Boston Cream Pie Recipe (with Video)

Boston Cream Pie Recipe: Boston Cream Pie is a classic American dessert featuring soft sponge cake layers filled with smooth vanilla pastry cream and topped with a luscious chocolate ganache. Despite its name, it’s actually a cake, not a pie! This delicious treat has been around since the mid-1800s and remains a favorite among dessert lovers.

The dessert originated in Boston’s Parker House Hotel, where chefs first crafted this masterpiece. The reason it’s called a “pie” likely stems from the fact that, in the past, cakes and pies were baked in the same pans and often referred to interchangeably.

Ready to make your own Boston Cream Pie? Follow this step-by-step guide to create a stunning, bakery-quality dessert at home.

Ingredients Needed for Boston Cream Pie

Before you start baking, gather all the necessary ingredients. Each component requires a few specific ingredients, so let’s break them down.

For the Sponge Cake:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

For the Pastry Cream Filling:

• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 egg yolks
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Now that you have everything ready, let’s start making this delightful dessert!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Boston Cream Pie

Follow these steps carefully to achieve a perfectly layered and flavorful Boston Cream Pie.

Step 1: Preparing the Sponge Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy (about 5 minutes).
4. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Heat the milk and butter until warm but not boiling. Slowly mix this into the egg mixture.
6. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool completely before slicing it into two even layers.

Step 2: Making the Pastry Cream

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to steam (but not boil).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
5. Remove from heat, stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
6. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate until cooled.

Step 3: Preparing the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just starts to bubble.
2. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute.
3. Stir until smooth and glossy.
4. Add butter and mix well for a shiny finish.
5. Let the ganache cool slightly until it thickens but remains pourable.

Step 4: Assembling the Boston Cream Pie

1. Place one sponge cake layer on a serving plate.
2. Spread the chilled pastry cream evenly over the cake.
3. Gently place the second sponge layer on top.
4. Pour the slightly cooled chocolate ganache over the top, allowing it to drizzle down the sides for a dramatic effect.
5. Let the assembled cake sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the ganache to set.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serving Suggestions

• Serve your Boston Cream Pie as is, or dust with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
• Chill for at least an hour for the best flavor and texture.
• Slice and enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Boston Cream Pie

• Use room temperature eggs for a fluffier sponge.
• Chill the pastry cream for at least 2 hours before assembling to prevent it from running.
• Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring to control the drips.

Variations and Creative Twists

• Boston Cream Cupcakes: Make individual-sized treats with the same flavors.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or a gluten-free cake mix.
• Flavor Infusions: Add coffee or orange zest to the ganache for a fun twist.

FAQs about Boston Cream Pie Recipe

What is Boston Cream Pie?

Boston Cream Pie is a classic American dessert that, despite its name, is actually a cake. It consists of two layers of sponge cake filled with a rich custard or cream and topped with a layer of chocolate glaze.

Why is it called a pie when it’s a cake?

The name “Boston Cream Pie” dates back to the mid-19th century when pies and cakes were often cooked in the same pans, and the terms were used interchangeably. The dessert was originally created at the Parker House Hotel in Boston, hence the geographical reference.

What are the key ingredients in a Boston Cream Pie?

The essential components of a Boston Cream Pie include sponge cake, custard or vanilla cream filling, and a chocolate glaze. Ingredients for the sponge cake typically include flour, eggs, sugar, and butter. The custard filling is made from milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract, while the chocolate glaze usually involves chocolate, cream, and a sweetener.

How do I make the custard filling from scratch?

To make the custard filling, heat milk in a saucepan until it’s just about to boil. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until smooth. Gradually add some hot milk to the egg mixture to temper the eggs. Return the entire mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow it to cool before using it as a filling.

Can I make Boston Cream Pie in advance?

Yes, Boston Cream Pie can be made in advance. The cake layers can be baked and the custard prepared a day ahead. Assemble the cake with the custard filling and keep it refrigerated. Add the chocolate glaze a few hours before serving to ensure it looks glossy and fresh.

Is there a quick version of Boston Cream Pie?

For a quicker version of Boston Cream Pie, you can use store-bought sponge cake layers or a yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix for the custard, and pre-made chocolate ganache or frosting for the topping. This simplifies the process and saves time, although homemade components might offer a richer flavor.

Conclusion

Boston Cream Pie is a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. With a bit of patience and the right techniques, you can create this rich, creamy, and chocolatey delight at home. Whether for a special occasion or just a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to impress!