Our pumpkin tres leches cake recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, infusing the richness of pumpkin into every bite. With its moist and spiced sponge soaked in three creamy milks, it’s the perfect treat to celebrate the season. As the leaves turn golden and the air carries a chill, it’s time to indulge in the warmth of these fall flavors.
Pumpkin Tres Leches Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, spices, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just incorporated. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the dish for about 10 minutes, then pierce it all over with a fork.
- Prepare the tres leches mixture by combining whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk in a separate bowl. Slowly pour this mixture over the warm cake, ensuring it soaks in evenly.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Pumpkin Puree: Ensure you use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sweeteners. You can also make your own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spices to your preference. You can increase or decrease the amounts of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to suit your taste.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For fluffier cake batter, use room temperature eggs. This allows for better incorporation with the sugar.
- Baking Dish: A 9x9-inch square baking dish is recommended for this recipe. You can also use a similar-sized round dish if preferred.
- Piercing the Cake: When you pierce the cake with a fork after baking, be sure to make enough holes for the tres leches mixture to penetrate evenly.
- Tres Leches Mixture: Allow the cake to cool slightly before pouring the tres leches mixture. This prevents the cake from becoming too soggy.
- Refrigeration Time: While you can enjoy the cake after a few hours of refrigeration, it's even better when left overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the cake to reach its peak moisture.
- Topping Variations: Get creative with toppings. Besides whipped cream, consider garnishing with chopped nuts, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make the cake gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Serving: Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture. Refrigerate any leftovers to keep them fresh.
Why Make Pumpkin Tres Leches Cake?
The Pumpkin Tres Leches Cake is the perfect fall dessert because it combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin with the indulgence of a tres leches cake. It’s a delightful way to celebrate autumn and impress your guests during seasonal gatherings.
How Difficult Is It To Make Pumpkin Tres Leches Cake?
This recipe is surprisingly easy, even for beginner bakers. With step-by-step instructions, you’ll create a moist and flavorful cake that will have everyone thinking you’re a baking pro.
How Does Pumpkin Tres Leches Cake Taste?
The cake boasts a rich pumpkin flavor with hints of warm spices. It’s incredibly moist, thanks to the tres leches soaking, and the result is a dessert that’s both comforting and decadent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use freshly cooked and pureed pumpkin in this recipe.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake for several hours?
Yes, refrigeration allows the cake to absorb the tres leches mixture fully and enhances the flavor.
Can I make this cake in advance for a party?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s often even better when made a day ahead.
Can I top the cake with whipped cream or other garnishes?
Yes, whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce make excellent toppings.
Is this cake gluten-free?
The recipe as written contains wheat flour, but you can explore gluten-free alternatives for a gluten-free version.
Our Delightful Pumpkin Tres Leches Cake
The pumpkin tres leches cake recipe is a delightful autumn dessert that combines the richness of pumpkin with the indulgence of a tres leches cake. Easy to make and bursting with fall flavors, it’s the perfect addition to your seasonal gatherings or a cozy evening treat. Give it a try and savor the taste of fall in every bite.
