Vegan Tres Leches Recipe: Easy and Delicious Dessert

There’s something truly magical about the classic Latin American dessert, Tres Leches cake. Traditionally soaked in three kinds of milk, this dessert is beloved for its moist, tender crumb and rich, creamy finish.

But what if you could enjoy this iconic treat without any dairy or animal products? Enter the vegan tres leches cake—a plant-based twist that captures all the lusciousness and flavor without compromising your dietary choices.

This recipe is perfect for everyone, whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply curious to try a lighter, dairy-free alternative. The cake remains incredibly moist thanks to a combination of almond milk, coconut milk, and homemade cashew cream, delivering the iconic tres leches experience in a compassionate, delicious way.

Plus, it’s easy enough for bakers of all skill levels to master!

Ready to impress your friends and family with a show-stopping dessert that’s both indulgent and cruelty-free? Let’s dive into the magic of vegan tres leches!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan tres leches recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it retains the traditional moist texture that makes tres leches cake so irresistible, using plant-based milks and cashew cream to mimic the original flavor profile beautifully.

It’s also naturally free of eggs, dairy, and refined sugars (if you choose), making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.

Second, the ingredients are easy to find in most grocery stores, and the preparation is straightforward—no complicated techniques or hard-to-source items. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or craving a sweet treat, this cake will satisfy your dessert desires without guilt.

Lastly, it’s versatile! You can customize the flavors by adding vanilla, cinnamon, or even tropical fruits to the topping, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

For more vegan dessert inspiration, check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant milk)
• ¼ cup melted coconut oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Tres Leches Soak:
• 1 cup canned coconut milk (full fat)
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• ¾ cup cashew cream (see Instructions to prepare)
• ¼ cup maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Topping:
• 1 cup coconut whipped cream or vegan whipped topping
• Fresh berries or cinnamon (optional garnish)

Equipment

• 9×9-inch square baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender or food processor (for cashew cream)
• Toothpick or fork (for testing cake doneness)
• Spatula

Instructions

1. Prepare the cashew cream: Soak ½ cup raw cashews in hot water for at least 2 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse, then blend with ½ cup water until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line the baking pan with parchment paper.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Combine the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the almond milk, melted coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the wet into the dry: Slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
6. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool the cake: Remove from oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
8. Prepare the tres leches soak: In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, almond milk, cashew cream, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
9. Soak the cake: Using a fork or skewer, poke holes all over the cooled cake. Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
10. Add the topping: Spread the coconut whipped cream over the soaked cake just before serving. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch.

Tips & Variations

Use canned coconut milk for a richer soak; the fat content makes the cake wonderfully moist.

For a soy-free version, stick with almond or oat milk and ensure your whipped topping is also soy-free.

Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spicy note.

Top with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

If you want to experiment with other vegan creamy sauces, don’t miss our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes—it’s just as luscious.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegan tres leches cake is best served chilled, straight from the fridge. Its creamy texture pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a refreshing iced tea.

For a festive touch, consider serving it with a side of fresh tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or berries. This adds a bright contrast to the rich, milky cake.

If you’re hosting a party or potluck, slice the cake into small squares for easy serving. You can also layer the cake in individual mason jars for a charming presentation.

For a fun twist, try adding a splash of coffee or espresso to the milk soak for a vegan tres leches mocha variation.

Explore more delicious plant-based meal ideas in our collection of Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

Conclusion

This vegan tres leches cake offers a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, bringing the beloved dessert into the plant-based world. Its moist crumb, rich milky soak, and fluffy topping make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy.

Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable to your taste preferences.

By using wholesome ingredients and a few clever substitutions, you can create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also kinder to animals and the environment. So next time you want to impress with a luscious, dairy-free treat, give this vegan tres leches recipe a try.

Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you!

Curious to try more vegan baking? Don’t miss our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves for another rewarding kitchen adventure.

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