A no-bake tres leches parfait layers angel food cake with a three-milk mixture and whipped cream, delivering classic tres leches flavor without baking.
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Instructions
1
Chill large mixing bowl and whisks in the fridge or freezer
2
Gather angel food cake and cut into ½ inch cubes. Set aside
3
Remove bowl and whisks from the fridge or freezer. Add 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, 1 tsp of vanilla extract and ½ cup of confectioners sugar. Whisk on low speed for 1 minute and increase to medium speed. After 2 minutes, increase to high speed and continue to whisk until you form stiff peaks. Feel free to reduce speed if cream begins to create a mess on the counter. Once you finish making whipped cream, set aside in the refrigerator
4
In a small or medium pitcher, combine evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream or half and half, and vanilla extract. Feel free to add cinnamon if you’d like. Set aside
5
In a medium or large cup, add 1 layer of cubed angel food cake. Then add tres leches mixtures, berries, and whipped cream. Continue to build layers until the cup is full. Build all of the parfaits and chill in the fridge for 1 hour before serving
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Tips & Notes
Pro tips
Cube the angel food cake into bite-sized pieces to help it absorb the milk mixture evenly.
Chill the evaporated and condensed milk before mixing to keep the parfait cool and prevent the whipped cream from melting.
Layer gradually in a glass dish or individual cups so the cake soaks up milk without becoming soggy at the bottom.
Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks just before assembly; overwhipping turns it grainy.
Substitutions
Heavy whipping cream → heavy cream (slightly less fat, same result)
Evaporated milk → whole milk (use less, as evaporated milk is thicker)
Confectioners sugar → granulated sugar (blend to fine powder first for smoother whipped cream)
Storage & make-ahead
Refrigerate covered for up to 2 days. Assemble up to 24 hours ahead for best flavor development.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the parfait up to 24 hours before serving. Cover and refrigerate. The cake will absorb the milk mixture and flavors deepen overnight.
What can I substitute for angel food cake?
Pound cake, vanilla sponge cake, or store-bought ladyfingers work well. Avoid dense cakes that won't absorb the milk properly.
How do I know when the whipped cream is ready?
Whip heavy cream with confectioners sugar until stiff peaks form—when peaks stand upright when beaters are lifted.
Can I skip the cinnamon?
Yes, it's optional. For extra flavor, add vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg instead.
How should I store leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Do not freeze, as the texture of whipped cream will break down.