Name: Ube Tres Leches Cake: A Creamy Delight for Every Celebration
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 540 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour for a lighter option.); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (Ensure it’s fresh for optimal fluffiness.); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Use kosher salt for a cleaner taste.); 6 large Eggs (separated yolks and whites) (Fresh eggs yield the best volume in egg whites.); 0.5 cups Whole Milk (Can substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.); 0.75 cups Granulated Sugar (Coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic index option.); 1 teaspoon Ube Extract (If unavailable, vanilla extract can be substituted.); 1 cup Ube Halaya (ube jam) (Store-bought or homemade versions are both fine.); 1 cup Evaporated Milk (Use unsweetened almond milk for a lighter alternative.); 1 cup Condensed Milk (For a dairy-free version, try coconut condensed milk.); 1 cup Coconut Milk (Can be swapped with whole milk if desired.); 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Coconut cream is a lighter substitute.); 0.25 cups Granulated Sugar (Adjust to taste when using flavored extracts.)

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As the vibrant hues of lavender danced on my plate, I couldn’t help but smile at the beauty of my Ube Tres Leches Cake. This delightful dessert is a scrumptious blend of Filipino and Latin American traditions, showcasing the earthy sweetness of ube, a purple yam that adds a stunning twist to the classic tres leches. Not only does this cake promise a drizzle of creamy goodness with its three-milk soak, but its appeal lies in the fact that it’s incredibly easy to whip up for any occasion, making it a perfect treat for busy home chefs. With each delicious bite, you’ll find yourself transported to warmer climes, where flavors intertwine and celebration is always on the menu. Curious about how this unique fusion dessert comes together? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Ube Tres Leches Cake Special?

Unique Fusion Flavor: This cake beautifully combines the beloved Latin tres leches with the earthy sweetness of ube, offering a delicious twist on tradition.
Vibrant Presentation: Its stunning lavender hue makes it a showstopper, perfect for delightful gatherings or celebrations.
Simple Steps: Even novice bakers can create this creamy masterpiece—it’s easy to follow, making it a great choice for busy home chefs!
Perfectly Moist: The three-milk soak ensures every bite is luxuriously moist and satisfying. Pair it with tropical fruits to elevate your dessert game, similar to how you might serve an Oreo Cheesecake Decadent.
Crowd-Pleaser: No one can resist a slice of this joyfully unique cake—watch your friends and family come back for seconds!

Ube Tres Leches Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a lighter option.
Baking Powder – Essential for rising; ensure it’s fresh for optimal fluffiness.
Salt – Enhances flavors; use kosher salt for a cleaner taste.
Eggs (separated yolks and whites) – Adds richness; fresh eggs yield the best volume in egg whites.
Whole Milk – Contributes moisture; can substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter; coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic index option.
Ube Extract – Infuses the cake with unique ube flavor; if unavailable, vanilla extract can be substituted, though flavors will differ.
Ube Halaya (ube jam) – Adds moisture and earthy sweetness; store-bought or homemade versions are both fine.

For the Milk Soak

Evaporated Milk – Creates a rich soak to infuse the cake; use unsweetened almond milk for a lighter alternative.
Condensed Milk – Provides sweetness and creaminess; for a dairy-free version, try coconut condensed milk.
Coconut Milk – Enhances creaminess with a tropical touch; can be swapped with whole milk if desired.

For the Topping

Heavy Whipping Cream – The base for your fluffy topping; coconut cream is a lighter substitute.
Granulated Sugar (for whipped topping) – Sweetens the topping; adjust to taste when using flavored extracts.

This Ube Tres Leches Cake will bring a delightful splash of color and flavor to your dessert table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ube Tres Leches Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) while you grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will ensure your Ube Tres Leches Cake slides out effortlessly after baking. Set the prepared dish aside and get ready for the next step!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This step aerates the flour and combines the leavening agents, promoting an even rise in your cake. Once done, set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Whip Egg Yolks
In a large mixing bowl, beat 6 egg yolks with ¾ cup of granulated sugar using a hand mixer on high speed until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale—about 3 minutes. Now, gently mix in ½ cup of ube halaya, 1 teaspoon of ube extract, and 1 cup of whole milk until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Carefully fold the wet egg yolk mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Use a spatula to combine them gently, ensuring you don’t overmix. The batter should be just combined without any visible flour—this will give your Ube Tres Leches Cake a lovely texture.

Step 5: Beat Egg Whites
In a separate clean bowl, beat 6 egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add in ¼ cup of granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks are reached—this will help give the cake its airy structure.

Step 6: Incorporate Egg Whites
Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cake batter in three additions. Start by adding a third to lighten the batter, and then gradually fold in the remaining egg whites. The mixture should remain light and fluffy, bringing together the flavors of the Ube Tres Leches Cake beautifully.

Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth it out evenly with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about an hour.

Step 8: Make the Milk Soak
While the cake is cooling, whisk together 1 cup of evaporated milk, 1 cup of condensed milk, and 1 cup of coconut milk in a mixing bowl until well combined. Add 1 teaspoon of ube extract for an extra flavor boost. This rich milk mixture will soak into the cake, enhancing its moistness.

Step 9: Soak the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface. This will allow the delicious milk soak to penetrate deeply. Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring it fills all the holes and saturates the layers. Let it sit for 20 minutes before refrigerating for at least 8 hours to achieve maximum flavor infusion.

