National Boston Cream Pie Day is today and we’re so excited! This delicious dessert was created in the early 1800s by a French chef working in Boston. (Interestingly, it wasn’t actually called a “Boston cream pie” until the 1950s!) The cake is made from a yellow butter cake, filled with custard or cream and topped with chocolate glaze. If you’ve never tried this dessert before, now is the perfect time to celebrate National Boston Cream Pie Day!
A Slice of American History: The Boston Cream Pie
Did you know that the Boston cream pie has a rich and nuanced history? This delicious dessert was invented in 1856 by French chef Sanzian at The Parker House Hotel (now the Omni Parker House Hotel) in Boston. The original recipe called for multiple layers of cake with cream filling in between, topped with a chocolate frosting.
- In 1996, the Massachusetts state legislature recognized the Boston cream pie as the official “state dessert.”
- In 2010, students at Southern New Hampshire University created the world’s largest Boston cream pie — measuring 10 feet wide and 1.5 feet high.
- And in 2015, author Robert Cox published the definitive history of New England pie making, which reveals the “revolutionary” roots of the Boston cream pie.
So how did this sweet treat become such a staple of American cuisine? Let’s take a closer look…
· The Origins of the Boston Cream Pie
Boston cream pie is thought to have originated at The Parker House Hotel in 1856. The hotel was founded by Harvey D. Parker, who emigrated from England to Boston in 1855. He opened his first hotel — The Parker House — on Tremont Street in October 1856. The hotel quickly became a gathering place for local dignitaries, including presidents and other political figures.
It was at The Parker House where French chef Jean Francois Sanzian created the now-famous dessert. Sanzian had previously worked as a chef for Napoleon III before moving to America. His Boston cream pie recipe called for multiple layers of cake with custard filling in between, all topped with a chocolate glaze frosting. The dish was an instant hit with hotel guests and quickly became known as “Parker House Pie.”
The popularity of the Boston cream pie continued to grow throughout the years. In 1896, Fannie Farmer included a recipe for “chocolate cream pie” in her cookbook, “The Boston Cooking School Cook Book.” And in 1936, General Foods Corporation debuted its Duncan Hines line of cake mix, which included a recipe for Boston cream pie on the back of every box. Over time, the name “Boston cream pie” became more widely used than “Parker House Pie,” and the dish became known nationwide as a quintessential American dessert.
· Bostom Cream Pie Recipe Variations
While the traditional recipe for Boston cream pie calls for multiple layers of cake with custard or pudding filling in between, there are many variations of this classic dessert that have emerged over time. For example, some recipes call for using yellow or white cake instead of chocolate cake; while others use vanilla pudding or even whipped cream as a filling instead of custard. No matter what ingredients you use, one thing is for sure: A slice of Boston cream pie is always delicious!
What better way is there to celebrate National Bostom Cream Pie Day than by enjoying a delicious slice (or two) of this All-American favorite? And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at making your own Boston cream pie? Check out this recipe from Williams Sonoma for a classic rendition of this All-American favorite.
Boston Cream Pie FAQs:
Ah, Boston cream pie. Few desserts are as synonymous with the city of Boston as this creamy, custard-filled pie. Though it’s commonly referred to as a “pie,” many people don’t realize that Boston cream pie is actually a cake! In this section, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this scrumptious dessert. Read on to learn more about Boston cream pie—and to get some mouthwatering recipe ideas.
1. Is Boston cream pie a cake?
Yes, Boston cream pie is actually a cake! The confusion likely arises from the fact that it’s served in a pie dish and has a filling that’s similar to those found in fruit pies. However, at its core, Boston cream pie is a cake that’s filled with custard or cream and topped with chocolate ganache or frosting. Delicious!
2. Why do we refer to Boston cream pie as pie?
This is a great question—and one that doesn’t have a clear-cut answer. One theory is that the dessert was originally called a “pie” because it was baked in shallow pans called “pie plates.” Another possibility is that the name was simply meant to be descriptive, as in “cream pie.” Whatever the case may be, there’s no denying that Boston cream pie is one of the most beloved desserts in Boston—and beyond!
3. What are Boston’s other signature foods?
In addition to Boston cream pie, there are several other dishes that are synonymous with the city of Boston. These include clam chowder, lobster rolls, baked beans, and Fenway Franks (hot dogs). Yum!
Whether you call it a cake or a pie, there’s no denying that Boston cream pie is delicious! If you’re craving something sweet, why not whip up your own batch of this classic dessert? You can find recipes for traditional Boston cream pies online—or you can get creative and put your own spin on this delicious treat. Bon appetit!
Celebrating National Boston Cream Pie Day
We’re celebrating National Boston Cream Pie Day with a round-up of some of the best ways to enjoy this delicious dessert! Whether you’re baking your own pie, throwing a Boston cream party, or visiting Boston to enjoy some of the best cream pies in the country, we’ve got you covered. So grab a fork and let’s get started!
