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Coconut Pecan Tres Leches Cake

2023-02-20 - Written by: Emma Taylor

Coconut Pecan Tres Leches Cake

A moist coconut cake soaked in tres leches and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel.

Coconut Pecan Tres Leches Cake

Servings


8-10 people

Ingredients


For the cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the tres leches:

  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk

For the streusel:

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions


Step 1: Prepare the streusel

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt.
  2. Add the chopped pecans to the bowl and stir until well combined.
  3. Pour in the melted butter and mix until crumbly.

Step 2: Make the cake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the unsweetened shredded coconut, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
  4. Mix until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble and bake the cake

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
  2. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 4: Make the tres leches

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, heavy cream, and whole milk.
  2. Pour the tres leches mixture over the cooled cake.

Step 5: Top with streusel and serve

  1. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the top of the cake.
  2. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the cake to absorb the liquid.
  3. Slice and serve!

Notes


  • Make sure to let the cake sit for at least 30 minutes after pouring the tres leches mixture to allow it to absorb properly.
  • The streusel can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • This recipe makes one 9x13-inch coconut pecan tres leches cake.