boston cream cake recipe

Classic Boston Cream Cake Recipe for Home Bakers

by

Remembering a Boston cream cake can take you back to happy times. It’s a favorite from childhood parties or family get-togethers. This classic American dessert is loved for its rich taste and history. It’s perfect for both experienced bakers and those new to cooking.

Boston cream cake is a mix of a light vanilla sponge, creamy custard, and chocolate ganache. It’s a perfect mix of textures and tastes that has won hearts for years. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make this beloved dessert at home.

The History Behind Boston Cream Cake

The Boston cream cake, often called a “pie,” has a rich history. It started in the mid-19th century. It was first made at the famous Parker House Hotel in Boston by Armenian-French chef Mossburg Sanzian in 1856.

Origins at Parker House Hotel

The Boston cream cake was born at the Parker House Hotel. This hotel was known for its culinary creativity. Chef Sanzian, with his innovative desserts, created the cake’s original recipe.

From Pie Pan to Cake Evolution

The Boston cream cake is not a pie, but a layered sponge cake. It’s filled with creamy custard and topped with chocolate ganache. The name “pie” came from baking cakes in pie pans back then.

Boston’s First Chocolate Connection

The cake’s chocolate topping is a nod to Boston’s chocolate history. The first U.S. chocolate mill was in Boston, thanks to Walter Baker & Company in the early 1800s. This made Boston a hub for chocolate, adding to the cake’s flavor.

The Boston cream cake has come a long way since its start at the Parker House Hotel. It’s now a beloved American classic. Its history and evolution continue to fascinate dessert lovers and bakers.

boston cream pie history

“The Boston cream cake is a quintessential American dessert, a testament to the culinary creativity and innovation that has long defined the city of Boston.”

Essential Ingredients for Boston Cream Cake

To make the classic Boston Cream Cake at home, you need a few key ingredients. You’ll need a moist yellow cake, a creamy vanilla custard, and a chocolate ganache topping. Let’s look at what you need to make this beloved dessert.

For the yellow cake, you’ll need flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, eggs, melted butter, oil, yogurt, vanilla, and milk. These ingredients mix to make a tender, flavorful cake.

The vanilla custard filling needs egg yolks, sugar, cornflour, cream, milk, butter, rum, and vanilla. These mix together to make a smooth, creamy filling that goes well with the cake.

The chocolate ganache topping needs semisweet chocolate, heavy cream, corn syrup, and a bit of salt. When cooled slightly, it becomes a glossy topping that finishes the cake perfectly.

IngredientQuantity
All-purpose flour1 1/2 cups
Baking powder1 1/2 teaspoons
Baking soda1/4 teaspoon
Granulated sugar1 cup
Salt1/2 teaspoon
Eggs2 large
Unsalted butter, melted1/4 cup
Sunflower or canola oil3 tablespoons
Plain yogurt1/4 cup
Vanilla extract1 1/2 teaspoons
Whole milk1/2 cup
boston cream cake ingredients

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a stunning Boston Cream Cake. It’s a mix of moist cake, creamy custard, and rich chocolate ganache. It’s a classic that will wow your family and friends.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make the classic Boston Cream Cake at home, you need the right kitchen tools. From baking pans to mixing tools, having the right equipment makes baking easier and more fun. Let’s look at the essential tools you’ll need to make this tasty dessert.

Baking Pans and Measuring Tools

The first step is choosing the right baking pans. You’ll need a 9×13-inch cake pan for the sponge cake base. Also, having a cake leveler helps to cut the cake layers evenly. It’s important to have measuring cups and spoons ready for precise measurements.

Mixing Equipment Requirements

A good mixer is key to making the perfect cake batter. A stand mixer, like a KitchenAid, or a handheld electric mixer is best. These tools make it easy to mix the butter and sugar and whip the egg whites.

Optional Decorating Tools

While not necessary for baking, some tools can make your cake look amazing. A piping bag and tips are great for decorating with custard or chocolate ganache. A cake turntable also helps to spread frosting evenly and get a professional look.

