Decadent Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Tres Leches Cake: An Easy Allergen-Friendly Recipe

Prepare to delight your taste buds with our incredibly decadent, sweet, and moist Gluten-Free Tres Leches Cake. This exceptional recipe is not only surprisingly easy to make but also presents beautifully, making it the perfect show-stopping dessert for any gathering or celebration. What truly sets this Tres Leches cake apart is its thoughtful design to be entirely gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a fantastic allergen-friendly option that everyone can enjoy. Topped with a cloud of fluffy, dairy-free whipped cream, each tender bite of this cake promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is both rich and refreshing.

This post is sponsored by Nature’s Charm. All text and opinions are my own.

What is Tres Leches Cake?

Tres Leches Cake, which translates to “Three Milks Cake” in Spanish, is a beloved dessert originating from Latin America, celebrated for its unique and luscious texture. Traditionally, it’s a light, airy sponge cake soaked in a rich blend of three different milks: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. This soaking process transforms the cake into an incredibly moist, almost pudding-like consistency, while retaining its delicate crumb. The result is a sweet, tender cake that quite literally melts in your mouth, often topped with a generous layer of whipped cream and garnished with fresh fruit or cinnamon.

Our special gluten-free and dairy-free adaptation captures all the magic of this classic Mexican dessert, making it accessible to those with dietary restrictions without compromising on flavor or texture. We achieve the characteristic custard-like sweetness and delightful sponginess using plant-based ingredients, ensuring that everyone can indulge in this irresistible treat. This recipe promises a truly authentic experience, delivering the same sweet, milky decadence that has made Tres Leches a worldwide favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Tres Leches Cake Recipe

This particular recipe for Tres Leches Cake isn’t just another dessert; it’s a culinary triumph designed to bring joy and inclusivity to your table. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore making and sharing this delightful treat:

• Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free with No Adaptations: This recipe is a game-changer for those navigating food allergies or embracing a plant-based diet. Unlike many recipes that require extensive modifications, our non-dairy Tres Leches cake is specifically crafted with gluten-free flour and vegan ingredients from the start. This means no guesswork or compromises, making it ideal for serving to friends or family who are vegan, lactose intolerant, or have celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. It’s a truly worry-free, allergen-friendly dessert that everyone can savor.
• Creamy Goodness Beyond Compare: The hallmark of a great Tres Leches cake is its incredibly moist and tender crumb, achieved by thoroughly soaking the sponge in a rich milk mixture. Our vegan milk blend penetrates deep into the cake, creating an unparalleled creamy texture that truly embodies that luxurious, custard-like indulgence. Each forkful is a symphony of flavors and textures, ensuring a truly satisfying dessert experience.
• Serves Beautifully for Any Occasion: Despite its delicate and moist nature, this cake is surprisingly robust. It cuts cleanly and slices smoothly without crumbling, allowing for elegant presentation every time. The fluffy dairy-free whipped cream topping not only adds another layer of exquisite taste but also provides the perfect canvas for creative garnishes. Imagine vibrant fresh fruit like strawberries, raspberries, or kiwi, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, or a dusting of cocoa powder to elevate its visual appeal and impress your guests.
• Effortless Make-Ahead Convenience: Planning a party or special event can be stressful, but your dessert won’t be! This lactose-free Tres Leches cake benefits immensely from being refrigerated overnight. As it rests, the “tres leches” mixture continues to soak into every fiber of the cake, deepening its flavor and enhancing its moistness. This makes it an excellent make-ahead dessert, freeing up your time on the day of your event. Simply prepare the cake and the milk soak the day before, store it in the fridge, and then add the freshly whipped cream just before serving for peak fluffiness.

Ingredients

To craft this delightful gluten-free and dairy-free Tres Leches Cake, you’ll need a selection of high-quality ingredients, carefully chosen to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture while adhering to dietary needs:

