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Mocha Tres Leches Cake

Mocha Tres Leches Cake

The Mocha Tres Leches Cake is a rich, creamy dessert that blends classic tres leches with bold mocha flavors. This Mocha Tres Leches Cake recipe is perfect for any celebration, delivering indulgence with every bite.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup 120g all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp 4g baking powder
  • ¼ cup 20g unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 5 large eggs 250g
  • 1 cup 200g granulated sugar
  • cup 80ml whole milk

For the Mocha Milk Mixture:

  • 1 14 oz/400g can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 12 oz/340g can evaporated milk
  • ½ cup 120ml heavy cream
  • cup 80ml strong brewed coffee or espresso
  • 2 tbsp 10g unsweetened cocoa powder

For the Whipped Topping:

  • cups 360ml heavy cream
  • ¼ cup 30g powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp 5ml vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1 tsp 3g instant coffee for extra mocha flavor

Garnish:

  • Cocoa powder or chocolate curls optional, ~5g

Instructions
 

Bake the Cake

  • I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish, lightly dusting with flour. In a bowl, I sift 1 cup flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and ¼ cup cocoa powder. In a large bowl, I beat 5 eggs and 1 cup sugar with a mixer until thick and pale, about 7 minutes. I gently fold in the dry ingredients, then add ⅓ cup milk, stirring until just combined. I pour the batter into the pan, smooth the top, and bake for 22–25 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. I let the cake cool completely in the pan.

Make the Mocha Milk Mixture

  • In a large measuring cup, I whisk together 1 can sweetened condensed milk, 1 can evaporated milk, ½ cup heavy cream, ⅓ cup strong coffee, and 2 tbsp cocoa powder until smooth and fully dissolved.

Soak the Cake

  • Using a fork, I poke holes all over the cooled cake. I slowly pour the mocha milk mixture evenly over the cake, letting it absorb gradually. I cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for maximum flavor.

Make the Whipped Topping

  • Before serving, I beat 1½ cups heavy cream, ¼ cup powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla, and optional 1 tsp instant coffee until stiff peaks form. I spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake.

Garnish and Serve

  • I dust the top with cocoa powder or sprinkle with chocolate curls for a elegant touch, then slice and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Egg tip: Use room-temperature eggs for a fluffier sponge.
  • Flavor balance: Use strong coffee or espresso for bold mocha taste.
  • Make ahead: The flavor deepens if soaked overnight.
  • Variations: Try brownie base for a richer version, hot cocoa tres leches with marshmallows, or tiramisu-style with mascarpone cream.
  • Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days; freezing not recommended after adding whipped cream.

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Keyword Mocha Tres Leches Cake