Boston Cream Pie is a classic dessert that has been loved for ages. Even though the name suggests otherwise, Boston Cream Pie is certainly not a pie, but a mouth-watering sponge cake sandwiched with decadent vanilla custard and glazed with chocolate. The contrasting elements of flavor and creativity easily make this dessert the center of attraction, whatever the event may be it a home affair or a grand one. Apart from being a creamy cake, the Boston Cream Pie has a historical significance that touches the hearts of American society making people treasure such cuisine.
Origins of Boston Cream Pie
The history behind the Boston Cream Pie can be dated back 19th century when it was invented by the Chef M. Sanzian at the Parker House Hotel located in Boston, Massachusets. At first, it was a pie that was made of a butter French sponge with premixed custard inserted and chocolate icing on the side. It was referred to as a pie because during that epoch cakes and pies were placed in similar molds and the two terms were used interchangeably. So, in 1996, the Boston Cream Pie became such a symbol that it was named the official dessert of the state of Massachusetts.
What Makes Boston Cream Pie Special?
Another reason why many find Boston Cream Pie appealing is the way the flavors and textures harmoniously blend together. The sponge cake which is light and fluffy acts as a perfect base for the rich and creamy vanilla custard that is filled in. This filling also provides richness and depth which makes for a great experience with every bite. Last but not least, there is the rich chocolate glaze which is added as a finishing touch. It also enhances the taste of the dessert but currently makes the dish look very elegant. Most children and adults would agree that a soft cake layered with custard and topped with chocolate is simply irresistible, hence Boston Cream Pie.
Why You Should Try Making Boston Cream Pie
It might feel like Mission Impossible to whip up a Boston Cream Pie and to put it, it’s so easy if you follow the right process. Sure, the recipe consists of the cake itself, the pastry cream, and the ganache which are three components – but each one is very simple. The cake is a simple sponge cake made using the items found in a pantry, the custard consists of milk eggs, and sugar, and the chocolate coating is made with just cream and chocolate. The secret is to allow each component time to cool and set, hence building a perfectly constructed Boston Cream Pie.
Apart from being an irresistible dessert, Boston Cream Pie is a dessert that can be prepared beforehand making it excellent for social events such as parties. The cake can be baked, and the custard prepared weeks before, then the pie assembled before serving. This makes the process very easy and comprehensible even to a beginner baker.
Serving and Enjoying Boston Cream Pie
Generally, after putting the Boston Cream Pie together, it is served at a slightly reduced temperature, so that the pastry cream will have a chance to firm up as the chocolate glaze hardens. It is okay to also decorate the pie with some fresh berries or a small blob of whipped cream. Every delicious mouthful of Boston Cream Pie presents cake, cream, and chocolate proportions that leave you and your guests wanting more.
Try More Recipe:- Best Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe: Easy, Creamy, and Delicious
Delicious Homemade Boston Cream Pie Recipe for Special Occasions
Description
Boston Cream Pie This all-American food comprises soft sponge cake layered with vanilla custard filling and topped off with chocolate. Despite the term ‘pie,’ this dish, however, does not resemble a pie in any manner; every spoonful is rather oozing with deep rich, and moist flavor. This dessert is most suitable for family or friends hangouts - bring it out to astound your guests!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
For the Vanilla Custard Filling:
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
Optional Ingredients:
Instructions
-
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans and spread it smoothly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
-
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard
In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to steam (don’t boil).
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch together until smooth.
Slowly pour a little of the hot milk into the egg mixture while constantly whisking to temper the eggs.
Pour the tempered mixture back into the saucepan and continue whisking over medium heat until the mixture thickens and begins to boil.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate until completely cool.
-
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache
In a heatproof bowl, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream.
Heat in the microwave for 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.
-
Step 4: Assemble the Boston Cream Pie
Place one of the cake layers on a serving plate. Spread the chilled vanilla custard evenly over the top.
Gently place the second cake layer on top of the custard.
Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Let the Boston Cream Pie sit for about 30 minutes to allow the ganache to set before serving.
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 380kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Saturated Fat 12g60%
- Cholesterol 95mg32%
- Sodium 280mg12%
- Protein 5g10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate if you prefer a richer taste for the Boston Cream Pie.
- Make sure the cake cools completely before assembling to prevent the custard from melting.