· Bake Your Own Boston Cream Pie
For those of us who love to bake, there’s nothing better than whipping up a homemade Boston cream pie. And luckily, this delectable dessert is not as difficult to make as you might think. Check out this recipe from The Spruce Eats for a delicious and easy-to-follow guide to baking your own Boston cream pie.
· Throw a Boston Cream Party
If you’re looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate National Boston Cream Pie Day, why not throw a party? Invite your friends and family over for an afternoon or evening of fun, food, and of course, lots of delicious Boston cream pies! Not sure where to start? This party planning guide from Martha Stewart has everything you need to know to throw the perfect Boston cream party. From creative ideas for decorations and games to tips on how to make your own mini pies, this guide has it all. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your party today!
· Visit Boston
For some of us, the best way to celebrate National Boston Cream Pie Day is by indulging in this delicious dessert in its hometown: Boston, Massachusetts. After all, what could be more authentically American than enjoying a slice of pie in one of America’s most historic cities? If you’re planning a trip to Boston, be sure to check out this list of the best places to get Boston cream pie in the city. From legendary bakeries like Mike’s Pastry to modern restaurants like Flour Bakery + Cafe, there’s something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Grab your passport and head on over to Beantown for some deliciousness!
No matter how you choose to celebrate National Boston Cream Pie Day, one thing is for sure: this is one holiday that is sure to be sweet! So go ahead and bake your pie, throw your party, or visit Boston—just don’t forget to enjoy every minute (and every bite!) of this special day. Happy celebrating!
5 Places to Get Boston Cream Pie in Chester County
Boston cream pie is a delicious dessert that can be enjoyed any time of year. If you’re looking for a place to get Boston cream pie in Chester County, Pennsylvania, look no further! Here are 5 great places to get Boston cream pie in Chester County, Pennsylvania.
1. Bakers of Buffington – 131 E Lancaster Ave, Downingtown, PA 19335 – Bakers of Buffington has been serving Downingtown and Chester County for over 30 years. Bakers of Buffington takes great pride in their individually made products, and they believe that every product should be a work of art. As a result, each pie is made to order and must be ordered in advance. However, the wait is well worth it, as each bite of Boston cream pie will leave you wanting more.
2. Clays Creative Corner Bakery – 700 Lancaster Ave, Berwyn, PA 19312 – Clays Creative Corner Bakery in Berwyn is a family-owned and operated bakery that first opened in 1990. They do a spectacular job of Boston cream pie. The Boston cream pie at Clays’ is made with two layers of rich vanilla cake, filled with creamy custard and topped with chocolate ganache. It is truly a work of art. And the taste? Boston cream pie has never tasted so good.
3. Yori’s Church Street Bakery – 15 N Church St, West Chester, PA 19382 – Yori’s Church Street Bakery in West Chester is best known for their Boston cream pie, but they offer a wide variety of custom cakes, pastries, pies, cookies, breads, and coffee. The bakery has been a staple in the community for over ten years, and is known for using only the freshest ingredients in all of their baking. The staff is always friendly and welcoming, and they work hard to make each customer’s experience special. Whether you’re looking for a birthday cake or just a simple cupcake, Yori’s Church Street Bakery is the place to go.
4. Sharon’s Sweet Beginnings – No Pick Up Options, 101 W Pennsylvania Ave, Downingtown, PA 19335 – Sharon’s Boston cream pie is an absolute delight. The Boston cream pie at Sharon’s is made from scratch and always tastes delicious. Boston cream pie is one of the most popular items on her menu. So, if you’re looking for a delicious treat, be sure to check out Sharon’s Sweet Beginning in Downingtown.
5. Beiler’s Bakery & Donut Shop – Westtown Amish Market, 1165 Wilmington Pike, West Chester, PA 19382 – Beiler’s Bakery & Donut Shop, located at the Westtown Amish Market, opened in December 2015. The bakery is famous in the Philadelphia area for its handmade, freshly baked donuts. The Boston cream pie is a must-try for anyone visiting the bakery. It is made with a layer of rich chocolate ganache, a layer of vanilla pastry cream, and a layer of rich chocolate frosting. Their Boston cream pie is a perfect balance of sweet and rich flavors.
With so many great places to get Boston Cream Pie in Chester County, Pennsylvania, you’ll be sure to find the perfect one for you! Whether you’re looking for a classic experience or a custom-made dessert, there’s a spot on this list for you! Bon appetit!
Happy National Boston Cream Pie Day!
National Boston Cream Pie Day is a special day to celebrate all things related to the delicious dessert. This year, take some time out of your busy schedule to enjoy a slice of this classic American treat. And don’t forget to sign up for our free email newsletter so you can stay up-to-date on all of the upcoming foodie events in our area!
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This article is intended for informational, entertainment or educational purposes only and should not be construed as advice, guidance or counsel. It is provided without warranty of any kind.