Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that is both indulgent and comforting, you’ve come to the right place! This Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake is one of my all-time favorites. It’s a delightful twist on the classic tres leches cake, perfectly blending the richness of buttery toasted pecans with a creamy three-milk soak. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this cake brings smiles to all faces and fills hearts with warmth.

What makes this Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake truly special is how incredibly moist it is. Once soaked in that luscious milk mixture, every bite melts in your mouth. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying precious moments with loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easily made ahead: Prepare this cake the night before your gathering for a stress-free dessert.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the sweet, creamy texture combined with crunchy pecans!
• Perfectly moist: The three-milk soak ensures every slice is rich and flavorful.
• Adaptable flavors: Customize it with your favorite nuts or add fresh fruit for an extra twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that luxurious texture and delectable flavor everyone will adore.

For the Cake

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 5 large eggs, separated
• 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Milk Soak

• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Topping

• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Additional toasted pecans for garnish

Variations

One of the best things about this Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and put your spin on this classic recipe.

• Swap the nuts: Try using walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different flavor profile.
• Add some fruit: Layer fresh berries or banana slices on top of the whipped cream for added freshness.
• Make it chocolatey: Incorporate cocoa powder into the batter for a rich chocolate-flavored cake.
• Try different milks: Experiment with coconut milk or almond milk for a unique twist on the traditional three-milk soak.

How to Make Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is important as it combines those dry ingredients well before adding them to your wet mix.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Yolks

In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 3/4 cup sugar until they become pale and fluffy. This aeration adds lightness to your cake! Stir in whole milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter before gradually folding in the flour mixture.

Step 4: Beat Egg Whites

In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add in the remaining 1/4 cup sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. These whipped egg whites are what will give your cake its incredible rise!

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gently fold the egg whites into your batter until just combined—be careful not to deflate them! Finally, stir in those delicious toasted pecans for that nutty flavor burst.

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow it to cool completely.

Step 7: Make Your Milk Soak

While waiting for your cake to cool down, whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and melted butter in a large bowl. This creamy mixture will soak into your cooled cake beautifully!

Step 8: Soak Your Cake

Once cooled, poke holes all over the surface of your cake using a fork or skewer. Slowly pour that heavenly milk mixture evenly over it while allowing it to soak in. Cover up and let it chill in the fridge for at least four hours or overnight if you can wait!

Step 9: Whip Up Some Topping

To prepare that luscious topping, beat heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form again. Spread this whipped cream evenly over your soaked cake—this is where all that delightful creaminess comes from!

Step 10: Garnish & Serve

Finally, sprinkle additional toasted pecans on top for an extra crunch! Serve chilled and enjoy every scrumptious bite of this Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

Creating the perfect Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help ensure your cake turns out beautifully!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing eggs and milk to come to room temperature helps in achieving a smoother batter and a more even bake.
• Toast your pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the cake not only enhances their flavor but also adds a wonderful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the moist cake.
• Soak overnight: For the best flavor and texture, let your cake soak in the milk mixture overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures every bite is deliciously creamy.
• Poke holes uniformly: When poking holes in your baked cake, make sure they are evenly spaced. This will help the milk mixture soak into every part of the cake, enhancing its moistness.
• Chill before serving: Serving this cake chilled allows the flavors to settle and makes each slice refreshing on the palate, perfect for warm days or festive occasions.

How to Serve Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake

Presenting your Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake can turn this delightful dessert into a stunning centerpiece. Here are some ideas for serving!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light and airy texture that complements the richness of the cake.
• Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce not only enhances the sweetness but also adds an appealing visual element that makes your dessert look extra special.
• Fresh berries: Adding strawberries or raspberries can provide a pop of color and a tart contrast to the rich flavors of the tres leches cake.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the cake and can cleanse the palate.
• Chocolate mousse: The creamy texture of chocolate mousse pairs beautifully with tres leches, providing an indulgent chocolate contrast that many will love.
• Coffee or espresso: Serving this cake alongside a cup of coffee or espresso enhances its flavors and creates a lovely finish for any meal.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds an extra layer of creaminess that complements this already decadent dessert.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen and ensuring you have a delightful dessert ready for any occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3-5 days for the best taste and texture.
• If you notice any excess moisture on the surface, gently dab it with a paper towel before sealing.

Freezing

• To freeze, slice the cake into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• This cake is best served cold but can be gently warmed if desired.
• To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until slightly warm.
• Avoid overheating as this may change its creamy texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake.

Can I use different nuts in my Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake?

Absolutely! While pecans add a lovely flavor, walnuts or almonds can also work well. Just be sure to toast them for enhanced flavor!

How long does the Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake need to soak?

The cake should soak for at least 4 hours, but overnight soaking is ideal. This allows it to absorb all that delicious three-milk mixture!

Can I make Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake without eggs?

Yes! You can use egg substitutes like applesauce or a commercial egg replacer. Adjust the recipe accordingly to maintain texture.

How do I ensure my Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake stays moist?

Make sure to poke enough holes in the cake before adding the milk mixture. This helps it absorb more liquid, keeping it moist and flavorful!

Final Thoughts

This Butter Pecan Tres Leches Cake is truly special—it’s rich, creamy, and bursting with pecan goodness! I hope you enjoy making this delightful dessert as much as I do. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply treating yourself after a long day. Remember, every bite is filled with love and care! Happy baking!