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Matcha Tres Leches Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 28 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Fusion, Japanese-Latin
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Matcha Tres Leches Cake is a delightful fusion dessert combining the traditional Latin American tres leches cake with vibrant Japanese matcha powder. Moist and airy, the cake is soaked with a creamy matcha-infused milk mixture and topped with fluffy whipped cream dusted with extra matcha for a rich, earthy flavor. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress with a unique twist on a classic treat.


Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon culinary-grade matcha powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 5 large eggs, separated
  • 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Milk Soak

  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon matcha powder

For the Whipped Topping

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


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, culinary-grade matcha powder, and salt to ensure an even distribution of leavening and matcha flavor.
  3. Beat Egg Yolks: In a large bowl, beat the 5 egg yolks with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and thick, indicating air incorporation for a light cake texture.
  4. Add Milk and Vanilla: Stir the 1/3 cup whole milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the egg yolk mixture, blending well.
  5. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the sifted flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
  6. Whip Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, beat the 5 egg whites to soft peaks. Then gradually add the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form for volume and structure.
  7. Fold Egg Whites Into Batter: Gently fold the stiff egg whites into the batter in batches, preserving as much air as possible to keep the cake airy.
  8. Bake the Cake: Pour the completed batter into the greased baking dish and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before soaking.
  10. Prepare the Milk Soak: In a bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and 1 tablespoon of matcha powder until smooth and well combined.
  11. Soak the Cake: Using a fork, poke holes all over the cooled cake to allow the milk mixture to penetrate. Slowly pour the matcha milk soak evenly over the cake. Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully absorb the soak.
  12. Make the Whipped Topping: Before serving, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form for a light and creamy topping.
  13. Assemble and Serve: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the soaked cake. Dust with additional matcha powder if desired for a vibrant presentation and extra flavor. Slice and serve chilled.

Notes

  • For a stronger matcha flavor, increase the matcha powder slightly in the milk soak or whipped topping.
  • Use high-quality culinary-grade matcha powder for the best taste and vibrant green color.
  • Ensure egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks for optimal cake lightness and height.
  • Allow the cake to refrigerate long enough to fully absorb the milk soak for moistness.
  • The cake can be prepared a day ahead for enhanced flavor development.