Oh, mi querida familia, when the air turns crisp and the golden leaves begin to fall, you know what time it is it’s Pumpkin Spice Three Milks Cake season! This sweet, spiced dessert is a cozy embrace on a plate. Imagine a soft, pumpkin-infused sponge cake soaked in three luscious milks, topped with fluffy whipped cream, and kissed with cinnamon. ¡Ay, qué delicia!
This cake is more than dessert it’s tradition, nostalgia, and celebration baked into every bite. I still remember helping Abuela in her warm kitchen, her apron dusted with flour, her laughter echoing as she’d say, “El amor entra por la cocina” love enters through the kitchen. That saying still fills my heart every time I bake.
So, let’s turn on some soft music, pour ourselves a cafecito, and make this cozy masterpiece together.
Why This Pumpkin Spice Three Milks Cake Brings Joy to the Table
What makes this cake so special? It’s the way it connects us to our roots, to our seasons, and to each other. The rich blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen and soul. And when you cut that first slice and see the creamy milk soak glistening in the cake ¡ay Dios mío! you’ll know you’ve made something magical.
This dessert isn’t just sweet; it’s sentimental. It reminds us of family gatherings, laughter, and cozy nights around the table. Each bite feels like a hug from Tía Maribel herself warm, sweet, and full of cariño.
What You’ll Need
Let’s gather everything we need to make this tres leches con calabaza (pumpkin three milks cake):
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 cup whole milk
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Ground cinnamon, for garnish
Just seeing these ingredients together makes my heart happy simple, humble, and full of flavor.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Pumpkin Spice Three Milks Cake
Follow along, mis amores, and you’ll have a cake that makes everyone ask for seconds.
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step is like setting the stage for a performance our cake deserves a grand entrance!
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Give them a little swirl it’s like letting your ingredients meet and mingle before the big party.
3. Whip Eggs and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. This is where your cake gets its beautiful texture. Think of this step as infusing your batter with joy!
4. Add Pumpkin and Spices
Gently stir in the vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Ah, smell that? That’s the scent of autumn dancing through your kitchen.
5. Combine It All
Slowly fold in your dry ingredients until just combined. Don’t overmix this cake likes to stay tender and light.
6. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. While it bakes, maybe call your sister or put on your favorite canción it’s all part of the ritual!
7. Prepare the Three Milks
In a bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk. This creamy trio is what makes the cake so heavenly moist.
8. Soak the Cake
When the cake has cooled slightly, poke holes all over the top using a fork. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, letting it soak in gradually. Don’t rush this part the cake is thirsty!
9. Chill and Rest
Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better. The longer it soaks, the creamier it becomes.
10. Top and Serve
Spread a thick layer of whipped cream on top and dust with cinnamon. It’s your cake’s crowning glory! Slice, serve, and watch the smiles bloom.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Three Milks Cake for Family & Friends
This cake is meant to be shared, mi familia! Serve it chilled for the best texture. Cut generous squares and top with extra whipped cream if you’re feeling indulgent (and why not?).
It pairs beautifully with:
- A warm mug of café de olla or hot chocolate
- Vanilla ice cream for extra creaminess
- A drizzle of caramel sauce for a festive touch
Set your table with autumn colors burnt orange napkins, a cinnamon candle, and a touch of love. Then, sit back and watch as your family digs in and the laughter fills the room.
How to Keep Pumpkin Spice Three Milks Cake Fresh for Later
If you have leftovers (¡qué milagro!), don’t worry this cake keeps beautifully.
- Refrigerate: Store covered for 3–5 days.
- Reheat or Refresh: Serve cold, or let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.
- Freeze: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and top with fresh whipped cream.
This cake is just as delicious the next day if not more!
Tía Maribel’s Flavor Secrets
Ah, here are a few little tricks from my kitchen to yours:
- Homemade Pumpkin Puree: If you have the time, roast and mash your own pumpkin it adds a beautiful, earthy sweetness.
- Boost the Spice: Add a pinch of allspice or cardamom if you love deep, cozy flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers’ Twist: Sprinkle chocolate chips in the batter before baking or drizzle chocolate syrup over the top before serving.
- Coconut Dream: Replace whole milk with coconut milk for a tropical spin that will transport your taste buds!
The secret, of course, is love and a joyful heart. ❤️
Make It Your Own – Fun Twists
This cake is wonderfully flexible make it your own fiesta of flavors!
🎃 Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter.
🍫 Mocha Magic: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder for a subtle coffee kick.
🍎 Fruity Fun: Add a layer of caramelized apples or pears on top before soaking.
🌶️ Spicy Surprise: A dash of cayenne adds a gentle heat that’s simply irresistible!
Let your creativity shine after all, cooking is art, cariño, and celebration.
Discover More Latin Flavors
Step into our Recipe Trends page and uncover bold tastes, family-loved classics, and dishes that bring pure joy to the table. With fresh recipes waiting for you each week, there’s always something new to explore so tie on your apron and enjoy the fun of cooking!
Pumpkin Spice Three Milks Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in vanilla, pumpkin puree, and spices.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk.
- Once the cake is done, let it cool for a few minutes, then poke holes all over the top.
- Slowly pour the milk mixture over the entire cake and let it soak for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve with whipped cream on top and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!FAQs About Pumpkin Spice Three Milks Cake
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes! Homemade puree gives a fresher flavor. Just make sure it’s thick, not watery.
2. How long should I let the cake soak?
Overnight soaking gives the best flavor and texture, but 4 hours will do in a pinch.
3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can! Freeze slices individually and thaw before serving for a make-ahead dessert.
4. Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely swap the milks for coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk. It’s still delicioso!
¡Listo para disfrutar!
And there you have it, mis queridos a Pumpkin Spice Three Milks Cake that warms hearts and homes alike. It’s the perfect dessert to share during fall or anytime you crave a sweet reminder of love and tradition.
So, light a candle, serve this cake with a smile, and remember: La vida es más dulce cuando se comparte. (Life is sweeter when it’s shared.)
Únete a la Fiesta with Feel the Recipes
Cooking is more than recipes it’s a way to celebrate life, family, and flavor! Tía Maribel shares bold Latin-inspired dishes, cooking tips, and behind-the-scenes moments from her kitchen every day.
Come be part of our growing community and keep the celebration going:
- Facebook – Join our family of food lovers
- Pinterest – Save colorful, festive recipes
- Instagram – Vibrant photos and joyful moments
- X (Twitter) – Quick tips and spicy inspiration