As I stood in my kitchen, the vibrant purple hue of ube quietly beckoning from the pantry, I couldn’t resist the urge to create something special. Enter the Ube Tres Leches Cake—a delightful twist on the beloved classic that has been gracing celebrations around the world. This visually stunning dessert not only boasts the rich taste of ube, but it’s also incredibly moist, thanks to its decadent milk soak. Perfect for both festive occasions and cozy nights in, it’s a comforting treat that’s surprisingly easy to whip up. What’s more, you can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully and leaving you with a stress-free dessert option. Are you ready to uncover the magic of this Filipino-inspired cake? Let’s dive in!
Why is Ube Tres Leches Cake a Must-Try?
Visually Stunning: The vibrant ube color makes this cake a feast for the eyes, perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.
Incredible Moisture: Thanks to the signature tres leches soak, each bite is infused with rich, creamy goodness that melts in your mouth.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers will find joy in creating this delightful dessert.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it a day in advance to enhance flavors, ensuring you enjoy stress-free entertaining.
Versatile Flavors: Pair it with fruity toppings or serve alongside your favorite beverages for the ultimate dessert experience! Check out Breakfast Pancake Poppers for another fun treat you can easily whip up alongside.
Ube Tres Leches Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; no substitutes; integral for a fluffy cake.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; use kosher salt for optimal results.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens both cake and meringue; can be reduced for less sweetness.
- Large Egg Yolks – Adds richness and moisture; must separate from whites carefully.
- Whole Milk – Contributes moisture; can substitute with non-dairy milk for a vegan option (beware of texture changes).
- Melted Butter – Adds fat for flavor and tenderness; can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; use pure vanilla for best results.
- Ube Halaya – Imparts the signature ube flavor and color; can use ube extract as an alternative (adjust quantity to taste).
- Egg Whites – Whipped to create airy structure; ensure tools are clean and free of fat for optimal results.
For Soaking
- Evaporated Milk – Provides creamy texture and sweetness; essential for the tres leches effect.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds rich sweetness; no substitutions suggested to maintain moisture blend.
- Coconut Milk – Completes the soaking triad; needed for that unique flavor and creaminess.
For Topping
- Heavy Cream – Used for whipped topping; can substitute with coconut cream for a non-dairy option.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens whipped topping; necessary for stability in whipped cream.
- Ube Extract (optional) – For color in whipped cream; adds a visually appealing touch.
For Garnishing
- Dried Lavender, Ube Crumbs, Mint Leaves – Extra for decoration; choose according to your preference.
Feel free to gather these ingredients and start crafting your own Ube Tres Leches Cake that will surely be the talk of the table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Tres Leches Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring that the paper extends over the sides for easy removal. This preparation sets the stage for a perfectly baked Ube Tres Leches Cake that won’t stick.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. This step ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents for a light, fluffy cake. Set aside the bowl as you move on to the wet ingredients for the Ube Tres Leches Cake.
Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the egg yolks and half of the granulated sugar. Beat these together using a mixer until the mixture turns pale and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Next, incorporate the whole milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and ube halaya, mixing until the batter is smooth and well-blended.
Step 4: Whip the Egg Whites
In a clean, dry mixing bowl, begin whipping the egg whites using a mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar, continuing to whip until you reach stiff peaks that stand tall when the beaters are lifted. This step is crucial for achieving the airy texture of the Ube Tres Leches Cake.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture, being careful not to deflate the foam. Once incorporated, gradually add the dry ingredients, folding until just combined. The batter should remain light and airy, ready to be poured into the prepared baking pan for baking.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As the cake bakes, enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen—this is a sign of a delicious Ube Tres Leches Cake to come.
Step 7: Soak the Cake
Once the cake is out of the oven, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Using a skewer or toothpick, poke holes all over the cake. In a separate bowl, mix together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and coconut milk, then pour this mixture generously over the warm cake, allowing it to soak up the goodness.
Step 8: Cool and Set
Let the cake cool completely in the pan. As it cools, the soaked milk mixture will work its magic, infusing flavor and moisture into every bite of your Ube Tres Leches Cake. This chilling process also helps to firm up the cake structure, making it easier to slice when ready to serve.
Step 9: Whip the Cream
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This whipped topping will create a luscious layer on your cake. Be patient, and take care not to over-whip, as you want a smooth texture that beautifully complements the Ube Tres Leches Cake.
Step 10: Decorate and Serve
Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the cooled cake, creating a lovely finish. If desired, add a few drops of ube extract to the cream for added color. Finally, garnish your cake with optional decorative elements like dried lavender or ube crumbs, and it’s ready to be served and enjoyed by all!
Make Ahead Options
These Ube Tres Leches Cakes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and let it cool, then poke holes in it and soak with the milk mixture. After soaking, it’s best to cover the cake tightly and refrigerate it to maintain moisture and flavor. You can whip the cream and frost the cake just before serving to ensure it remains light and fluffy. This easy prep gives you stress-free entertaining with a show-stopping dessert that tastes just as delicious a day later!
Ube Tres Leches Cake Variations
Feel free to play with flavors and textures as you create your own version of this delightful cake!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with any non-dairy milk. Coconut or almond milk works wonderfully, giving it a unique twist.
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Fruity Addition: Add a layer of fresh fruit like strawberries or mango chunks for a burst of flavor between cake layers.