Cake Ingredients

• Gluten-Free 1-to-1 Flour: This specialized flour blend is crucial for maintaining the allergen-friendly nature of the cake. It’s formulated to replace traditional wheat flour cup-for-cup, ensuring a seamless baking experience and a tender, moist crumb.
• Fine Ground Almond Flour: Adding almond flour contributes a wonderful nutty depth of flavor and helps to create a delicate, moist texture. Opt for super-fine almond flour, like Bob’s Red Mill, for the smoothest consistency and best results in your cake.
• Cornstarch: A secret weapon in gluten-free baking, cornstarch helps to lighten the cake’s texture, providing a much-needed boost in tenderness and structure. It aids in binding the ingredients together in the absence of gluten, preventing a crumbly result.
• Salt: Just a touch of fine salt is essential to balance the sweetness and enhance all the other flavors present in the cake, making them pop.
• Baking Powder: This leavening agent is key to achieving the cake’s signature spongy, airy texture. It creates numerous small air pockets throughout the batter, which are vital for effectively soaking up the sweet milk mixture later on.
• Granulated Sugar: White granulated sugar provides the primary sweetness for the cake, ensuring it’s delightfully palatable without being overly rich.
• Vegan Butter (softened): Vegan butter adds crucial richness and fat content to the cake, contributing to its moistness and tender crumb. Ensure it’s softened at room temperature for easy and even incorporation into the batter.
• Non-Dairy Milk: Your favorite non-dairy milk (such as almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk) provides essential moisture to the cake batter, helping all the ingredients combine smoothly and creating a cohesive, well-hydrated sponge.
• Vegan Mayonnaise: Though it might seem unconventional, vegan mayo, typically made from soy milk and oil, is a fantastic addition to this recipe. It significantly boosts moisture and contributes a subtle tang that complements the sweetness, all while keeping the cake entirely vegan.
• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract infuses the cake with comforting, warm, and familiar aromatic notes, adding a classic depth of flavor that is universally loved.

Dairy-Free Milk Mixture Ingredients

• Dairy-Free Evaporated Milk: This key component of the “tres leches” mixture is specially processed to remove 50-60% of its water content, resulting in a thicker consistency and a more concentrated, rich flavor. For an excellent plant-based option, I highly recommend Nature’s Charm evaporated oat milk, which delivers exceptional creaminess.
• Dairy-Free Sweetened Condensed Milk: Sweetened condensed milk is vital for adding significant sweetness, richness, and viscosity to the milk soak. It’s what gives the Tres Leches its characteristic luxurious mouthfeel. Nature’s Charm sweetened condensed oat milk is my top choice for its quality and flavor.
• Non-Dairy Milk: This is the third “milk” in our Tres Leches blend, contributing to the overall volume and ensuring the cake is thoroughly saturated. Feel free to use your preferred non-dairy milk, such as almond, oat, or coconut milk, to complement the other milks in the mixture.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: A touch of pure vanilla extract in the milk mixture enhances the overall aroma and taste, tying all the sweet, creamy flavors together beautifully.
• Salt: A small pinch of salt in the milk mixture helps to balance the sweetness, preventing it from being cloyingly sweet and enhancing the complexity of the flavors.

Whipped Topping Ingredients

• Dairy-Free Whipping Cream: The grand finale for our Tres Leches cake! A rich, fluffy layer of dairy-free whipping cream provides a beautiful contrast in texture and a cooling counterpoint to the sweet, moist cake. For optimal fluffiness and stable peaks, remember to chill the whipping cream in the fridge overnight before you whip it.

Substitutions

While this recipe is carefully formulated for optimal results, a few substitutions can be made if necessary:

• Homemade Evaporated Milk: If dairy-free evaporated milk is hard to find in your local grocery store, or if you simply prefer to make your own, it’s a straightforward process. In a saucepan over medium heat, gently boil 2¼ cups of your favorite dairy-free milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk) for approximately 30-60 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Continue to simmer until the volume has reduced to exactly 1 cup. This concentrated milk will provide the necessary thickness and flavor for your Tres Leches mixture.
• Alternative Non-Dairy Milks: While oat milk and almond milk are fantastic in this recipe, you can experiment with other non-dairy milks like cashew milk or even light coconut milk for a slightly different flavor profile in both the cake and the milk soak. Ensure they are unsweetened if substituting in the cake batter to control sugar levels.
• Nut-Free Option: If you or your guests have a nut allergy, substituting the almond flour can be done. You can replace it with an equal amount of additional gluten-free 1-to-1 flour blend or, for a richer texture, with finely ground sunflower seed meal (ensure it’s not rancid). Be aware that texture and flavor might vary slightly.

How to Make Gluten-Free Tres Leches Cake

Crafting this delightful vegan Tres Leches cake is a straightforward process, broken down into three simple yet incredibly tasty components: the cake base, the luscious milk mixture, and the airy whipped cream topping. Each step uses common kitchen equipment, culminating in a stunning and supremely sweet dessert that’s a joy to behold and even better to eat.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to make it:

How to Make the Gluten-Free Cake

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine your gluten-free 1-to-1 flour, fine almond flour, cornstarch, salt, baking powder, and granulated sugar. Whisk these dry ingredients together well to ensure they are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Add the softened vegan butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse sand or fine breadcrumbs. This step ensures the butter is well integrated and helps create a tender cake texture.

