Name: Deliciously Creamy Ube Tres Leches Cake to Indulge In
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 480 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can be swapped with gluten-free flour.); 1 tblsp Baking Powder (Acts as a leavening agent.); 1 tsp Salt (Enhances flavor balance.); 6 large Eggs (Separate yolks and whites for a light cake.); 1 cup Whole Milk (Can substitute with plant-based milk.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Divided for yolks and whites.); 1 tsp Ube Extract (Infuses unique flavor.); 1 cup Ube Halaya (Ube Jam) (Can be substituted with sweet potato puree.); 1 can Evaporated Milk (Provides a creamy soak.); 1 can Condensed Milk (Sweetens and enriches the mixture.); 1 cup Coconut Milk (Adds creaminess and tropical flavor.); 2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream (Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.); 1 tblsp Granulated Sugar (for Topping) (Sweetens the whipped cream.)

The first whiff of vanilla and ube swirls in the air as I unveil my latest creation, the Ube Tres Leches Cake. Combining the traditional Latin dessert with a delightful Filipino twist, this cake elevates ordinary moments into something extraordinary. Imagine a moist sponge soaked in a dreamy blend of three milks, topped off with a fluffy ube whipped cream that beckons for a taste. Not only is this cake a feast for the eyes with its enchanting lavender hue, but it’s also a true crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet escape, this dessert promises to satisfy your cravings and impress your loved ones. Ready to dive into this blissful fusion of flavors? Let’s bake!

Why is Ube Tres Leches Cake Special?

Vibrant Color: This stunning lavender cake not only looks beautiful but also delights your taste buds with its unique flavor.

Cultural Fusion: Marrying classic Latin flavors with earthy ube creates a truly one-of-a-kind dessert experience.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, it’s guaranteed to impress guests and spark conversation!

Indulgent Yet Simple: Despite its rich taste, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, even for novice bakers.

Versatile Options: Experiment with toppings like fresh fruit or mango puree for added freshness and flavor, just like you would with my Strawberry Cheesecake Bars or Cookies Cream Cheesecake.

Let this Ube Tres Leches Cake elevate your next celebration or sweet craving into an unforgettable event!

Ube Tres Leches Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Base
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can be swapped with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a fluffy texture.
• Salt – Enhances flavor balance in the cake.
• Eggs – Adds richness and structure; separating yolks and whites helps create a light cake.
• Whole Milk – Contributes moisture and richness; can substitute with plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; divided into yolks and whites for an optimal texture.
• Ube Extract – Infuses the cake with essential ube flavor, creating a unique taste profile.
• Ube Halaya (Ube Jam) – Adds moisture and increases flavor depth; can be substituted with another sweet potato puree.

For the Milk Soak
• Evaporated Milk – Provides a creamy soak; can be replaced with coconut milk for a different flavor.
• Condensed Milk – Sweetens and enriches the milk mixture for soaking.
• Coconut Milk – Adds creaminess and a hint of tropical flavor, enhancing the overall richness of the cake.

For the Whipped Topping
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Serves as the base for the fluffy topping; use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Granulated Sugar (for Topping) – Sweetens the whipped cream for a delightful finish.

Dive into creating this Ube Tres Leches Cake, and let the fusion of flavors transform any moment into a celebration!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Tres Leches Cake

Step 1: Prepare Cake Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial for achieving a light and airy Ube Tres Leches Cake, as it helps to aerate the dry ingredients, ensuring an even texture in the finished product.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk the egg yolks with ¾ cup of sugar for about 5 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and pale. Next, incorporate the ube halaya and ube extract, followed by the whole milk. This vibrant mixture will infuse your cake with the delightful purple flavor of ube, creating a delicious blend that’s the heart of the Ube Tres Leches Cake.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the egg yolk mixture into the sifted dry ingredients, ensuring no lumps remain. Use a spatula for this to maintain a light texture. The batter will start to come together beautifully, which is a good sign you’re on your way to a perfect Ube Tres Leches Cake. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cake’s fluffiness.

Step 4: Beat Egg Whites
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with ¼ cup of sugar until stiff peaks form, which should take about 3-5 minutes. These peaks should stand upright when you lift the whisk. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter in two additions, ensuring you retain as much air as possible, which will contribute to the cake’s lightness.

Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the combined cake batter into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for an hour before proceeding to the next step, which ensures it’s ready to absorb the milk mixture.

Step 6: Make Milk Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, condensed milk, coconut milk, and additional ube extract until well combined. This creamy milk mixture will soak into the cake, adding richness and flavor to your Ube Tres Leches Cake. Set the mixture aside while the cake cools completely to room temperature.

Step 7: Soak Cake
Once the cake has cooled, take a skewer or fork and poke holes all over the surface. This will allow the milk mixture to soak in thoroughly. Gradually pour the milk mixture over the poked cake, ensuring even coverage. Let the cake sit for about 20 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 8: Prepare Whipped Topping
To make the whipped topping, beat together the heavy whipping cream, coconut milk, granulated sugar, and ube extract in a chilled mixing bowl until soft peaks form, which should take around 3-5 minutes. This fluffy topping will add a light and airy finish to your Ube Tres Leches Cake, so spread it generously over the chilled cake before serving.

Step 9: Chill Before Serving
For best results, refrigerate the frosted Ube Tres Leches Cake for an additional 2 hours to allow the whipped topping to set. This final chilling not only enhances the flavors but also makes for a firm and delicious topping that beautifully contrasts with the moist cake. Once set, slice and enjoy your special dessert!

