Ube Tres Leches Cake Recipe

If you are looking to wow your friends and family with a dessert that is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious, the Ube Tres Leches Cake is your new best friend. This classic Filipino dessert beautifully marries the unique, vibrant flavor of purple yam with the luscious creaminess of a trio of milks, resulting in a sponge cake that is light, moist, and soaked in sweet milky goodness. The Ube Tres Leches Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or simply indulging in a comforting weeknight dessert, this cake promises to bring pure joy with each forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple but essential ingredients, each contributing to the signature taste, texture, and color of the Ube Tres Leches Cake. From the bright purple ube to the creamy blend of milks, every component works in harmony to create a cake that’s truly unforgettable.

• Ube (1 cup): Use fresh or ube extract for that iconic purple color and earthy sweetness.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides the perfect structure and softness for the cake.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cake and balances the flavors beautifully.
• Baking powder (2 tsp): Helps the cake rise to a tender, fluffy texture.
• Large eggs (4, room temperature): Essential for richness and binding the batter together.
• Whole milk (1 cup): Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
• Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): Combines sweetness and creaminess for the soaking milk mix.
• Evaporated milk (1 can, 12 oz): Enhances the creamy texture without extra sweetness.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Gives a luxurious richness to the tres leches soak.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Brings out the deep flavors and rounds out the sweetness.

How to Make Ube Tres Leches Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent. Meanwhile, blend your ube until smooth, then mix it with sugar and eggs, beating until the mixture becomes fluffy and airy. Gradually stir in the whole milk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and silky.

Step 2: Bake to Perfection

Pour the smooth, purple-hued batter into your prepared baking dish. Place it in the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a clean toothpick poked into the center comes out with just a few crumbs. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before moving on – this is key to letting the soak soak up perfectly.

Step 3: Soak with the Tres Leches Mixture

Use a fork to poke holes evenly across the surface of your cooled cake. This helps the soak absorb fully, turning every bite moist and irresistible. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream until combined. Pour this luscious milk blend slowly over the cake, letting it seep into all those little holes.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate the soaked cake for at least one hour, or even better overnight, to maximize the flavor and softness. The chilling time allows the Ube Tres Leches Cake to become wonderfully cool and moist, making it the perfect dessert for warm days or festive occasions.

How to Serve Ube Tres Leches Cake

Garnishes

The classic Ube Tres Leches Cake shines wonderfully on its own, but adding toppings can take it to the next level. Consider a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for extra texture and flavor contrast. Edible flowers or a light dusting of powdered sugar also add elegant finishing touches.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with light and fresh sides that can balance its rich sweetness. Fresh fruits like mango slices, strawberries, or kiwi provide a bright, tangy complement. For beverage pairings, a cup of black coffee or lightly brewed tea can cleanse the palate and enhance the milky flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is part of the fun! Serve the Ube Tres Leches Cake in clear glass trifle bowls to showcase its layers. Or cut it into neat squares and place on a decorative plate with a drizzle of ube syrup or caramel for a special occasion. Individual dessert glasses with layers of cake and whipped cream create an elegant and playful presentation for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Ube Tres Leches Cake covered tightly in the refrigerator to maintain its moist texture and fresh flavors. It typically stays delicious for 3 to 4 days, giving you plenty of time to savor every crumb without losing quality.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, you’ll want to do it carefully. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator. Keep in mind the texture may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be delightful.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not recommended. If you prefer it less chilled, simply take it out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving to let it come to room temperature naturally.

FAQs

What is Ube in Ube Tres Leches Cake?

Ube is a type of purple yam commonly used in Filipino desserts. It has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and gives the cake its striking purple color.

Can I use ube extract instead of fresh ube?

Yes! Ube extract is a great alternative if fresh ube is hard to find. It delivers the same distinctive flavor and color, just make sure to use the right amount for best results.

How long does the Ube Tres Leches Cake need to soak?

For the best soak, refrigerate the cake for at least one hour after pouring the milk mixture over it. Overnight soaking is even better to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to become ultra moist.

Is this cake gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free baking flour blends if needed, though the texture might vary slightly.

Can I make this cake in advance for a party?

Absolutely! Ube Tres Leches Cake actually tastes better the next day once it’s had time to soak and chill thoroughly. Just prepare it a day ahead and keep it refrigerated until serving.

Final Thoughts

The Ube Tres Leches Cake is truly a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its vibrant color, rich milky soak, and tender crumb make it an unforgettable treat that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. I hope you give this recipe a try and experience the joyful burst of flavors that only a homemade Ube Tres Leches Cake can deliver. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become your new favorite!