Step 3: In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the non-dairy milk, vegan mayonnaise, and vanilla extract until they are fully combined and smooth. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk everything together until you have a smooth, lump-free batter. Once combined, let the batter rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial for gluten-free flours to properly hydrate, resulting in a better cake texture.

Step 4: While the batter rests, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8 inch square baking pan by lightly greasing it, then lining the bottom and sides with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. This prevents sticking and ensures a beautiful cake.

Step 5: Pour the rested cake batter evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter out smoothly, ensuring an even surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 43-48 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Patience is key here, as a fully cooled cake will absorb the milk mixture much more effectively.

Step 6: Once the cake has cooled completely to room temperature, use a fork or a thin toothpick to generously prick the entire surface of the cake. Make many holes, ensuring they are deep enough to penetrate the cake. This crucial step creates channels for the milk mixture to seep into every part of the sponge, ensuring maximum saturation and that signature moist texture.

How to Make the Tres Leches Milk Mixture

Step 1: In a clean bowl, combine all the dairy-free milk mixture ingredients: dairy-free evaporated milk, dairy-free sweetened condensed milk, your chosen non-dairy milk, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated. This ensures a consistent sweetness and richness throughout the soak.

Step 2: Carefully pour the prepared milk mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pricked, cooled cake. Make sure every part of the cake top is covered. Once soaked, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Transfer the cake to the refrigerator and allow it to soak up the milk mixture for a minimum of 1 hour. For the most decadent and fully saturated Tres Leches experience, it’s highly recommended to let it soak overnight.

How to Make the Dairy-Free Whipped Cream Frosting & Assemble the Cake

Step 1: Take your chilled can of dairy-free whipping cream from the fridge. Pour it into a large, clean mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer (or a stand mixer with a whisk attachment), beat the cream on medium-high speed for approximately 3-5 minutes, or until soft, fluffy peaks form. Be careful not to overmix, as it can turn grainy.

Step 2: Once the Tres Leches cake has thoroughly absorbed the milk mixture and is beautifully chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Gently spread the freshly whipped dairy-free topping evenly over the entire surface of the cake. For best serving, keep the assembled cake chilled in the fridge until you are ready to enjoy it.

Step 3: For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, consider sprinkling a light dusting of ground cinnamon over the whipped cream. Alternatively, garnish with vibrant fresh fruits such as sliced strawberries, raspberries, or even a few mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Recipe Success Tips

Achieving the perfect moist and flavorful Gluten-Free Tres Leches Cake is all about paying attention to a few key details. Follow these tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time:

• Allow the batter to rest for 30 minutes before baking: This crucial step is particularly important for gluten-free baked goods. It gives the various flours (gluten-free 1-to-1 blend and almond flour) adequate time to fully absorb the liquid ingredients. This hydration process helps prevent a gritty texture and results in a more cohesive, tender, and structurally sound cake.
• Cool the cake completely in the pan: After baking, resist the urge to immediately flip or remove the cake from its pan. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack within the pan. A thoroughly cooled cake is essential because it will be firm enough to handle the liquid soak without breaking apart and will absorb the milk mixture much more efficiently and evenly.
• Prick the cake generously with a fork or toothpick: Don’t be shy here! Once the cake is fully cooled, create many small, deep holes across its entire surface using a fork or toothpick. The more holes you make, the better the tres leches mixture can penetrate every part of the spongy cake, ensuring maximum saturation and that wonderfully moist, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Plan for adequate time for the tres leches mixture to soak: This is arguably the most important step for a truly authentic Tres Leches cake. The milk mixture needs at least one hour to soak into the cake layer, but the best results are achieved when the cake is allowed to soak up to overnight in the refrigerator. This extended soaking time not only deepens the flavor profile but also ensures the cake is fully hydrated, making it incredibly tender and much easier to slice and serve cleanly.
• Start with very cold whipping cream for the topping: For dairy-free whipping cream to achieve maximum fluffiness and hold stable peaks, it must be thoroughly chilled. Place the can of dairy-free whipping cream in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 6-8 hours before you plan to whip it. A cold bowl and beaters can also assist in achieving the best possible airy texture.

