Boston Cream Pie

Boston Cream Pie is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that transports you back to simpler times. With its sweet, creamy filling and rich, smooth chocolate ganache, it’s no wonder this classic dessert has stood the test of time. Picture a soft, buttery sponge cake layered with smooth pastry cream, all crowned with a luscious chocolate glaze—every slice feels like a celebration. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself on a weekend, there’s something undeniably special about this dessert. The process of making it is almost as enjoyable as eating it. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get started on crafting your own homemade Boston Cream Pie that’s bound to impress everyone at the table!

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Boston Cream Pie
• Ingredients
• Preparing the Pastry Cream
• Making the Pastry Cream
• Tempering the Egg Mixture
• Cooking the Cream
• Straining and Cooling
• Baking the Cake
• Preheating and Preparing the Cake Pans
• Mixing the Dry Ingredients
• Beating the Eggs and Sugar
• Combining Ingredients
• Adding the Milk and Butter
• Baking the Cake
• Assembling the Cake
• Preparing the Components
• Layering the Cakes
• Making the Chocolate Ganache Glaze
• Heating the Cream
• Melting the Chocolate
• Glazing the Cake
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Storage Tips
• FAQs
• More Easy Desserts Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why This Recipe Works

Boston Cream Pie is an enduring classic that melds rich flavors and textures in a way that feels both indulgent and satisfying. The moist vanilla sponge cake acts as the perfect canvas for the velvety pastry cream and luscious chocolate ganache. Each element is well-balanced, ensuring a delightful experience with every bite. This recipe incorporates techniques that guarantee your cake will rise beautifully and layers will be easy to assemble.

Why You’ll Love This Boston Cream Pie

This Boston Cream Pie brings nostalgia and a sense of comfort to the table. It’s not just a dessert but a celebration of life’s moments—birthdays, dinners, and family gatherings. The combination of creamy pastry filling, airy sponge cake, and rich chocolate ganache makes each slice irresistible. It’s a cake that impresses not just with its elegance but with the wonderful flavors that evoke childhood memories and joyful occasions.

Ingredients

• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 6 egg yolks (at room temperature)
• 2 cups whole milk (divided)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 3 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¾ cup milk
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons corn syrup
• 5 ounces bittersweet chocolate

Preparing the Pastry Cream

Making the Pastry Cream

In a medium-sized heatproof bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, salt, and cornstarch. Whisk in the egg yolks and ¼ cup of the whole milk. Set the bowl aside. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, heat the remaining 1 ¾ cups of whole milk over medium heat until it just comes to a simmer. Remove it from heat.

Tempering the Egg Mixture

Slowly pour approximately ½ cup of the hot milk into the sugar/yolk mixture while constantly whisking to temper the eggs. Gradually add the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk.

Cooking the Cream

Return the saucepan to medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.

Straining and Cooling

For a smooth texture, strain the pastry cream through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Cover with plastic wrap directly touching the surface and place it in the fridge to cool for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.

Baking the Cake

Preheating and Preparing the Cake Pans

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Spray two 9” round cake pans with non-stick spray and line the bottom with parchment paper. Spray again with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal.

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside. This mix will provide the right structure for your cake.

Beating the Eggs and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar for 4 minutes until the mixture resembles a ribbon. This step incorporates air and adds lightness to your cake.

Combining Ingredients

Mix in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the flour mixture, beating on low speed until just combined. It’s important not to overmix at this stage.

Adding the Milk and Butter

In a microwave-safe measuring cup, combine the milk and butter. Microwave until the butter melts and the milk is heated through. Gradually add this warm mixture to the batter on low speed, ensuring it combines smoothly.

Baking the Cake

Divide the batter between the prepared cake pans. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean, approximately 28-33 minutes. Let cakes cool in the pans for 20 minutes, then turn them onto a wire rack for complete cooling.

Assembling the Cake

Preparing the Components

Remove the pastry cream from the refrigerator 20 minutes before assembly to soften it slightly. This will help in spreading it easily.

Layering the Cakes

Place one cooled cake on a serving platter. Spoon pastry cream onto the center and spread it out, leaving a ½” border. Carefully place the second cake (bottom-side up) on top and gently press down to create a stable layer. Refrigerate while preparing the ganache.

Making the Chocolate Ganache Glaze

Heating the Cream

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the heavy cream and corn syrup. Heat until steaming, about 1 minute, stirring every 20 seconds to prevent burning.

Melting the Chocolate

Add chopped bittersweet chocolate to the cream mixture and let sit for 5 minutes before stirring until smooth. The ganache will thicken as it cools, creating a perfect glaze.

Glazing the Cake

Pour the chocolate ganache over the center of the cake and spread it evenly, allowing some to drip down the sides. This adds a nice visual appeal. Refrigerate to set for at least 2 hours.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of Boston Cream Pie at room temperature for the best flavor. Consider pairing it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Tips for Success

• Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results in achieving a fluffy cake.
• Whisk the pastry cream continuously to prevent lumps from forming, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the ganache and risking a messy presentation.

Variations

• Substitute vanilla with almond extract in the pastry cream for a unique flavor twist that adds a strong depth.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as white or dark chocolate ganache, to cater to various taste preferences.

Storage Tips

Store leftover Boston Cream Pie in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it sit at room temperature for a short while before serving for the best taste. The flavors meld beautifully as it rests.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make the pastry cream in advance?
A1: Yes, it can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for convenience.

Q2: How can I ensure my cake layers are even?
A2: Weighing the batter for each pan can help achieve an even and consistent bake.

Q3: Is it possible to freeze Boston Cream Pie?
A3: While the cake can be frozen, it’s advisable to freeze it without the ganache, adding it fresh upon serving.

Q4: What can I use instead of bittersweet chocolate?
A4: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate can be good substitutes, offering different flavor profiles.

Q5: Should I serve this cake cold or at room temperature?
A5: For the best flavor experience, serve the cake at room temperature to allow all the flavors to shine through.

Boston Cream Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of history that brings joy and satisfaction with every bite. Embrace the delicious balance of sponge, cream, and chocolate today and impress your friends and family with this classic recipe. Whether for a celebration or a cozy night in, this dessert is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of baking, and savor the delightful flavors of Boston Cream Pie!

More Easy Desserts Recipes:

• Lemon Raspberry Cake
• Lemon Olive Oil Honey Cake
• Lemon Bars
• Fresh Rhubarb Pie

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