Strawberries and cream are a classic combination that brings back memories of childhood treats, like lifesaver and creamsaver candies. This cake captures those flavors but elevates them to a new level of indulgence. By combining the richness of tres leches with the sweetness of strawberries, you get a dessert that’s both nostalgic and delightful.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 box of vanilla cake mix
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Homemade vanilla cake mix (optional, available on my website)
For the Tres Leches Mixture:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 cup half-and-half
For the Topping:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 pint fresh strawberries, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 13×9-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, milk, oil, eggs, and sour cream. If using a homemade vanilla cake mix, follow the same procedure.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 34 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Tres Leches Mixture:
- While the cake is baking, mash together the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar in a medium bowl using a potato masher or fork until well blended.
- Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the evaporated milk and half-and-half, mixing until fully combined.
- Assemble the Tres Leches Cake:
- While the cake is still warm, use a fork or a skewer to poke holes all over the surface. Make sure the holes are evenly distributed to allow the tres leches mixture to soak in properly.
- Slowly pour the strawberry and milk mixture over the entire cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes and covers the surface evenly.
- Allow the cake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least two hours to let the flavors meld and the cake to absorb the liquid.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:
- In a large mixing bowl, whip together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer. Beat until stiff peaks form, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Finish the Cake:
- Once the cake has completely cooled and absorbed the tres leches mixture, spread the whipped cream topping evenly over the surface.
- Sprinkle the chopped strawberries on top for a burst of fresh fruit flavor and a beautiful presentation.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Cut the cake into squares and serve chilled. The combination of the moist, milky cake with the fluffy whipped cream and fresh strawberries is sure to delight your taste buds.
Tips for Success:
- Homemade Vanilla Cake Mix: If you prefer a homemade touch, use the vanilla cake mix recipe available on my website. It adds a unique flavor and texture to the cake.
- Freshness: Ensure your strawberries are fresh and ripe for the best flavor. Overripe strawberries can become mushy, while underripe ones can be too tart.
- Poking Holes: Be generous with poking holes in the cake to allow the tres leches mixture to penetrate thoroughly. This ensures every bite is moist and flavorful.
- Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chilling time. Refrigerating the cake allows the flavors to meld and the liquid to fully absorb, resulting in a perfect texture.
Variations:
- Chocolate Twist: For a different flavor profile, try adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake and the whipped cream topping.
- Berry Mix: Mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries with the strawberries for a more complex fruit flavor.
- Coconut Flare: Substitute half of the half-and-half with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
This Strawberries and Cream Tres Leches Cake is a delightful and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It brings together the best of both worlds – the nostalgic flavors of childhood candies and the sophisticated indulgence of a classic tres leches cake. Serve it at your next gathering, and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite among your friends and family.