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Nutty Twist: Incorporate finely chopped nuts such as pistachios or macadamia nuts into the batter. They add a delightful crunch and richness.
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Chocolate Infusion: Mix cocoa powder into the batter for a delicious chocolate ube cake, creating a decadent combination that’s sure to impress.
With these variations, you can really personalize your Ube Tres Leches Cake. If you’re looking for quick breakfast ideas, check out our recipe for Breakfast Pancake Poppers for another delightful treat.
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Extra Sweetness: Drizzle a layer of caramel sauce or chocolate ganache over the whipped cream topping. This elevates it to a new level of indulgence.
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Spice It Up: Add a hint of spice by incorporating cinnamon or nutmeg into the flour mixture. This adds warmth and complexity to the flavors.
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Ube Crumb Topping: Create a crumble topping using ube crumbs mixed with butter. Sprinkle it over the cream for an exciting texture contrast!
Embrace the creative process and make this Ube Tres Leches Cake your own, showcasing your personal touch!
What to Serve with Ube Tres Leches Cake
Indulge in a sweeter experience by pairing your cake with complementary flavors and fresh ingredients.
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Tropical Fruits: A vibrant medley of mangoes, kiwi, and pineapple adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy cake. Their tartness brightens each bite.
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Coffee or Espresso: Nothing enhances this dessert’s lusciousness like a rich cup of coffee or espresso, balancing the sweetness with its deep, roasted flavor.
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Coconut Sorbet: This light and refreshing dessert pairs beautifully, echoing the coconut milk soak of the cake while providing a cool, creamy texture.
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Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkling toasted coconut on top adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the milky softness of the Ube Tres Leches Cake.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A silky chocolate ganache creates a delightful contrast, adding a touch of richness that elevates the dessert experience. The chocolate pairs surprisingly well with the ube’s earthiness.
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Mint Sprigs: Fresh mint not only enhances presentation but also adds a refreshing hint that enlivens your palate and balances the sweetness of the cake.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a delectable dessert spread that celebrates every bite of your Ube Tres Leches Cake!
How to Store and Freeze Ube Tres Leches Cake
Fridge: Store any leftover Ube Tres Leches Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor while keeping it fresh.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the cake a day in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate, allowing the milk soak to deepen the flavor.
Freezer: Freeze leftover slices of the Ube Tres Leches Cake in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container for best results.
Reheating: Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving. For a comforting touch, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Expert Tips for Perfect Ube Tres Leches Cake
Egg Whites Matter: Ensure that your egg whites are whipped to stiff peaks. Under-whipping can lead to a denser cake, while over-whipping can cause a grainy texture.
Folding Technique: Be gentle when folding in egg whites with the wet and dry ingredients. Over-mixing can deflate the batter, compromising the light, airy nature of the cake.
Hole Poking is Key: Don’t skip the step of poking holes after baking; this allows the milk mixture to soak deeply into the cake, enhancing the overall flavor and moisture of your Ube Tres Leches Cake.
Chill Time: Allow your cake to cool completely before serving. Chilling enhances the flavor and texture, giving the cake time to fully absorb the milk soak and improve its taste.
Decorate with Care: Use fresh garnishes to enhance presentation, but keep it simple to highlight the beautiful purple hue of the ube. Avoid overpowering the aesthetic with too many decorations!
Ube Tres Leches Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of ube should I use for Ube Tres Leches Cake?
For this recipe, I recommend using ube halaya, a sweet purple yam jam that’s packed with flavor and the rich hue characteristic of ube desserts. If you can’t find ube halaya, you may opt for ube extract, adjusting the quantity to match your taste; usually, 1 teaspoon is a good start to achieve that distinct flavor without overpowering the cake.
How should I store leftover Ube Tres Leches Cake?
Absolutely! Store any remaining Ube Tres Leches Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer freshness, ensure the cake is tightly covered to keep its moisture and flavor intact—this also prevents the cake from absorbing any other odors in the fridge.
Can I freeze Ube Tres Leches Cake?
Yes, you can freeze it! To do so, slice the cake into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped slices in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
What if my cake doesn’t soak well?
No worries at all! If your cake doesn’t absorb the milk mixture as well as it should, it could be due to not poking enough holes after baking. Be sure to thoroughly poke holes all over the top while it’s still warm—this will allow the soaking mixture to penetrate deeper. If the cake still seems dry, consider making extra soaking liquid and pouring it over the top before refrigerating.
Is Ube Tres Leches Cake suitable for vegans or those with dietary restrictions?
Certainly! You can modify the Ube Tres Leches Cake to be vegan-friendly. Substitute the egg yolks and whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) and use non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk. For the whipped topping, coconut cream is a great option. Just be mindful that these changes may slightly alter the texture, but it will still be delicious!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Definitely! This cake is actually even better when made a day in advance. It allows the flavors to meld and deepens its sweetness. Just make sure to cover it tightly in the refrigerator post-soaking to keep it fresh for serving!
Irresistible Ube Tres Leches Cake for Your Next Celebration
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- In a large bowl, beat egg yolks with half of the granulated sugar until pale and creamy; add whole milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and ube halaya.
- In a clean bowl, whip egg whites until soft peaks form, then add remaining sugar and whip to stiff peaks.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture, then gradually add the dry ingredients.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cake to cool for 10 minutes; poke holes in the cake and mix together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and coconut milk, pouring over the cake.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream over the top, optionally adding ube extract for color and garnishing with dried lavender or ube crumbs.
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