Imagine a dessert that captures the essence of creamy, sweet, and light—all packaged in convenient little jars. Mini Mason Jar Tres Leches Cakes offer a delightful twist on the classic tres leches cake, known for its moistness and richness. This version not only tastes amazing but also presents beautifully, making it a perfect choice for parties and gatherings. Each layer offers a taste of sweetness with whipped cream, milk-soaked cake, and fresh strawberries. The individual jars make serving easy, allowing everyone to enjoy their own delicious treat. Whether you’re looking for a fun dessert for a family dinner or a unique addition to a potluck, these mini cakes will surely impress. And let’s not forget how fun it is to eat cake from a jar! Plus, the rich flavors combined with fresh strawberries make it irresistible.
These lovely little cakes do not only tantalize your taste buds but are also simple to prepare! The combination of tres leches milk mixture soaks the cake, making every bite rich and creamy. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create this stunning dessert that brings smiles all around.
Why make this recipe
Mini Mason Jar Tres Leches Cakes are not only a treat for the eyes but are also incredibly delicious. These mini desserts can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy them whenever you like. Perfect for gatherings, they add a little flair to your dessert table. Plus, the combination of whipped cream and strawberries makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser. You’ll love how easy they are to make while still delivering that impressive wow factor!
How to make Mini Mason Jar Tres Leches Cakes
Ingredients
2 cups chopped fresh strawberries
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup butter (room temperature)
1 1/4 cups sugar
4 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup evaporated milk
3/4 cup condensed milk
1/2 cup whole milk (or lowfat)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
optional: 1 tablespoon sugar
2 cups whipping cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Directions
Heat the oven to 350 degrees F. In a small bowl, toss chopped strawberries with 2 teaspoons of sugar and set aside in the refrigerator. For the cake, sift together the flour and baking powder in a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, beat together the sugar and butter until pale yellow and fluffy, about 4 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating between each addition. Add the vanilla extract.
On low speed, slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and beat until fully combined. Pour the batter evenly into a greased and floured 8×8 square or 9-inch round pan. Note: There may be enough batter to fill a larger baking pan. Since you want thick cake pieces, it’s best to use a smaller pan. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center. Let the cake cool.
For the milk drizzle, whisk together all three milks with vanilla and optional sugar. Beat the whipping cream with granulated sugar until fluffy, about 4 minutes, and set aside. To prepare the mason jar desserts, cut the cake into 2-inch squares (or sized to fit in the mason jars). Press a piece into each jar and poke holes from top to bottom. Drizzle about a tablespoon of the milk mixture over the top, add a spoonful of strawberries, and finish with a dollop of whipped cream.
How to serve Mini Mason Jar Tres Leches Cakes
Serve these delightful jars straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat. You can also sprinkle extra fresh strawberries or add chocolate shavings on top for a fun twist. These mini desserts look great arranged on a serving platter, ensuring everyone can quickly grab their own jar.
How to store Mini Mason Jar Tres Leches Cakes
These cakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover them with lids or plastic wrap to keep them fresh. If you’re preparing them in advance, it’s best to add the whipped cream just before serving to keep it fluffy and light.
Tips to make Mini Mason Jar Tres Leches Cakes
Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. Do not skip the waiting time after baking—the cake needs to cool completely for the milk drizzle to set properly. Feel free to experiment with different berries or toppings to customize your jars. Lastly, give your cake the right amount of soaking; be careful not to drown it.
Variation
You can substitute strawberries with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or mangoes for a different taste. For an adult version, consider adding a splash of rum or bourbon into the milk mixture!
FAQs
Can I use low-fat milk in this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk; however, full-fat milk will result in a creamier taste.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cakes a day or two in advance and assemble them just before serving.
What if I don’t have mason jars?
You can use any small glass or dessert bowls to serve this cake if mason jars are unavailable.
Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?
You could use plant-based milk and substitute eggs with a flaxseed meal or egg replacer.
How long do these cakes last in the fridge?
They can last up to 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
Linda shares simple, family-friendly desserts with a playful twist — mostly cakes and cookies you can bake on busy days.
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