With these tools, you’re ready to make a delicious Boston Cream Cake. It will impress your family and friends. The right tools can help you achieve bakery-quality results in your kitchen.

baking equipment

Making the Perfect Vanilla Sponge Base

The Boston Cream Cake starts with a tender vanilla sponge cake. This cake is light and airy, thanks to the “hot milk” method. It has a delicate crumb that goes well with the custard and chocolate on top.

First, mix your dry ingredients. Whisk together 375g of cake flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Keep this aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

In a big bowl, beat 4 large eggs with 385g of caster sugar until it’s thick and pale. Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste to give it flavor.

vanilla sponge cake

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the egg mix, folding gently. In another pan, heat 1 1/4 cups of whole milk and 113g of unsalted butter until the butter melts. Mix this hot milk into the batter.

Split the batter between two 8-inch round cake pans, greased and lined. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 28-33 minutes. The cakes are done when a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for 20 minutes, then on a wire rack.

You get a soft, springy vanilla sponge cake. It’s perfect for the Boston Cream Cake. Its fine crumb and delicate taste make it a great base for the custard and chocolate layers.

Boston Cream Cake Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Baking a Boston cream cake at home is a fun journey. Follow these steps to make a classic American dessert that will wow everyone.

Preparing the Cake Batter

First, preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or use a nonstick pan spray. In a big mixing bowl, mix the cake ingredients like eggs, cream of tartar, sugar, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract.

Gently fold in the cake flour and baking powder until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Baking Temperature and Timing

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before cutting and assembling.

Cooling and Handling Tips

Chill the mixing bowl and whisk before whipping the cream for the filling. This makes the cream silky and smooth. Once the cake is cool, use a serrated knife to slice it horizontally into two even layers.

By following these simple steps, you’ll make a Boston cream cake that’s as good as from a bakery. Enjoy the moist sponge cake, creamy vanilla custard, and rich chocolate ganache in every bite.

Creating the Silky Vanilla Custard Filling

Making the perfect vanilla custard filling is key to a great Boston cream cake. This creamy center contrasts beautifully with the cake and chocolate topping.

Start by whisking egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Heat the milk and cream in another saucepan until it steams. Slowly add the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly.

Put the custard back on the heat and stir constantly. Keep stirring until it thickens like pudding, about 5-7 minutes. This ensures a smooth texture.

After thickening, remove from heat and add butter, vanilla, and salt. This adds richness and velvety feel.

Move the custard to a clean bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. If it becomes grainy, add ice cubes and stir until smooth.

Vanilla custard

The Boston cream cake’s silky filling is a treat for the senses. Learning to make this custard is essential for a delicious dessert.

Mastering the Chocolate Ganache Topping

To take your Boston Cream Cake to the next level, you need the perfect chocolate ganache topping. This smooth glaze boosts your dessert’s look and adds a tasty contrast to the creamy filling.

Choosing the Right Chocolate

For a true Boston Cream Cake taste, pick a top-notch semisweet or bittersweet chocolate. Look for one with a cacao content between 35-55%. This ensures your chocolate ganache is just right, balancing sweetness and flavor.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

Getting the ganache consistency right is key. Use a 1:1 chocolate to cream ratio, adding a bit of light corn syrup. This makes a smooth cake topping that sets well without being too thick or thin.

  1. Heat the heavy cream and corn syrup in a saucepan until it’s steaming and just simmering.
  2. Take the pan off the heat and pour the hot cream over the chocolate. Let it sit for 5 minutes to melt the chocolate.
  3. Stir the ganache gently until it’s smooth and even. If it’s too thick, add a bit of warm cream or milk.
  4. Let the chocolate ganache cool a bit before pouring it over the cake. This ensures a glossy finish.

Mastering the chocolate ganache will make your Boston Cream Cake a standout dessert. It will wow your family and guests.

