Ultimate Boston Cream Pie Recipe You Need

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Treat yourself to a delightful twist on a classic dessert with this Ultimate Boston Cream Pie recipe. This easy-to-follow cake combines fluffy vanilla layers with a rich chocolate ganache and a silky custard filling, making it the perfect centerpiece for any occasion or family gathering. Elevate your baking skills with this scrumptious dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.

Erin Wallace

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:38:24.663Z

This Boston Cream Pie is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for your taste buds. The layers of fluffy vanilla cake paired with a smooth chocolate ganache create an unforgettable dessert experience.

The History of Boston Cream Pie

Boston Cream Pie isn't actually a pie at all, but rather a delightful cake that has earned its name due to its unique two-layered structure. Originating in the late 19th century, it was first created by French chef M. Wolfe at the Parker House Hotel in Boston. This dessert quickly became a favorite among locals and tourists alike, earning its place as Massachusetts' official dessert in 1996.

Traditionally, Boston Cream Pie consists of a sponge cake layered with a rich vanilla custard and topped with chocolate glaze. Its delightful combination of textures and flavors has made it a timeless classic, enjoyed on festive occasions and family gatherings. As you dive into this Ultimate Boston Cream Pie recipe, you're not only indulging in a scrumptious treat but also participating in a piece of culinary history.

Tips for the Perfect Cake

To achieve the fluffy and light texture of your vanilla cake, be sure to accurately measure your ingredients. Using the proper flour and ensuring that your butter is at room temperature will greatly affect the outcome. Consider investing in a kitchen scale for precision, which is crucial for baking success.

When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can cause the cake to become dense and tough. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely before slicing it in half; this will ensure that the custard and ganache don't slide off and maintain their structure.

For even more flavor, try infusing your custard with a hint of lemon zest or using high-quality chocolate for your ganache. Experimenting with these subtle changes can elevate your Boston Cream Pie to a whole new level!

Ingredients

Vanilla Cake

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Custard Filling

  • 2 cups milk
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup cornstarch
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Ganache

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • ½ cup heavy cream

Gather all the ingredients to get started on your Ultimate Boston Cream Pie!

Instructions

Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla, followed by the dry ingredients, and mix well. Fold in milk until combined. Pour into a greased cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Make the Custard Filling

In a saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and cornstarch. Heat until thickened, then add egg yolks, butter, and vanilla. Cook for another minute, then let cool.

Prepare the Ganache

Heat heavy cream until just boiling, then pour over chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and glossy.

Assemble the Pie

Once the cake layers are cooled, slice in half horizontally. Spread custard filling between layers, then top with chocolate ganache. Chill before serving.

Enjoy your Ultimate Boston Cream Pie with friends and family!

Storing Your Boston Cream Pie

If you're not serving your Ultimate Boston Cream Pie immediately, store it in the refrigerator. The cool temperature helps maintain the integrity of the custard and ganache while keeping the cake moist. Use a cake keeper or cover with plastic wrap to protect it from absorbing other odors.

This dessert is best enjoyed within a few days of preparation. However, if you find yourself with leftovers, don't worry; it often tastes even better on the second day as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to keep it well-covered to preserve freshness.

Why Pairing Matters

As luxurious as Boston Cream Pie is on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can enhance the overall experience. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can add richness and an extra layer of flavor, while fresh berries can introduce a refreshing tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cake.

Consider serving it alongside a cup of coffee or a rich hot chocolate. The bitterness of these beverages can provide a delightful balance to the cake's sweetness, making each bite more enjoyable. Whether it's for a casual family dinner or a special celebration, the right pairings can turn a simple dessert into a memorable culinary experience.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

Absolutely! Dark, milk, or white chocolate can be used based on your preference.

→ How long can I store the pie?

Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for the best taste.

Ultimate Boston Cream Pie Recipe You Need

Treat yourself to a delightful twist on a classic dessert with this Ultimate Boston Cream Pie recipe. This easy-to-follow cake combines fluffy vanilla layers with a rich chocolate ganache and a silky custard filling, making it the perfect centerpiece for any occasion or family gathering. Elevate your baking skills with this scrumptious dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cooking Duration40 minutes
Overall Time1 hour 10 minutes

Created by: Erin Wallace

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

Vanilla Cake

  1. 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 cup granulated sugar
  3. ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  4. 2 large eggs
  5. 1 cup milk
  6. 2 teaspoons baking powder
  7. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  8. ½ teaspoon salt

Custard Filling

  1. 2 cups milk
  2. ½ cup granulated sugar
  3. ⅓ cup cornstarch
  4. 2 large egg yolks
  5. 2 tablespoons butter
  6. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Ganache

  1. 1 cup chocolate chips
  2. ½ cup heavy cream

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla, followed by the dry ingredients, and mix well. Fold in milk until combined. Pour into a greased cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Step 02

In a saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and cornstarch. Heat until thickened, then add egg yolks, butter, and vanilla. Cook for another minute, then let cool.

Step 03

Heat heavy cream until just boiling, then pour over chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 04

Once the cake layers are cooled, slice in half horizontally. Spread custard filling between layers, then top with chocolate ganache. Chill before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Protein: 6g