Step 10: Prepare the Whipped Topping
When you’re ready to serve, whip 1 cup of heavy whipping cream with ¼ cup of coconut milk and 2 tablespoons of sugar until soft peaks form. This fluffy topping will beautifully crown your Ube Tres Leches Cake, adding an irresistible creamy layer.

Step 11: Assemble and Serve
Carefully spread the whipped topping over the soaked cake using a spatula for an even finish. If you prefer a firmer consistency, let the cake rest in the fridge for an additional 2 hours. Serve chilled and delight in the unique flavors and textures of your stunning Ube Tres Leches Cake!

How to Store and Freeze Ube Tres Leches Cake

Fridge: Keep your Ube Tres Leches Cake covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its moistness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. This way, you can savor a piece whenever you crave this delightful dessert!

Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. For a warm treat, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Make Ahead: Feel free to make your Ube Tres Leches Cake a day in advance; it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld!

Expert Tips for Ube Tres Leches Cake

• Separate Cleanly: Ensure you separate egg whites and yolks without any yolk contamination for maximum volume in egg whites.

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh baking powder for leavening to ensure your Ube Tres Leches Cake rises beautifully and yields a light texture.

• Milk Soak Perfection: Make sure to pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake and let it fully absorb for that perfect, moist finish.

• Chill for Flavor: For the best flavor, allow the cake to chill overnight in the refrigerator; the flavors meld beautifully and enhance the overall taste.

• Garnish Wisely: Consider topping with toasted coconut flakes or colorful sprinkles for added texture and a festive look at celebrations.

Make Ahead Options

These Ube Tres Leches Cake is perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without compromising on flavor! You can prepare the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the baking instructions and allow it to cool completely before poking holes and soaking it with the milk mixture. For optimal results, refrigerate the soaked cake for at least 8 hours, or even overnight, to enhance the flavors. When you’re ready to serve, whip the cream and top the cake—this way, you’ll enjoy a fresh, creamy dessert that’s just as delightful as when first made! By prepping in advance, you can focus on savoring moments with your loved ones instead of rushing in the kitchen.

What to Serve with Ube Tres Leches Cake

As the delightfully creamy and colorful Ube Tres Leches Cake graces your table, consider these perfect pairings to elevate your dessert experience.

Fresh Mango Slices: The sweet, juicy mango beautifully contrasts with the creaminess of the cake, adding a tropical flair that complements the ube’s earthy flavor.
Coconut Flan: For an extra touch of richness, serve slices of smooth coconut flan alongside. The flavors harmonize wonderfully, creating a decadent dessert duet.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of pineapple, kiwi, and berries brings brightness and balance to your meal, enhancing the cake’s vibrant hues while adding textural contrast.
Whipped Cream Berries: Top a plate of mixed strawberries and blueberries with a dollop of whipped cream. Their tartness provides a delightful counterpoint to the cake’s sweetness.
Iced Thai Tea: This aromatic beverage offers a fragrant and spicy kick that pairs beautifully, making each bite of cake even more delightful and refreshing.
Chilled Coconut Milk: Serve a glass of chilled coconut milk beside your cake to enhance the tropical flavor sensation; it’s soothing and complements the cake’s taste.

Indulging in these pairings will transform your dessert into a joyous feast, perfect for sharing with family and friends!

Ube Tres Leches Cake Variations

Make your Ube Tres Leches Cake even more delightful with these easy and fun variations!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk, evaporated milk, and condensed milk with almond milk and coconut condensed milk for a creamy, dairy-free version.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the cake batter for an extra layer of sweetness alongside the ube.
Textural Twist: Garnish with toasted coconut flakes for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the cake’s creaminess.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or macadamia nuts, into the batter for a delightful texture and flavor burst.
Enhanced Color: For more vivid hues, mix in purple food coloring to achieve a brighter lavender shade in your cake, perfect for special occasions.
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the whipped topping for a rich, decadent contrast to the ube’s earthiness.
Fruity Finish: Serve slices with a vibrant mango or passion fruit puree on the side; the sweetness will elevate the tropical experience, much like how you’d enjoy a slice of Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake.
Chill with Cream: Experiment with a coconut cream topping instead of whipped cream for a lighter, aromatic twist that complements the ube perfectly.

Ube Tres Leches Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of ube should I use for the cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use Ube Halaya (ube jam) made from fresh purple yams. If you can’t find it, a high-quality store-bought version will do just fine. Ube extract is also essential, as it enhances the cake’s distinctive flavor.

How long can I store the Ube Tres Leches Cake in the fridge?
You can store your Ube Tres Leches Cake covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just ensure it’s well-covered to keep it moist and flavorful. It actually benefits from being made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully!

Can I freeze Ube Tres Leches Cake?
Definitely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This ensures that each slice is well protected from freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.

What should I do if the cake is too dry?
If you find your Ube Tres Leches Cake is a bit dry, it may mean that it didn’t soak up enough of the milk mixture. Next time, ensure you poke ample holes all over the cake and allow the milk mixture to sit and absorb for a longer time—an extra 10-15 minutes can work wonders! Additionally, pouring some milk mixture over the top just before serving can give it a bit of a moisture boost if needed.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, indeed! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, you can easily substitute the whole milk, evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives, such as almond or coconut milk. This Ube Tres Leches Cake can still be deliciously creamy while keeping everyone happy!

Can I use a different flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best results. However, if you’re not restricted by gluten, sticking to all-purpose flour yields the best texture and flavor for this Ube Tres Leches Cake.