Ube Tres Leches Cake Variations

Feel free to mix things up and create your own unique version of this delightful dessert!

Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk as a substitute for all dairy products for a lighter, vegan option.
Coconut Cream: Replace heavy whipping cream with coconut cream for a tropical twist. The flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the cake’s richness.
Flavor Fusion: Add a tablespoon of pandan extract into the milk mixture for an aromatic twist that’ll transport you to Southeast Asia.
Fruity Topping: Garnish your cake with fresh mango slices or chopped strawberries for a pop of color and natural sweetness, reminiscent of my refreshing Pistachio Carrot Cake.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed ube chips or toasted coconut flakes on top, adding texture and delightful crunch for an adventurous bite.
Spice It Up: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg in the milk soak can elevate the flavor profile, giving it a warm and comforting feel.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the whipped cream topping for an indulgent twist, creating a mouthwatering contrast.
Layered Delight: Transform it into a layered cake by dividing the batter into two or three rounds, alternating flavors like red velvet or chocolate, similar to my favorite Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes.

Feel inspired to let your creativity flow with these variations while keeping the heart of the Ube Tres Leches Cake intact!

What to Serve with Indulgent Ube Tres Leches Cake

Indulging in a slice of creamy purple bliss is just the beginning—let’s build a complete culinary experience around it!

Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of mango, pineapple, and berries adds brightness and complements the cake’s rich sweetness.
Coconut Sorbet: The smooth, chilled coconut sorbet offers a delightful contrast to the moist cake, creating a cooling sensation.
Mango Sticky Rice: This traditional dessert complements the ube’s earthy sweetness with a hint of tropical flavor—perfect for those who love fusion desserts.
Espresso or Coffee: A dark, rich coffee balances the cake’s sweetness, providing a cozy pairing that elevates the overall tasting experience.
Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of melted dark chocolate on the cake creates a luxurious finish, enhancing the ube flavor while adding a layer of richness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside the cake introduces a classic contrast, harmonizing beautifully with the ube and milk soaked cake.

Embrace these pairings that not only complement your Ube Tres Leches Cake but also create a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone coming back for more!

Make Ahead Options

These Ube Tres Leches Cakes are ideal for meal prep, making them a wonderful choice for busy home cooks! You can bake and cool the cake up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it tightly covered. Next, prepare the milk mixture and soak the cake, allowing it to chill overnight. This resting period is crucial as it melds the flavors beautifully. For the whipped topping, whip it fresh the day you plan to serve your Ube Tres Leches Cake. This ensures a light, airy finish. When ready to serve, simply spread the whipped topping generously over the chilled cake, and you’ll have a stunning dessert that’s just as delicious as when made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Ube Tres Leches Cake

Fridge: Store your Ube Tres Leches Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making each bite even more delicious!
Freezer: For longer storage, individually slice the cake and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Defrosting: To enjoy frozen cake, transfer it to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can leave it at room temperature for about 2 hours.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm treat, gently microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds, ensuring it stays moist and retains its delightful flavors.

Expert Tips for Ube Tres Leches Cake

Stiff Peaks: Ensure egg whites reach stiff peaks to incorporate air, making your Ube Tres Leches Cake light and fluffy. Overbeating will cause them to dry out.
Hole Poking: Poke holes deep enough into the cake for the milk mixture to fully soak in. This prevents any dry patches in your cake.
Chill Time: Chill the cake overnight for optimal flavor absorption and texture. It makes a world of difference in the richness of your Ube Tres Leches Cake.
Whipped Topping: Use cold equipment when whipping cream to achieve a stable topping. Serve immediately for the best experience, but it can be refrigerated for a couple of hours if needed.
Flavor Tweaks: Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors by adding mango puree to the topping for an exciting twist on your Ube Tres Leches Cake!

Ube Tres Leches Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of ube should I use for this cake?
I recommend using ube extract and ube halaya (ube jam) to achieve the best flavor. Look for the extract made from pure ube, which is often found in Asian grocery stores, and choose a high-quality ube halaya that’s smooth and creamy. Always check the ingredients for added preservatives and artificial flavors for an authentic taste.

How should I store Ube Tres Leches Cake?
Store your Ube Tres Leches Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The moisture from the milk mixture helps keep the cake tender, and in fact, the flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge. For longer storage, consider wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container to freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Ube Tres Leches Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake, slice it into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place these slices into an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag to protect against freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or leave it at room temperature for about 2 hours.

What if my cake is too dry after soaking?
If your cake turns out dry, it may be due to insufficient soaking with the milk mixture or not poking enough holes. To remedy this, you can brush some additional milk mixture over the top of the cake after poking extra holes, allowing it to absorb more moisture. Keep in mind that chilling it overnight enhances flavor absorption, so always try to give it enough time.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies?
You can certainly adapt this recipe for dairy allergies! Swap out the whole milk for plant-based milk, use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for the topping, and ensure to use dairy-free versions of evaporated and condensed milk—these substitutes will help maintain the creamy texture and flavor without dairy.

How do I know when my Ube Tres Leches Cake is done baking?
Your cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Usually, this takes about 30 minutes in the oven at 350°F (180°C). It’s essential to cool the cake properly and let it soak; allow it to cool in the pan for about an hour before soaking with the milk mixture. This cooling process creates the perfect texture for semi-sweet, indulgent dessert bliss!