Go Back
Tres Leches Pumpkin Cake

Tres Leches Pumpkin Cake

The ultimate comfort food, Tres Leches Pumpkin Cake combines the moist decadence of tres leches with the warm flavors of pumpkin spice. Perfect for fall gatherings, this easy-to-make dessert is a showstopper that will leave your guests craving more!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Desserts
Cuisine American
Servings 12 slices
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Chef's Knife
  • Whisk
  • Frying Pan
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup granulated white sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 15 oz pure pumpkin puree Not pumpkin pie filling
  • 3/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • Pinch cloves
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 12 oz evaporated milk
  • 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream cold
  • 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon maple extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Ground cinnamon for dusting the top optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This initial step is crucial for ensuring a perfect bake; make sure your oven is fully heated before you introduce your batter.
  • Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with cooking spray and set it aside. This will help the cake release easily once it’s baked, ensuring a beautiful finish.
  • In a large bowl, combine both sugars, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer on medium-low speed, beat these ingredients together until just combined, which should take about 30 seconds. The mixture should look smooth and slightly frothy.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the spices. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures that all the leavening agents and flavors are evenly distributed.
  • Gradually add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture, then beat on medium speed until fully combined. The batter should be thick yet pourable and well-mixed without any lumps.
  • Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, smoothing it out with a spatula to create an even layer. This step is essential for even baking and a nice, flat cake top.
  • Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake, as this could lead to a dry cake.
  • Once baked, place the cake on a cooling rack and let it cool for 15 minutes. This allows it to set before adding the tres leches mixture.
  • In the meantime, whisk together heavy whipping cream, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and ground cinnamon in a medium bowl until well combined. This delicious liquid will soak into the cake.
  • Using the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the warm cake. This will help the milk mixture soak in deeply, infusing every bite with flavor.
  • Pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring every inch is covered. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This soaking process is what makes the cake so moist and flavorful.
  • Just before serving, prepare the maple whipped cream topping. In a large cold bowl, whip together heavy whipping cream, confectioners' sugar, maple syrup, maple extract, and cinnamon until stiff peaks form, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. The whipped cream should be light and fluffy.
  • Spread the whipped cream evenly over the cake, creating a beautiful layer on top. Optionally, sprinkle ground cinnamon for a finishing touch.
  • Slice and serve your Tres Leches Pumpkin Cake. Enjoy the delighted reactions from those you share it with!

Notes

  • Storage: Leftover cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep it covered to maintain its moisture.
  • Freezing: It’s possible to freeze the cake, but be sure to omit the whipped cream topping before freezing. Wrap it tightly and consume within 2 months.
  • Pairing: Serve your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a cup of hot cider for a perfect autumn-themed dessert.
  • Flavor Variations: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for added texture and flavor.
  • Occasions: This cake is perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, and fall celebrations.
Keyword Fall Desserts, Pumpkin Cake, Thanksgiving Recipes, Tres Leches Dessert