Recipe Variations

While this classic gluten-free and dairy-free Tres Leches is a showstopper on its own, don’t hesitate to get creative with these delicious variations:

• Tropical Coconut Tres Leches Cake: Elevate the exotic flavors by using sweetened condensed coconut milk and evaporated coconut milk in your “tres leches” mixture. For an extra touch of tropical delight, generously sprinkle toasted shredded or flaked coconut over the dairy-free whipped cream topping. You can even add a teaspoon of coconut extract to the cake batter for an intensified coconut aroma.
• Warm Cinnamon Spice Tres Leches: For a cozy and aromatic twist, incorporate ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the dry cake batter ingredients. Once the whipped topping is spread, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon sugar (a blend of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon) over the top. Serve this warm-spiced cake alongside a cup of cinnamon tea or garnish with elegant whole cinnamon sticks for a visually appealing finish.
• Rich Chocolate Tres Leches: Indulge your chocolate cravings by introducing a layer of your favorite non-dairy chocolate. After applying the whipped topping, generously shave or finely chop a high-quality non-dairy chocolate bar over the entire cake. The rich, slightly bitter notes of chocolate will beautifully complement the sweet, milky cake, creating a truly decadent dairy-free dessert.
• Nutty Almond Bliss Tres Leches: This cake already boasts a comforting nutty flavor from the almond flour. To amplify this, add an additional ½ teaspoon of almond extract to the cake batter for a more pronounced almond essence. For the whipped cream, incorporate another ½ teaspoon of almond extract before whipping to infuse it with a delightful nutty aroma. Finish the cake by scattering slivered or sliced almonds over the whipped topping for added texture and a beautiful presentation.
• Fresh Fruit Medley Tres Leches: While strawberries are a classic garnish, consider a medley of seasonal fresh fruits. Thinly sliced kiwi, mango cubes, blueberries, or even a mix of berries can add vibrant color, a refreshing tartness, and a delightful textural contrast to the rich cake. Arrange them artfully on top of the whipped cream for a stunning and delicious presentation.

Serving Suggestions

This easy gluten-free and dairy-free Tres Leches dessert is truly best enjoyed when thoroughly chilled. Its cool, moist texture is incredibly refreshing, especially when enhanced with a delicate dash of ground cinnamon or garnished with vibrant, sliced fresh fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or kiwi. For a complete and delightful dessert experience, consider serving it with:

• A hot cup of Tea: The warmth of a calming herbal tea or a robust black tea provides a lovely contrast to the cool sweetness of the cake.
• Rich Mexican Hot Chocolate: For an extra layer of indulgence, pair it with a spiced Mexican hot chocolate. The subtle warmth and hint of cinnamon in the drink will beautifully complement the cake’s flavors.
• Assorted Sliced Fresh Fruit: Beyond just strawberries, a platter of mixed fresh fruits like mango, pineapple, or berries can add a refreshing, light counterpoint and a burst of natural sweetness.
• Your favorite Coffee: Whether it’s a strong espresso, a creamy latte, or a simple black coffee, the slight bitterness of coffee always makes a wonderful pairing with sweet desserts, cutting through the richness perfectly.
• A Scoop of Dairy-Free Ice Cream: For ultimate indulgence, a scoop of vanilla or coconut-flavored dairy-free ice cream alongside your slice of Tres Leches can elevate this dessert to new heights of deliciousness.

Storage Directions

Proper storage is key to maintaining the deliciousness and moist texture of your gluten-free and dairy-free Tres Leches cake. Here’s how to ensure it stays fresh:

• Store: Due to its milk-soaked nature and whipped cream topping, Tres Leches cake must be kept refrigerated. Store any leftover cake covered in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing refrigerator odors. When stored correctly, it will maintain its exquisite taste and texture for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: If you’re looking to extend the life of your Tres Leches cake, it freezes beautifully without the whipped cream topping. To freeze, ensure the cake is fully soaked and chilled, but do not add the whipped cream. Wrap the cake (still in its pan or carefully transferred to a freezer-safe container) tightly with plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. It can be stored in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, defrost the cake in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, prepare and add the fresh dairy-free whipped cream topping just before serving.

FAQs

Tools Needed to Make This Recipe

• Measuring Cups & Spoons
• Mixing Bowls (at least 3: one for dry cake ingredients, one for wet cake ingredients, one for milk mixture, and one for whipped cream)
• Spatula or Spoon for mixing and spreading
• 8×8 Inch Square Baking Pan
• Fork or Toothpick for pricking the cake
• Whisk for mixing batters and milk mixture
• Hand Mixer or Electric Stand Mixer with whisk attachment for whipping cream
• Wire Cooling Rack

More Cake Recipes

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