Oh, my goodness, I have been bursting to share this recipe with you! If you’ve ever fallen head over heels for the moist, dreamy texture of a classic Tres Leches cake and also adore the warm, gooey embrace of a fresh cinnamon roll, then prepare yourself.
I’ve found a way to combine these two loves into one truly unforgettable dessert: my incredibly easy Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.
This isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. I’m talking about fluffy, spiced cinnamon rolls saturated with a sweet, creamy three-milk mixture, baked to golden perfection, and then topped with a luscious homemade cream cheese frosting that takes it all over the top. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s guaranteed to be a new favorite on your Delish Map.
Jump To
What are Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls? A Heavenly Combination
Imagine your favorite fluffy cinnamon roll. Now, picture that roll soaking up a rich, sweet blend of three milks, becoming incredibly moist and tender with every bite. That’s exactly what Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls are all about. It’s a delightful fusion, borrowing the best elements from both worlds.
I love how the traditional cinnamon swirl provides warmth, while the tres leches mixture adds an unparalleled creamy richness and a unique texture.
The result is a dessert that’s comforting, deeply flavorful, and surprisingly light despite its indulgence. Each bite is a harmonious blend of spice, sweetness, and milky goodness. If you enjoy the taste of cinnamon, you might also love these Remarkable Cinnamon Sugar Blondies: A Delicious Recipe.
Understanding “Tres Leches”: A Sweet History
“Tres Leches” simply translates to “three milks” in Spanish, and it refers to a popular sponge cake soaked in a mixture of three different kinds of milk. This beloved dessert is a staple in Latin American cuisine, known for its incredibly moist crumb and rich, sweet flavor.
The three milks typically include evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. Each milk plays a unique role, contributing to the distinctive sweetness, creaminess, and luscious texture that defines the classic Tres Leches cake.
It’s this beautiful concept that I’ve brought over to our beloved cinnamon rolls today.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls Recipe (Delish Map’s Secret!)
I really believe this particular Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls Recipe stands out, and I’m excited to tell you why. My version takes all the hassle out of baking from scratch without sacrificing any of the incredible flavor or texture. I’ve focused on making this dessert accessible and utterly delightful.
I use store-bought cinnamon rolls as a brilliant shortcut, allowing you to get this amazing treat on the table faster. The magic truly happens when they soak up that irresistible three-milk mixture, transforming them into something truly extraordinary.
Plus, I’ve included my special homemade cream cheese frosting recipe that perfectly complements the rich, milky rolls. It’s a game-changer, trust me! For another quick and amazing treat, explore this Easy Apple Brownies: The Ultimate Delicious Dessert.
Essential Equipment for Your Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls
You don’t need a lot of fancy tools to create these heavenly rolls. I bet you already have most of these in your kitchen drawer! Here’s what I gather when I’m ready to bake:
- 9×13 baking pan
- Whisk
- Medium mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons (if making homemade frosting)
- Electric mixer (optional, for homemade frosting)
The Best Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls Recipe (Using Store-Bought Rolls!)
I’m so thrilled to share my go-to Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls Recipe with you. It’s simple, satisfying, and uses a fantastic shortcut to save you time.
Ingredients for Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls
Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to a truly amazing treat.
- 1 can of premade cinnamon rolls (8ct)
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions for Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls
Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have delicious Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls ready in no time. I promise you, the aroma alone is worth it!
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Place cinnamon rolls in the pan, spacing evenly. I try to give them a little room to expand as they bake.
- Whisk the evaporated milk, condensed milk and cream together then pour over the cinnamon rolls. Ensure the mixture is evenly distributed over and around the rolls. I make sure every roll gets a good coating.
- Soak for 30 minutes, if desired, but not necessary. This step allows for deeper absorption, making the rolls incredibly moist. If I have the time, I always do this!
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The rolls should be slightly puffed and the milk mixture should be bubbling around the edges.
- Use the icing from the cinnamon roll package to put on top of the rolls when slightly cooled. Applying it while slightly warm helps it melt beautifully and seep into every nook and cranny.
Elevate Your Rolls: Homemade Tres Leches Cream Cheese Frosting
While the packet frosting is fine, I truly believe a homemade cream cheese frosting makes these Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls extra special. This recipe is infused with a touch of the tres leches milk mixture, giving it an even richer, creamier flavor that pairs perfectly with the rolls.
Ingredients for Tres Leches Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or leftover tres leches milk mixture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions for Tres Leches Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Add the heavy cream (or tres leches milk mixture), vanilla extract, and pinch of salt. Beat on medium-high speed for another 1-2 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more cream; if too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
- Once the cinnamon rolls are slightly cooled, generously spread this luscious frosting over them.
Pro Tips for Perfect Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls Every Time
I’ve made these rolls countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way to ensure they turn out perfectly every single time. Here are my top tips for you:
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your rolls. Baking them just until golden brown ensures they stay incredibly moist, not dry. Overbaking can toughen them up, and we want them tender!
- Even Milk Distribution is Key: When you pour the tres leches mixture, try to get it as evenly distributed as possible. This ensures every single roll soaks up that delicious goodness and no one gets left out.
- Soak if You Can: While optional, I highly recommend the 30-minute soak. It allows the rolls to absorb more of the milk mixture before baking, leading to an even moister and more flavorful result.
