Name: Irresistible Ube Tres Leches Cake: A Creamy Dream Dessert!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 540 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend); 1.5 teaspoons Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Salt; 6 large Eggs (separated); 0.5 cups Whole Milk; 0.75 cups Granulated Sugar (Divided use for batter and topping); 1 teaspoon Ube Extract; 1 cup Ube Halaya (ube jam) (Homemade or store-bought); 1 cup Evaporated Milk; 1 cup Condensed Milk; 0.5 cups Coconut Milk (Can substitute with regular dairy milk); 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream; 0.25 cups Granulated Sugar (For topping)

As the floral aroma of ube wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel transported—a culinary adventure waiting to unfold. Today, I’m excited to share my version of Ube Tres Leches Cake, a delightful fusion of Filipino and Latin flavors that will elevate any gathering. This dish combines the rich, creamy profile of the beloved tres leches with the unique, earthy sweetness of ube, resulting in a stunningly beautiful dessert that’s both moist and airy. Not only is it a feast for the eyes with its lavender hue, but it also boasts quick prep, making it perfect for unexpected guests or special occasions. The best part? You’ll have an unforgettable sweet ending to any meal, and I promise your friends and family will be begging for seconds. So, are you ready to embark on this delicious journey with me?

Why is Ube Tres Leches Cake a Must-Try?

Exquisite Flavor Fusion: The match of Filipino ube and traditional tres leches brings a unique twist that will excite your taste buds.
Moist and Creamy Delight: Each bite delivers a creamy, moist experience, setting this cake apart from your average dessert.
Visually Stunning: Its vibrant lavender color adds a beautiful touch to any table, making it perfect for celebrations.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe is ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: It’s a guaranteed hit at gatherings, so prepare for compliments and requests for the recipe—just like with our Lemon Eclair Cake!
Versatile Treat: Enjoy it plain, or dress it up with fresh fruits, a scoop of ice cream, or even a latte on the side!

Ube Tres Leches Cake Ingredients

• Note: Gather these ingredients for a deliciously unique dessert!

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Powder – Ensures the cake rises properly and remains light.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
Eggs (separated) – Yolks add richness; whites create lightness when whipped.
Whole Milk – Adds moisture to the cake batter.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter; divided use helps with texture.
Ube Extract – Imparts the lovely, distinct ube flavor.
Ube Halaya (ube jam) – Adds sweetness and texture; use homemade or store-bought for convenience.

For the Milk Mixture

Evaporated Milk – A key component for creaminess in the milk soak.
Condensed Milk – Adds sweetness and richness; essential for the tres leches concept.
Coconut Milk – Introduces a delightful tropical flavor; can be substituted with regular dairy milk.

For the Topping

Heavy Whipping Cream – Forms a rich, creamy whipped topping to delight everyone.
Granulated Sugar (for topping) – Sweetens the whipped cream, balancing flavors.

Dive into the delightful combination of textures and tastes your loved ones will adore in this Ube Tres Leches Cake!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Tres Leches Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, sift together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, and a pinch of salt, ensuring a light texture. Set this dry mixture aside to create the foundation for your Ube Tres Leches Cake.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat 6 egg yolks with ¾ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light, about 3 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of ube halaya, 1 teaspoon of ube extract, and ½ cup of whole milk until everything is smoothly combined. This vibrant mix will add a distinct flavor and moisture to your cake.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the egg yolk mixture into the dry flour mixture with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—aim for a cohesive batter that preserves airiness. This step is crucial for that delightful texture in your Ube Tres Leches Cake, so treat it tenderly!

Step 4: Whip the Egg Whites
In a separate bowl, beat 6 egg whites until foamy, then gradually add ¼ cup of sugar until you achieve stiff peaks, taking about 4-5 minutes. The egg whites should hold their shape and look glossy. Gently incorporate this airy mixture into the batter, ensuring to maintain its fluffiness for a perfect rise.

Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should be lightly golden and spring back when touched. Allow it to cool for about 1 hour at room temperature.

Step 6: Prepare the Milk Mixture
While the cake cools, whisk together 1 cup of evaporated milk, 1 cup of condensed milk, ½ cup of coconut milk, and 1 teaspoon of ube extract in a mixing bowl. This dreamy mixture will soak into the cake, infusing it with a rich, creamy texture. Make sure everything is well combined for a consistent flavor in your Ube Tres Leches Cake.

Step 7: Soak the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, poke holes all over the surface using a skewer or fork, allowing the milk mixture to penetrate deeply. Gradually pour the milk soak over the cake evenly, letting it absorb all those tasty flavors. Allow the cake to sit for 20 minutes at room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 8 hours to achieve maximum moisture.

Step 8: Make the Ube Whipped Topping
In a large bowl, beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, ½ cup of coconut milk, and ¼ cup of sugar until soft peaks form, about 5 minutes. The cream should be thick and luscious, perfect for topping your decadent Ube Tres Leches Cake. This whipped topping adds an airy finish to the cake, balancing its richness.

Step 9: Assemble and Chill
Spread the whipped topping evenly over the soaked cake, smoothing it out to create a lovely layer. If desired, chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for an additional 2 hours before serving. This extra time allows the flavors to meld, giving you a truly irresistible Ube Tres Leches Cake ready to impress your family and friends.

