A homemade tres leches cake is one of the absolute BEST desserts- a light and airy sponge cake soaked in a rich, sweet milk mixture, creating an ultra-delicious bite every time. But, somewhat unbelievably, it can get even better. This matcha tres leches cake puts a unique spin on a traditional Mexican dessert by infusing umami-rich matcha into both the sponge cake and the milk soak for a delicate balance of sweetness and depth. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth cake that is both satisfying and delicious. If you are a fan of tres leches cake and matcha, you simply must try this recipe. Let’s get to baking!
What is tres leches?
Tres leches translates to “three milks,” and a tres leches cake is just that—a sponge cake soaked in a sweet milk mixture made from three different types of milk (whole milk, condensed milk, and evaporated milk). It’s light, creamy, and rich without being too sweet. This matcha tres leches contains matcha powder in both the sponge cake and the milk mixture, giving it a rich umami taste and added depth.
A tres leches consists of three key components: a light and airy sponge cake, similar to angel food cake; a rich, sweet milk mixture that soaks into the cooled sponge cake; and a generous layer of fluffy whipped cream to top it all off.
Can you make it ahead?
One of the best things about baking a tres leches cake is that it’s easy to make ahead of time! You can make it 1-2 days in advance; keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Making it ahead can ensure that all the milk mixture is soaked up.
You can store the tres leches cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge and add a layer of whipped cream just before serving.
Ingredients:
Matcha Sponge Cake:
4 large eggs, separated
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup whole milk
2 tbsp matcha powder
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
Matcha Tres Leches:
¾ cup evaporated milk
¾ cup whole milk
¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp matcha powder
Whipped Cream:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp granulated sugar
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Line an 8X8” pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the sponge cake. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg yolks with half the sugar. Sift in flour, baking powder, matcha, and salt. Blend until smooth. Add milk and mix again.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites with remaining sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the yok mixture until well combined.
4. Pour sponge cake batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool to room temperature.
5. In a medium bowl, mix condensed milk and matcha powder. Stir in evaporated milk and whole milk. Mix until smooth.
6. Pierce cooled cake all over with a fork. Pour the milk mixture over the top of the cooled cake, reserving about ¾ cup for later.
7. Chill the cake in the fridge, allowing the milk mixture to soak in fully.
8. While cake is chilling, make the whipped cream. Whip cream and sugar in a chilled glass or metal bowl with an electric mixer until thick. Spread an even layer on top of the cake.
9. Dust each cake slice with matcha powder before serving. Serve chilled with a bit of the matcha milk mixture poured over top.
Enjoy!
Tips for making the best tres leches cake
- Use fresh, high-quality, culinary-grade matcha powder. The best matcha is vibrant green, smooth, and slightly sweet. We recommend using culinary-grade matcha when baking to help pull out the matcha flavor. Lower-quality matcha can taste bitter and looks dull or brownish.
Check out our culinary-grade matcha powder here.
- Give yourself time. Let the cake soak for at least a few hours or overnight to absorb the milk mixture fully.
- Whip egg whites properly. Stiff peaks ensure the sponge cake stays light and airy. This can take a few minutes to achieve! A clean, dry bowl can help you get the perfect texture.
- Chill before serving. Tres leches cake is best enjoyed cold.
Serving suggestions
This matcha tres leches cake is a showstopper all on its own, but it's also delicious paired with:
- Fresh berries- strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a tart contrast to the creamy sweetness.
- Drizzle of white chocolate- A light drizzle of melted white chocolate makes this even creamier and richer without overpowering the matcha.
- Serve with a matcha latte- Double on the matcha goodness with a homemade matcha latte!
Bottom Line
This matcha tres leches cake is the perfect indulgent dessert and is easy to make ahead of time. Each bite is light, moist, and packed with flavor. Give it a try and let us know how you like it!
