Transform a simple box cake mix into a decadent Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix that is easy to make and will impress your friends and family. This delightful dessert is perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just a sweet treat after dinner. Its unique blend of pumpkin flavor and the classic tres leches soaking technique creates an unforgettable experience for your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Using a box cake mix simplifies the process, making it accessible even for beginner bakers.
- Deliciously Moist: The tres leches soaking method ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor and moisture.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: This dessert is ideal for fall festivities, holiday dinners, or casual get-togethers.
- Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness to your liking by modifying the amount of sweetened condensed milk you use.
- Impressive Presentation: Topped with fluffy whipped cream and spices, this cake looks as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the delicious world of Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix, gather your tools. Having everything ready will help streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Handheld mixer
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Plastic wrap or lid
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 inch baking dish: Provides ample space for the cake to bake evenly.
- Handheld mixer: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients without much effort.
- Whisk: Perfect for combining liquids smoothly, especially for the milk mixture.
Ingredients
Transform a simple box cake mix into a decadent Pumpkin Tres Leches Cake that is easy to make and will impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 Box White Cake Mix
– ½ cup Unsalted Butter
– 4 Eggs
– 15 ounce Pumpkin Puree
– 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice
– 12 ounces Evaporated Milk
– 14 ounces Sweetened Condensed Milk (or use 10 ounces for a less sweet cake)
– 6 ounces Whole Milk
– 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice)
– 8 ounces Heavy Whipping Cream (or 16 oz for more topping)
– 2 tablespoons Sugar (or powdered sugar)
– 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
– Cinnamon or Pumpkin Pie Spice (for topping)
How to Make Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease just the bottom of a 9×13 dish with baking spray, oil, or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, add the white cake mix, melted butter, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and pumpkin puree.
* Do not add any water or milk.
* Use a handheld mixer to mix for about two minutes until well combined.
* Pour the batter into the greased pan.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Cool and Prepare Milk Mixture
Allow the cake to cool for about 20 minutes. While cooling:
* Combine evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk in a mixing bowl.
* If you prefer less sweetness, use only 10 ounces of sweetened condensed milk.
* Optionally, add cinnamon to your mixture; whisk until well combined.
Step 5: Soak the Cake
Once cooled:
* Use a fork or skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake.
* Slowly pour the milk mixture evenly over the cake.
* Allow time for it to soak in before adding more liquid.
Step 6: Refrigerate
Cover the cake with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate overnight or at least four hours to allow flavors to meld.
Step 7: Prepare Whipped Cream Topping
Before serving:
* Place your mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the freezer for a few minutes.
* In a chilled bowl, add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and sugar.
* Whisk on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
Step 8: Serve
Remove the cake from refrigeration:
* Evenly spread whipped cream on top.
* Sprinkle with ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice before serving.
How to Serve Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix
Serving Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix can elevate your dessert experience. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for various occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will impress your guests.
Individual Portions
- Serve small slices of the cake in individual dessert cups for a charming presentation.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.
With Fresh Fruits
- Pair the cake with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas to balance the sweetness.
- Consider a side of spiced apple slices for a seasonal touch.
Drizzled Sauces
- Drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over each slice for added indulgence.
- A light raspberry coulis can add a refreshing contrast to the flavors.
Garnished Plates
- Create a beautiful plate by garnishing with mint leaves or edible flowers.
- Dust with extra cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for an appealing look.
Coffee or Tea Pairing
- Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or chai tea to enhance the dessert experience.
- The warmth of the drink complements the rich flavors of the cake.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix
Perfecting your Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Skip Poking Holes: Poking holes in the cake allows the milks to soak in, making it moist and delicious.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the cake to chill overnight enhances its flavor and texture significantly.
- Adjust Sweetness: Modify the amount of sweetened condensed milk based on your preference for sweetness.
- Top Generously: Don’t be shy with whipped cream; a thick layer adds richness and visual appeal.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different spices such as nutmeg or allspice for unique flavor variations.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Tres Leches can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement this delightful dessert perfectly.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and balances the flavors of the cake.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy contrast that pairs well with the softness of the cake.
- Coconut Flan: This creamy flan offers a tropical twist that complements pumpkin flavors beautifully.
- Churros: Serve warm churros dusted in cinnamon sugar as an exciting, crispy addition to your meal.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can refresh your palate after rich desserts.
- Mexican Hot Chocolate: Enjoying this rich beverage alongside can enhance the overall flavor experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final outcome.
- Using the wrong cake mix – Always choose a white cake mix. A different flavor can change the taste significantly, so stick to the original for best results.
- Overbaking the cake – Baking too long can dry out your cake. Keep an eye on it and use a toothpick to check for doneness at the 30-minute mark.
- Skipping the soaking step – Not allowing the cake to soak in the milk mixture is a missed opportunity for flavor. Be patient and let it absorb overnight for optimal moisture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately – Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you add the correct amounts of each ingredient.
- Forgetting to chill – Refrigerating your Pumpkin Tres Leches Cake is crucial for allowing flavors to meld. Don’t skip this step; at least four hours will enhance taste and texture.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep chilled until ready to serve.
Freezing Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix
- You can freeze your cake for up to 2 months.
- Wrap well in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for best results.
Reheating Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop – Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering it to retain moisture. Heat for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix?
Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix is a delicious twist on traditional tres leches cake, using a box cake mix as a base combined with pumpkin puree and spices.
Can I use other types of milk?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk if you prefer a dairy-free option for your Pumpkin Tres Leches.
How do I make my whipped cream topping stiffer?
To achieve stiffer whipped cream, make sure your bowl and whisk are cold before whipping. Use heavy cream and whip until stiff peaks form.
Can I customize the spices in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust pumpkin pie spice or add nutmeg according to your taste preferences when making Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix.
How long should I let my cake soak?
For best results, refrigerate your cake overnight after pouring the milk mixture over it. This allows it to soak thoroughly.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Don’t hesitate to customize it further by adding nuts or chocolate shavings! Enjoy experimenting with flavors!
Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix
Indulge in the delightful taste of Pumpkin Tres Leches Cake, a scrumptious twist on the classic dessert that combines the convenience of box cake mix with the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices. This easy-to-make cake features a moist texture soaked in a luscious milk mixture, creating an unforgettable dessert experience. Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply treating yourself after dinner, this decadent treat is sure to impress your friends and family. Top it with fluffy whipped cream and festive spices for a beautiful presentation that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 1 Box White Cake Mix
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter
- 4 Eggs
- 15 ounce Pumpkin Puree
- 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 12 ounces Evaporated Milk
- 14 ounces Sweetened Condensed Milk (or use 10 ounces for less sweetness)
- 6 ounces Whole Milk
- 8 ounces Heavy Whipping Cream
- Sugar (for sweetening whipped cream)
- Cinnamon or Pumpkin Pie Spice (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease only the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine white cake mix, melted butter, eggs, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix well using a handheld mixer for about two minutes until combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, mix evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk in another bowl.
- Poke holes in the cooled cake and pour the milk mixture over it slowly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or at least four hours.
- For topping, whip heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form before serving.
- Spread whipped cream over the chilled cake and sprinkle with cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 308
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 76mg
Keywords: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for best mixing results. Allow ample soaking time for maximum flavor absorption. Customize sweetness by adjusting condensed milk amounts or adding different spices like nutmeg.
