These Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes are a perfect balance of soft, sponge-like cupcakes drenched in a rich coconut milk mixture. Topped with whipped coconut cream and garnished with shredded coconut, these cupcakes are both indulgent and light.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize the coconut flavor to your liking. Whether you prefer a stronger coconut taste or a more subtle hint, these cupcakes can be made to suit any preference. They’re perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or just when you need a comforting dessert to end your day on a sweet note.
Full recipe:
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Ingredients:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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3 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup coconut milk
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1/4 cup whole milk
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1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
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1/2 cup evaporated milk
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1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
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In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in batches, alternating with the coconut milk and whole milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
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Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
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Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and 1/4 cup of coconut milk.
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Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, use a fork to poke several holes into the top of each cupcake.
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Slowly pour the milk mixture over each cupcake, allowing it to soak in. Let the cupcakes sit for about 15 minutes to fully absorb the milk.
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Top with whipped cream and shredded coconut before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 12 cupcakes
Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert
Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes are an irresistible and tropical variation of the traditional Mexican tres leches cake. This dessert is known for its moist, sponge-like texture, soaked in a combination of three different types of milk: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and regular milk. However, in this version, the addition of coconut milk elevates the flavor, giving these cupcakes a rich and unique coconut-infused twist.
Whether you are a fan of classic tres leches cake or simply looking to try something new, these Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes will quickly become your go-to treat for any occasion. The delicate, slightly sweet coconut flavor combined with the rich texture of the cake and the airy whipped cream topping creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. It’s a dessert that is sure to impress both family and friends.
The History of Tres Leches Cake
Tres Leches cake originated in Latin America and is particularly popular in countries like Mexico, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. The cake is called “tres leches” because of the three types of milk used in the soaking liquid. This cake is typically made with a simple sponge cake that absorbs the sweet milk mixture, giving it a soft, pudding-like texture. It has become a favorite dessert in many Latin American households and restaurants worldwide, known for its rich flavor and luxurious mouthfeel.
The Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes, however, put a fun and modern spin on this traditional recipe by turning it into individual cupcakes. The cupcakes are light and fluffy, with the milk mixture soaking in and creating a delightful coconut-infused treat. These cupcakes bring the traditional dessert to new heights, offering a convenient and fun way to serve up a beloved classic.
Why Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes Are the Best Choice for Your Next Dessert
Perfectly Moist and Flavorful
One of the best qualities of Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes is their incredibly moist texture. The use of three milks (sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and coconut milk) creates a moist, spongy texture that melts in your mouth. The coconut milk adds a richness that is both subtle and satisfying, infusing each bite with a tropical essence that makes the cupcakes extra special. The best part? The milk soak works perfectly in individual cupcakes, ensuring that each one is just as moist and flavorful as the next.
Versatile and Customizable
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. While coconut is the star ingredient, you can adjust the level of coconut flavor according to your preference. For a more intense coconut flavor, feel free to add extra shredded coconut into the batter or even incorporate a bit of coconut extract. The whipped coconut cream topping can also be customized by using a variety of non-dairy creams or plant-based milks, making this a fantastic option for those with dairy allergies or following a vegan diet.
Great for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a birthday, a holiday, a special family gathering, or just an ordinary day when you want to treat yourself, Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes are an excellent choice. Their unique coconut twist makes them perfect for tropical-themed parties or summer events. But even on cold winter nights, these cupcakes can bring a little sunshine to your day, evoking feelings of warmth and comfort.
Easy to Make and Serve
Unlike the traditional tres leches cake, which requires slicing and serving, these cupcakes are individual servings that are easy to grab and enjoy. This makes them perfect for parties, picnics, or any event where you need something portable. No more worrying about cutting slices neatly; these cupcakes are already portioned, making them much easier to serve to a crowd.
The Health Benefits of Coconut in This Recipe
Coconut is not only a delicious ingredient but also provides several health benefits. While the recipe calls for sweetened shredded coconut, which adds some sugar, the coconut milk in this dessert brings added nutritional benefits. Coconut milk is rich in healthy fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which have been linked to increased energy levels, improved metabolism, and even weight management. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium.
While the cupcakes themselves are not a health food, incorporating coconut can add nutritional value compared to traditional cakes that don’t contain this superfood. When enjoyed in moderation, Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes can be a fun, indulgent treat that still offers some health benefits thanks to the coconut content.
Tips for Making the Perfect Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes
1. Be Patient When Soaking the Cupcakes
For best results, allow the cupcakes to soak in the milk mixture for at least 15 minutes. The longer the cupcakes soak, the more they absorb the milk and become even more moist and delicious. Be sure not to rush this process as it contributes to the cupcakes’ signature texture.
2. Customize the Frosting
While coconut whipped cream is the traditional topping, feel free to experiment with other options. A simple whipped cream topping with a dash of vanilla or cinnamon can complement the coconut flavor without overwhelming it. You can also add a small amount of powdered sugar to the whipped cream for a sweeter topping or incorporate toasted coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture.
3. Make it Dairy-Free or Vegan
If you want to make these cupcakes dairy-free or vegan, you can substitute coconut milk for the whole milk and use non-dairy whipped cream instead of regular whipped cream. Make sure to also substitute the eggs with a vegan egg replacement like flax eggs or chia eggs to make this treat completely plant-based.
The Secret to the Perfect Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes: Quality Ingredients
To truly elevate this dessert, the quality of your ingredients matters. Use high-quality coconut milk and fresh, sweetened shredded coconut for the best flavor. When selecting the milk, choose full-fat coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture. Also, make sure your sweetened condensed milk is of good quality, as this is one of the key components that makes these cupcakes so deliciously sweet and moist.
Using the best ingredients will ensure your cupcakes have a rich flavor profile that sets them apart from other dessert recipes. Remember that fresh, high-quality ingredients make a significant difference when baking, and these Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes are no exception.
Conclusion
Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes are a perfect fusion of tradition and innovation, taking the beloved Mexican dessert to a whole new level with the addition of coconut milk and shredded coconut. Their moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture, combined with the subtle coconut flavor, makes them a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a tropical-themed party, a summer picnic, or just as a special indulgence for yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize the flavor and presentation, making it a truly delightful and memorable dessert. Try making Coconut Tres Leches Cupcakes the next time you need a sweet treat—your taste buds will thank you!
