Easy Tres Leches Cake With Box Mix

This tres leches cake is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. The sponge turns out light and airy, then soaks up the sweet milk mixture without becoming soggy or heavy.

That balance is what makes this cake so special, and it’s the reason I always come back to it.

Over time, I’ve tested many ways of making Tres Leches, and using a box cake mix has proven to be the most reliable for creating that soft base every time.

It gives consistency, keeps the texture right, and allows the three milks to blend into the cake beautifully.

The whipped cream topping and fresh fruit make it just as elegant for celebrations as it is satisfying for everyday sharing.

I’ve served this cake at gatherings more times than I can count, and it always gets the same reaction—empty plates and requests for the recipe.

If you’re after a dessert that looks impressive, tastes indulgent, and delivers the perfect creamy bite, this one will never disappoint.

Table of Contents

Tres Leches Cake Recipe With Box Cake

Ingredients

For The Cake

1 box yellow or white cake mix
1 cup whole milk (for cake batter, follow box instructions if it requires water)
3 large eggs (as directed on the box)
1/3 cup vegetable oil (or as instructed on the box)

For The Milk Mixture

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 cup whole milk or heavy cream

For The Topping

2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fresh strawberries or fruit of choice for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the box cake batter according to the package instructions, but use whole milk instead of water if the box calls for water. This makes the cake richer and softer.
Pour the batter into the baking dish and bake for about 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool for at least 20 minutes after baking. Once cooled, use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the cake. The holes help the milk mixture soak in evenly.
In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk (or cream) until smooth.
Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake, making sure to cover the edges and center. The cake will absorb the liquid and become moist. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors fully soak in.
For the topping, whip the chilled heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake.
Garnish with sliced strawberries or your favorite fruit just before serving.

What Makes Tres Leches Cake Different From Other Cakes?

Tres leches cake is unique because of the way it absorbs a mixture of three different milks.

Unlike regular cakes that are eaten plain or frosted, this cake is soaked in milk, which gives it a moist and creamy texture all the way through.

The sponge base stays light but takes in all the flavor, creating a cake that feels rich without being heavy.

Can I Make Tres Leches Cake With A Box Cake Mix?

Yes, and it actually works beautifully. A box cake mix creates a sponge that is airy and consistent, which is exactly what you need for soaking the milk mixture.

When you pour the three milks over the cooled cake, the sponge absorbs it evenly and still holds its structure. This means the cake turns out soft, creamy, and stable every single time.

Which Box Cake Flavor Works Best?

Choosing the right box cake mix can make a difference in the final flavor.

Yellow cake mix: Gives a soft buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet milk mixture.
White cake mix: Creates a lighter base and lets the creaminess of the milk shine.
Vanilla cake mix: Works well for those who like a stronger vanilla note in their desserts.

Each of these options will give you the right texture, so you can pick whichever flavor you prefer.

How Long Should Tres Leches Cake Soak?

For the milk to fully blend into the cake, patience is important. After pouring the milk mixture, cover the cake and let it rest in the fridge.

At least 4 hours: The cake will be soft and well-soaked.
Overnight: This is ideal, as the flavors deepen and the texture becomes even more tender.

The longer the soak, the better the final taste and texture.

How Do I Keep Tres Leches Cake From Getting Soggy?

If the cake turns too mushy, it can spoil the experience. Here’s how you avoid that:

Bake until fully done: A slightly undercooked cake will collapse when soaked.
Poke evenly: Use a fork or skewer to make holes across the entire cake so the milk absorbs gradually.
Refrigerate after soaking: Keeping it chilled allows the cake to firm up while still being moist.

Following these steps ensures the cake absorbs perfectly without falling apart.

Can I Make Tres Leches Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, this cake actually tastes better when made in advance. Since it needs time to soak, preparing it a day early gives the best results.

You can bake the sponge, soak it with the milk mixture, and let it rest in the fridge overnight.

Add the whipped cream topping and garnish with fruit on the day of serving so it looks fresh and appetizing.

What Fruits Go Best With Tres Leches Cake?

Fresh fruit adds color and freshness to the creamy cake. A few options are especially popular:

Strawberries: Their slight tartness balances the sweet milk.
Raspberries or blueberries: Add brightness and a pop of color.
Mango slices: Give a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the cream.
Kiwi or pineapple: Add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.

You can serve the cake plain, but fruit toppings always make it more inviting.

How Should I Store Tres Leches Cake?

Because it contains milk and cream, this cake must be kept cold.

Refrigerator storage: Cover the cake tightly and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Serving tip: Always serve it chilled, as the texture and flavor are best cold.
Avoid room temperature: Leaving it outside for long periods can spoil the milk mixture.

If you want to prepare it in advance, bake and soak the cake, refrigerate it overnight, and then add whipped cream just before serving.

Can Tres Leches Cake Be Frozen?

Freezing isn’t the best choice for this cake because the milk mixture can separate when thawed. However, there are two safe options:

Freeze only the sponge: Bake the box cake base, let it cool, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and soak with milk when ready.
Avoid freezing after soaking: Once the milks are added, the texture will not hold well in the freezer.

This way, you can still save time and prepare ahead without losing quality.