IngredientQuantity
Semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped8 ounces (225 grams)
Heavy cream1 cup (240 ml)
Light corn syrup2 tablespoons (30 ml)

Assembly Techniques and Tips

Mastering cake assembly is crucial for a stunning Boston cream cake. Here are the steps for a professional Boston cream pie assembly.

  1. Begin by cutting the cooled cake in half horizontally, making two even layers.
  2. Brush the bottom layer with a rum-sugar syrup for moisture and flavor.
  3. Spread chilled vanilla custard over the base, saving some for the edges.
  4. Refrigerate the bottom layer for 30 minutes to set the custard.
  5. Place the top cake layer and brush it with syrup.
  6. Fill gaps with the reserved custard for a smooth finish.
  7. Chill the cake for at least 2 hours to meld flavors.

To finish, smooth the sides with a dough scraper or angled spatula. Pour chocolate ganache over the top for a dramatic look.

“The key to a perfect Boston cream cake is the attention to detail in the assembly. Each layer must be perfectly aligned and the final presentation must be flawless.” – Chef Emeril Lagasse

Follow these cake assembly tips to make a stunning Boston cream cake. It will impress your guests and satisfy their sweet tooth.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Storing and preparing your homemade Boston Cream Cake in advance is easy. The assembled cake can stay in the fridge for up to 6 days. This makes it great for potlucks, parties, or any time you want a sweet treat.

Proper Storage Methods

To keep your Boston Cream Cake fresh, always cover it and keep it in the fridge. The custard filling and chocolate ganache need cool temperatures. This helps them stay smooth and prevents spoilage.

For the best taste, take the cake out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you serve it. This lets the flavors warm up a bit.

Shelf Life Guidelines

The sponge cake can be made a day early or even frozen for 2 months. But, make the pastry cream and chocolate ganache just before assembling. This keeps them fresh and smooth.

The assembled cake doesn’t freeze well. The custard filling might separate or get grainy. Instead, freeze the cake layers before filling and frosting. Then, assemble and decorate it the day you plan to serve.

FAQ

What is Boston Cream Cake?

Boston Cream Cake is a classic American dessert. It has a light vanilla sponge cake, creamy custard, and a chocolate ganache on top.

Where does Boston Cream Cake come from?

It started in the 1800s at the Parker House Hotel in Boston. It was a twist on the Washington Pie, with chocolate added on top.

Is Boston Cream Cake actually a cake or a pie?

Boston Cream Cake is indeed a cake, not a pie. The name “pie” came from using pie pans for baking back then.

What are the key ingredients in Boston Cream Cake?

It’s made with vanilla sponge cake, creamy custard, and chocolate ganache. You’ll also need eggs, milk, butter, flour, sugar, and vanilla extract.

What kind of equipment do I need to make Boston Cream Cake?

You’ll need a 9×13 inch cake pan, mixing bowls, and a mixer. Also, a spatula, cake leveler, wax paper, measuring tools, and a fridge.

How do I bake the perfect vanilla sponge cake for Boston Cream Cake?

The sponge cake uses a hot milk method. Mix dry ingredients separately. Beat eggs and sugar until fluffy, then add flour. Heat milk and butter, then mix with the batter.

How do I make the creamy custard filling?

Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornflour together. Heat cream and milk, then mix with the egg mixture. Cook until thick, stirring constantly. Add butter, rum, and vanilla.

How do I prepare the chocolate ganache topping?

Heat cream and corn syrup until hot. Pour over chopped chocolate. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Corn syrup adds shine and sweetness.

How do I assemble the Boston Cream Cake?

Cut the cooled cake in half. Brush the bottom with rum-sugar syrup. Spread chilled custard on the base, then add the top layer. Pour cooled ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides.

How long will Boston Cream Cake last, and can I make it in advance?

Assembled cake lasts up to 6 days in the fridge. It can be frozen for 3 months, but the custard might change. The sponge cake can be made a day ahead or frozen for 2 months. Custard and ganache are best made fresh.

Leave a Comment