Matcha Tres Leches Cake Recipe

If you are a fan of delicate, moist cakes with a twist, then the Matcha Tres Leches Cake Recipe will become your new favorite indulgence. This luscious dessert combines the creamy, soaked texture of a traditional tres leches cake with the vibrant, earthy notes of matcha green tea powder. Every bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness, freshness, and that unmistakable green hue that makes this cake as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you deserve a treat, this recipe is sure to impress and delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential for achieving the light, airy cake and the rich, milky soak that defines this fusion dessert. Each item plays a key role, from the vibrant matcha powder adding that subtle bitterness and striking color, to the trio of milks creating the signature tres leches soaking experience.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of our tender cake crumb that holds everything together.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds just enough lift to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• 1 tablespoon matcha powder: Delivers the signature green tea flavor and stunning green color.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor by balancing sweetness.
• 5 large eggs (separated): The yolks enrich the batter while the whipped whites add airy volume.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (divided): Sweetens and stabilizes the egg whites for the perfect texture.
• 1/3 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk: The sweet, creamy backbone of the milky soak.
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk: Adds body and richness without extra sweetness.
• 1/2 cup whole milk: Helps balance and extend the soak.
• 1 teaspoon matcha powder (optional): For an extra green tea punch in the soaking milk.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whips into a luscious topping that complements the soaked cake perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream without graininess.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a gentle aroma and sweetness to the cream topping.
• Extra matcha powder (optional): For dusting the finished cake and boosting visual appeal.

How to Make Matcha Tres Leches Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, matcha powder, and salt to combine everything evenly. This step ensures your cake will have an even distribution of rising agents and that beautiful green tea flavor throughout the batter.

Step 2: Beat Egg Yolks and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks together with half the granulated sugar (1/2 cup) until the mixture turns pale and thickened. This process not only sweetens the batter but also incorporates air, contributing to a soft and light cake texture. Then, stir in the whole milk and vanilla extract for richness and warmth.

Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Carefully fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense, so gently fold to maintain the airy texture we’ve developed with the eggs. This creates the base batter to which we’ll later add the whipped egg whites.

Step 4: Whip Egg Whites and Incorporate

In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial for a fluffy cake that can soak up the tres leches milk mixture while still holding its structure. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter in batches, making sure to preserve all the air you’ve just whipped in.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean. Let the cake cool slightly once out of the oven—this helps it firm up enough to absorb the milk soak without breaking apart.

Step 6: Prepare Milk Soak and Infuse Cake

While the cake is cooling, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, whole milk, and if you like, a teaspoon of matcha powder for extra flavor and that iconic vivid green color. Once the cake is no longer hot, poke holes all over the surface using a fork or skewer; this allows the milk mixture to seep deep inside, saturating every bite. Slowly pour the milk soak evenly over the cake and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for the best results.

Step 7: Whip Topping and Finish Cake

Before serving, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, creating a smooth and fluffy topping that balances the dense, milky cake. Spread this luscious whipped cream over the cooled, soaked cake and dust lightly with matcha powder for an elegant presentation. Now, your Matcha Tres Leches Cake Recipe is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Matcha Tres Leches Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra matcha powder is a simple yet stunning way to finish this cake, adding a touch of vibrant green and a hint of bitterness that cuts through the sweetness. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries make a lovely contrast, both in color and flavor, enhancing the overall experience of every slice.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of green tea, as the flavors complement each other perfectly. If you want to add some texture contrast, serve alongside lightly toasted almonds or crunchy matcha cookies for a delightful fusion touch.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant twist, try serving individual portions in clear glass jars or parfait cups, layering cake pieces with whipped cream and a drizzle of the milk soak syrup. Another fun idea is to add some edible flowers or gold leaf on top, making it a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for celebrations or just treating yourself in style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Because this cake is soaked with milk, it should be stored in the refrigerator covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. Leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and the flavors only become more harmonious as the cake continues to soak.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the cake, it’s best to freeze it before adding the whipped cream topping. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and whip fresh cream to top it off.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not recommended. However, if you prefer it slightly less cold, let it sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving to fully savor all those nuanced flavors and creamy textures.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for this Matcha Tres Leches Cake Recipe?

All-purpose flour is recommended because it provides the perfect balance of structure and tenderness necessary for this cake. Using cake flour can make it lighter but might reduce its ability to hold the milk soak well.

Is it necessary to separate the eggs in this recipe?

Yes, separating the eggs and whipping the egg whites separately is key to creating an airy, light cake texture that absorbs the milk soak without becoming too dense or soggy.

Can I substitute the dairy milks for plant-based alternatives?

You can try using plant-based milks, but the traditional rich flavor and creamy texture come from the combination of evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk. If substituting, consider using thickened coconut milk and a sweetened condensed coconut milk alternative to mimic the richness.

How long should I let the cake soak in the milk mixture?

While a minimum of 3 hours works, letting the cake soak overnight in the refrigerator will result in the best flavor infusion and moist texture—definitely worth the wait!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends but expect some differences in texture. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum to help replicate the elasticity of wheat flour.

Final Thoughts

This Matcha Tres Leches Cake Recipe brings together two beloved desserts in a way that’s refreshing and utterly delicious. Its unique combination of creamy soaked cake and the bright, grassy flavor of matcha creates an experience that’s both elegant and comforting. I encourage you to try making this cake for your next gathering or whenever you need a special dessert to brighten your day. You’ll find it’s impossible to resist going back for just one more slice!

Matcha Tres Leches Cake Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour (plus at least 3 hours chilling)
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful fusion dessert combining the earthy flavors of matcha green tea with the rich, creamy texture of a traditional tres leches cake. This Matcha Tres Leches Cake features a light, airy sponge cake infused with matcha, soaked in a luscious three-milk mixture, and topped with fluffy whipped cream and a dusting of matcha powder for an elegant finish.

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Ingredients

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For the Cake

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon matcha powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 5 large eggs, separated
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Milk Soak

• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon matcha powder (optional, for added color/flavor)

For the Topping

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: extra matcha powder for dusting

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cake.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, matcha powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and flavor agents.
3. Beat Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and thick, creating a rich and voluminous base for the cake batter.
4. Add Milk and Vanilla: Stir the whole milk and vanilla extract into the egg yolk mixture, blending until smooth and incorporated.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Fold the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture until just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
6. Whip Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form, ensuring a light and airy texture.
7. Fold Egg Whites into Batter: Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the batter in batches, preserving the airiness while fully incorporating them.
8. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly to prepare for soaking.
10. Prepare Milk Soak Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, whole milk, and optional matcha powder to create the tres leches soak.
11. Poke Holes and Soak Cake: Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the surface of the slightly cooled cake. Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to absorb the liquid thoroughly.
12. Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the soaked cake for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight to let the flavors meld and the cake achieve optimal moistness.
13. Make the Topping: Beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, creating a fluffy and sweet topping.
14. Top and Serve: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake. Optionally, dust lightly with additional matcha powder before serving for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Notes

• Use ceremonial-grade matcha powder for a more vibrant green color and a smoother, less bitter taste.
• Allowing the cake to soak overnight enhances the flavor and texture for the best results.
• This cake pairs wonderfully with green tea or fresh berries as a refreshing complement.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Fusion (Japanese-Mexican)