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Mango Tres Leches Cake Recipe

4.5 from 109 reviews

Mango Tres Leches is a tropical twist on the classic Latin American dessert featuring a moist vanilla sponge cake soaked in a rich blend of three milks and topped with mango-infused whipped cream and fresh mango pieces. This luscious, creamy cake offers a perfect balance of sweet and fruity flavors, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Vanilla Sponge Cake

  • 5 large eggs, separated, room temperature
  • 1 cup white granulated sugar, divided
  • 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup whole milk, room temperature
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Tres Leches Soaking Mixture

  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 12 oz evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Mango Whipped Cream Topping

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup mango puree (about 1 large mango), plus more for drizzling (optional)
  • Fresh mango, peeled and cut into small chunks

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease only the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray, avoiding the sides to allow proper cake rise.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside for later use.
  3. Beat Egg Yolks Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg yolks, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric hand mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes thick and pale yellow. Stir in the whole milk gently.
  4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gently fold the dry flour mixture into the egg yolk mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain batter lightness.
  5. Beat Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites on high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form for structure and volume.
  6. Fold Egg Whites into Batter: Carefully fold half of the beaten egg whites into the batter to lighten it, then gently fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined, taking care not to deflate the mixture.
  7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely while preparing the soaking mixture.
  8. Prepare Tres Leches Mixture: In a liquid measuring cup, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and 1/2 cup heavy cream until fully combined.
  9. Soak the Cake: Once the cake is cooled, poke holes all over the top using a fork. Slowly pour the tres leches milk mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak deeply. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
  10. Make Mango Whipped Cream: In a large bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the mango puree to infuse the whipped cream with tropical flavor.
  11. Assemble the Cake: Remove the soaked cake from the refrigerator. Using an offset spatula, spread the mango whipped cream evenly over the top of the cake.
  12. Garnish and Serve: Top the whipped cream layer with fresh mango chunks and drizzle with additional mango puree if desired. Slice and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert experience.

Notes

  • For best texture, ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature before beginning.
  • Do not overmix the batter once egg whites are folded in to keep the cake light and airy.
  • Allowing the cake to soak overnight enhances the flavor and moisture.
  • Use a ripe, sweet mango for the puree and garnish to maximize fruitiness.
  • You can substitute heavy whipping cream with a lighter cream, but texture might vary slightly.

Keywords: mango tres leches, tres leches cake, mango cake, Latin American dessert, vanilla sponge cake, soaked cake, tropical dessert