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History

The Boston Cream Pie, originating in 19th-century Boston, is a classic American dessert crafted by French chef M. Sanzian at the Parker House Hotel. Comprising two sponge cake layers filled with creamy vanilla custard and topped with chocolate glaze, it remains an iconic symbol of Boston's culinary legacy.

Ingredients:

For the Sponge Cake:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 4 large eggs, room temperature

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup whole milk

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Vanilla Custard Filling:

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 4 large egg yolks

  • 1/4 cup cornstarch

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon light corn syrup

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Sponge Cake:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

    • In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together with an electric mixer until thick and pale in color, about 5 minutes.

    • Stir in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

    • Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just incorporated.

    • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

    • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cakes are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

    • Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

  2. Prepare the Vanilla Custard Filling:

    • In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.

    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt until smooth and pale in color.

    • Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.

    • Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened.

    • Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

    • Transfer the custard to a bowl and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

    • Refrigerate until completely chilled, at least 2 hours.

  3. Assemble the Boston Cream Pie:

    • Once the cakes and custard are cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate.

    • Spread the chilled custard evenly over the top of the cake layer.

    • Top with the second cake layer, pressing down gently to secure.

    • Prepare the chocolate glaze by heating the heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming but not boiling.

    • Remove from the heat and add the chopped chocolate and corn syrup. Let it sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.

    • Pour the glaze over the top of the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.

    • Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the glaze to set.

    • Slice and serve chilled, and enjoy this iconic Boston Cream Pie!

This classic dessert is a delightful combination of light sponge cake, creamy custard filling, and rich chocolate glaze, making it a beloved treat for any occasion.

Historical background about Boston Cream Pie

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