Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix is the dessert that says “comfort meets celebration.” Imagine a moist pumpkin cake soaked in creamy milk, topped with clouds of whipped cream, and dusted with cinnamon a dessert so cozy, it feels like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket by the fire. It’s quick to make, thanks to cake mix magic, yet rich and elegant enough for any fiesta. Every bite tastes like fall, family, and love all in one forkful.
The Story Behind Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix
Ah, mis amores, when the air turns crisp and the leaves paint the world in gold, I can’t help but think of abuela’s kitchen. The scent of cinnamon, cloves, and pumpkin filled every corner of our home. She would hum “Cielito Lindo” while whisking her tres leches, and somehow, every dish she made carried a bit of that same joy.
One chilly evening, she handed me a slice of pumpkin tres leches it was sweet, soft, and soaked in love. “Mija,” she said, “good food keeps memories alive.” That’s why this dessert isn’t just a recipe it’s a piece of our family’s heart. And now, I’m passing it to you, so you can share that warmth at your table too.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Tres Leches
This Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix is pure magic a beautiful blend of creamy, spicy, and sweet that delights everyone at the table.
- Super easy to make (no fancy tools needed!)
- Perfectly moist, tender, and creamy
- Infused with fall flavors pumpkin, cinnamon, and spice
- Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights in
- Guaranteed to make everyone say “¡Ay, qué rico!”
One bite and you’ll understand why this dessert has become a holiday favorite across generations.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix
Gather your ingredients, cariño, and let’s get baking!
- 1 box white cake mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 eggs
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 12 oz evaporated milk
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (or 10 oz if you prefer less sweet)
- 6 oz whole milk
- 1 tsp cinnamon (or more pumpkin spice)
- 8 oz heavy whipping cream (or 16 oz for extra topping)
- 2 tbsp sugar (or powdered sugar)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice, for garnish
Simple, cozy, and filled with flavor just how abuela liked it!
Step-by-Step: How to Make Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let that warmth fill your kitchen it’s the start of something sweet!
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Grease just the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil, butter, or spray. No need to grease the sides we want the cake to rise beautifully.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, melted butter, eggs, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice. Skip the water the pumpkin gives all the moisture you need! Beat with a mixer for about 2 minutes, until smooth and luscious.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Take a deep breath your kitchen will smell like heaven!
Step 5: Prepare the Tres Leches Mixture
While the cake cools (about 20 minutes), whisk together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk in a bowl. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for that extra autumn touch.
Step 6: Soak the Cake
Once the cake is cooled, poke holes all over with a fork or skewer. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, letting it soak in gradually. Be patient every drop makes the cake more tender and dreamy.
Step 7: Chill Time
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours overnight if you can resist the temptation! This lets the milks infuse the cake completely.
Step 8: Whip It Good
In a chilled mixing bowl, beat heavy whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. It should look like fluffy clouds of joy!
Step 9: Decorate and Serve
Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake. Sprinkle cinnamon or pumpkin spice on top, and there you have it your Pumpkin Tres Leches masterpiece!
How to Serve Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix
Cut the cake into squares and serve it chilled, just like abuela did. Use a small spatula to lift each creamy slice, making sure to get some of that sweet milk from the bottom it’s the best part!
For a festive touch:
- Add caramel drizzle or a dusting of cocoa powder.
- Garnish with candied pecans or a cinnamon stick.
- Pair it with café de olla or spiced hot chocolate.
When your family takes that first bite, watch their eyes light up that’s the joy of homemade love.
How to Keep Pumpkin Tres Leches Fresh
If you somehow have leftovers (¡milagro!), store them properly to keep every bite delicious.
- Refrigerate: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Serve chilled: This dessert tastes best cold straight from the fridge!
- Do not freeze: Tres leches doesn’t like the freezer; it can lose its creamy texture.
Tía Maribel’s Flavor Secrets
Lean in, mi familia I’m sharing my special touches:
- Add Nutmeg or Cloves: A tiny pinch deepens the flavor and adds warmth.
- Use Half Brown Sugar in the Whip: It gives the cream a caramel kiss.
- Swap in a Spice Cake Mix: For a stronger flavor it’s divine!
- Drizzle Dulce de Leche: Before serving, add a little drizzle on top. It’s dessert perfection!
And remember desserts made with cariño always taste better.
Make It Your Own – Fun Twists
Cooking is about creativity, so let’s add a little flair to your Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix!
- Nutty Pumpkin Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Chocolate Pumpkin Dream: Mix in mini chocolate chips or drizzle with ganache.
- Tropical Twist: Add shredded coconut and top with pineapple chunks.
- Elegant Touch: Dust with cocoa and serve with espresso for a fancy dinner party finale.
There’s no wrong way to make this cake only delicious ways!
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Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Grease just the bottom of a 9×13 dish with baking spray, oil, or butter.
- In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, melted butter, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and pumpkin puree until smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter into the greased pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for about 20 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine the evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk. Whisk to combine.
- Poke holes all over the cooled cake with a fork or skewer.
- Slowly pour the milk mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Chill your mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the freezer for a few minutes.
- Add heavy cream, vanilla, and sugar to the bowl. Whisk until stiff peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream over the top of the cake.
- Sprinkle with ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!FAQs About Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix
Can I use a gluten-free cake mix?
Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free mix the results are just as moist and heavenly.
How long should I chill it?
At least 4 hours, but overnight gives the best texture and flavor.
Can I use fresh pumpkin?
Of course! Just cook, mash, and drain it well before using the flavor is lovely and natural.
Can I make it less sweet?
Use only 10 ounces of condensed milk and unsweetened whipped cream for balance.
Can I add toppings?
Absolutely! Toasted nuts, fruit, or a light caramel drizzle all add a festive flair.
¡Listo para disfrutar!
And there you have it, mis queridos a Pumpkin Tres Leches with Cake Mix that’s as comforting as abuela’s hug and as festive as a holiday fiesta. Moist, creamy, and irresistibly spiced, it’s the perfect dessert to share with those you love most.
So gather your familia, grab your forks, and celebrate the sweetness of life one bite at a time. ¡Buen provecho y feliz otoño!
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