and condensed milk. Lastly, whip up coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for the topping. This way, you won’t miss a beat on flavor!

Is this cake pet-friendly?
No, this cake is not suitable for pets, particularly due to ingredients like milk and sugar, which can be harmful to animals. Also, since it contains ube, which isn’t typically a known pet-friendly ingredient, it’s best to keep this delicious treat reserved for human enjoyment only.