- Frost While Warm: Applying the frosting to slightly cooled, but still warm, rolls is a game-changer. It melts just a tiny bit, creating a glaze-like effect that adheres beautifully and seeps into the swirls.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Your Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls
These rolls are definitely best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but I understand life happens! Here’s how I handle leftovers and make-ahead planning. If you are planning a brunch, visit our breakfast and brunch category for complimentary recipes.
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the rolls and pour the milk mixture over them, then cover the baking pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since they will be starting cold.
- Storage: Store any leftover Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for upgto 3-4 days. Because of the dairy content, they need to stay chilled.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply pop individual rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through. You can also cover the pan loosely with foil and warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls
Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned, and that’s totally okay! I’m here to help you troubleshoot any bumps in the road.
- “My rolls are soggy!” This can happen if they’re oversaturated or underbaked. Make sure your oven temperature is accurate and bake them until golden brown. The 30-minute soak is a sweet spot; longer might be too much for some rolls.
- “The milk isn’t fully absorbing.” This often indicates the rolls weren’t baked long enough, or they were too dense to begin with. Ensure they’re puffed and golden. You can gently press on a roll with a fork after baking to help encourage absorption.
- “Some rolls are drier than others.” This usually comes down to uneven milk distribution. Next time, try to swirl the pan gently after pouring to ensure the milk settles evenly around all the rolls. Also, ensure they are spaced evenly in the pan so they bake uniformly.
Customization and Flavor Variations for Your Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls
I love to play around with flavors, and these Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls are a fantastic canvas for creativity! Here are some of my favorite ways to customize them:
| Variation Idea | Description |
|---|---|
| Orange Zest Infusion | Add 1 teaspoon of fresh orange zest to the tres leches milk mixture for a bright, citrusy twist. |
| Toasted Coconut Topping | Sprinkle toasted shredded coconut over the frosting for added texture and a tropical flavor. |
| Cardamom Spice | Whisk ¼ teaspoon of ground cardamom into the tres leches milk mixture for an exotic, fragrant warmth. |
| Almond Extract Boost | Add ½ teaspoon of almond extract to the tres leches milk mixture for a subtle, nutty undertone. |
| Fresh Berries | Garnish with fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries right before serving for a pop of color and tartness. |
What to Serve with Your Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls
These cinnamon rolls are rich and decadent on their own, but I always think about how to create a complete and delightful experience around them.
For a perfect morning treat, I love serving these with a strong cup of coffee, a creamy latte, or a refreshing glass of iced horchata. If I’m thinking about a brunch spread, they pair wonderfully with fresh fruit salad, a light yogurt parfait, or even a savory egg dish like a frittata to balance the sweetness. They’re also absolutely divine with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an ultimate dessert experience.
FAQs About Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls
I often get questions about this recipe, and I’m happy to answer them for you!
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls for this recipe?
Absolutely, you can! While I designed this recipe for ease using store-bought rolls, homemade cinnamon rolls would be even more decadent. Just be aware that their absorption rate might vary slightly, so keep an eye on them. You might need to adjust the soaking time slightly.
How long should I soak the cinnamon rolls in the tres leches mixture?
I recommend soaking them for 30 minutes, if you have the time. This allows for excellent milk absorption and yields a super moist roll. If you’re short on time, you can skip the soak, and they’ll still be delicious, just slightly less saturated. For an even deeper soak, you can refrigerate them overnight.
What are the three milks typically used in Tres Leches?
In my recipe, I use evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. Evaporated milk provides a unique richness, sweetened condensed milk offers intense sweetness and a thick texture, and heavy cream adds a luxurious, creamy mouthfeel. This combination is truly magical!
Will my Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls get soggy?
My goal is to achieve moistness, not sogginess! If you follow my recipe’s instructions for soaking time and baking duration, you should get a perfectly moist, tender roll. The key is not to over-soak or underbake. The rolls should absorb the milk mixture, but still hold their shape beautifully.
I truly hope you’re as excited as I am to try this incredible Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls Recipe! It’s a testament to how simple ingredients and a little creativity can transform a classic into something new and exciting.
I just adore how the familiar comfort of a cinnamon roll meets the luscious creaminess of Tres Leches cake in every single bite. Keep in mind that one baked cinnamon roll contains about 16.83g carbs.
I truly believe this recipe will bring so much warmth and joy to your kitchen, just as it does to mine. So, gather your ingredients, follow my simple steps, and prepare to fall in love.
I can’t wait to hear what you think! Please leave a comment below with your thoughts or any questions you might have. Happy baking!
Follow us on Pinterest for indulgent twists on classic desserts, quick baking hacks, and sweet recipes that bring comfort and joy, like these heavenly Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls!
Tres Leches Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Place cinnamon rolls in the pan, spacing evenly. I try to give them a little room to expand as they bake.
- Whisk the evaporated milk, condensed milk and cream together then pour over the cinnamon rolls. Ensure the mixture is evenly distributed over and around the rolls. I make sure every roll gets a good coating.
- Soak for 30 minutes, if desired, but not necessary. This step allows for deeper absorption, making the rolls incredibly moist. If I have the time, I always do this!
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The rolls should be slightly puffed and the milk mixture should be bubbling around the edges.
- Use the icing from the cinnamon roll package to put on top of the rolls when slightly cooled. Applying it while slightly warm helps it melt beautifully and seep into every nook and cranny.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Add the heavy cream (or tres leches milk mixture), vanilla extract, and pinch of salt. Beat on medium-high speed for another 1-2 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more cream; if too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
- Once the cinnamon rolls are slightly cooled, generously spread this luscious frosting over them.