Ube Tres Leches Cake Variations

Feel free to make this delightful Ube Tres Leches Cake your own with these fun twists and substitutions!

Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Flavor: Swap coconut milk for almond or cashew milk for a unique nutty twist that enhances the cake’s richness.
Fruity Surprise: Layer fresh mango or mixed berries between the cake and whipped topping for a burst of fruity freshness that perfectly balances the creaminess.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and evaporated milk to create a completely dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
Jam Varieties: Experiment with different flavored jams like matcha or sweet potato instead of ube halaya to give your cake a new character. Each option adds its own unique profile!
Tropical Boost: For a tropical kick, mix in crushed pineapples or shredded coconut into the milk mixture. This will bring a refreshing taste that complements the ube beautifully!
Chocolate Twist: Drizzle some dark chocolate ganache on top of the whipped topping for a decadent touch that pairs wonderfully with ube’s earthy flavor.
Heat Factor: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the milk mixture for a surprising spicy kick that tantalizes your taste buds!

Whether you choose to keep it classic or add a personal flair, just like the stunning Black Forest Cake or the refreshing Cheesecake Fruit Salad, each variation is sure to delight. Get creative and have fun with your Ube Tres Leches Cake!

How to Store and Freeze Ube Tres Leches Cake

Fridge: Store the Ube Tres Leches Cake wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will help maintain its delicious moisture and creamy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unassembled cake (before soaking and topping) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before proceeding with the soaking and topping.

Reheating: If refrigerated, enjoy the cake cold or allow it to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. The flavors are best when served fresh!

Leftover Topping: If you’ve made extra whipped topping, store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain its texture for serving later.

Make Ahead Options

These Ube Tres Leches Cake preparations are a lifesaver for busy cooks looking to simplify their meal planning! You can bake the cake and prepare the milk mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the cake to soak overnight in the refrigerator for maximum moisture. To maintain quality, store the cooled cake covered with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. You can also whip the ube topping up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to use. When it’s time to serve, spread the whipped topping on the cake and give it a quick chill for 2 hours if desired. This way, you’ll have a stunning, flavorful dessert ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort!

Expert Tips for Ube Tres Leches Cake

Egg Whites Matter: Ensure egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks—this is key for a light, airy cake that captures the milk mixture beautifully.
Maximize Soaking Time: Let the Ube Tres Leches Cake absorb the milk mixture for at least 8 hours. This is crucial for achieving that moist and creamy consistency everyone loves.
Poke Holes Wisely: Use a skewer or fork to poke even holes all over the cake. This ensures the milk mixture seeps in thoroughly, enhancing flavor and moisture.
Chill Before Serving: For optimal flavor melding and a firmer texture, refrigerate the assembled cake for a couple of hours before serving—your guests will notice the difference!
Whipped Topping Consistency: Beat the whipped cream just until soft peaks form; overbeating can lead to a grainy texture. A smooth topping elevates your Ube Tres Leches Cake beautifully!

What to Serve with Ube Tres Leches Cake

Elevate your dessert experience with these delightful pairings that enhance the unique flavors and creamy texture of this unforgettable cake.

Fresh Mango Slices: Sweet, juicy mangoes add a refreshing contrast, brightening each bite of the rich cake. The tropical flavor plays perfectly with the ube’s earthiness.
Coconut Sorbet: A light, creamy sorbet can cool down the palate and complement the tropical notes of the cake, creating a blissful harmony of flavors.
Espresso or Coffee: The boldness of espresso balances the sweetness of the Ube Tres Leches Cake while warming up the overall experience, making for a classic pairing.
Whipped Cream with Berries: Creamy whipped cream topped with fresh berries not only looks stunning but also adds a delightful tang that cuts through the richness of the cake.
Pineapple Coconut Salad: A light salad with pineapple and shredded coconut adds a bright, tropical flair. Its acidity enhances the flavors and creates a refreshing contrast.
Chai Spiced Tea: The warm spices from chai harmonize beautifully with the cake’s sweetness, creating a cozy and inviting dessert experience.
Chocolate Mousse: For those chocolate lovers, a velvety chocolate mousse serves as a decadent counterpoint to the lightness of the cake, making for an indulgent dessert duo.

Ube Tres Leches Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of ube should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using ube extract for a consistent flavor and vibrant color. If you have access to fresh ube, feel free to cook and mash it; just note the flavor may differ slightly and will add texture.

How should I store my Ube Tres Leches Cake?
Store the cake wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and delicious moisture.

Can I freeze Ube Tres Leches Cake?
Absolutely! For maximum freshness, freeze the unassembled cake—before soaking and topping—in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before proceeding with the soaking and topping steps.

What if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
If your cake doesn’t rise well, it might be due to old baking powder or overmixing the batter. Make sure to use fresh baking powder and mix just until combined, preserving air for a fluffy texture.

Is this cake safe for individuals with allergies?
The Ube Tres Leches Cake contains common allergens, including eggs, dairy, and gluten from the flour. For those with gluten sensitivities, consider substituting gluten-free flour. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.

How can I achieve a firmer topping for my cake?
To create a firmer topping, chill the assembled cake for an additional 2 hours before serving. This extra chilling time helps the whipped cream set, ensuring a beautiful texture that pairs perfectly with the moist cake.