What To Know
- While the flavor profiles of the two desserts are similar, Boston cream cake might have a slight edge due to the additional texture provided by the cake layers.
- If you prefer a traditional pie with a flaky crust and a rich custard filling, Boston cream pie is the perfect choice.
- If you desire a more layered and versatile dessert with a soft cake base and a harmonious balance of flavors, Boston cream cake will undoubtedly satisfy your cravings.
The culinary landscape of Boston boasts two iconic desserts that have sparked a friendly rivalry for generations: Boston cream pie and Boston cream cake. While both share the name “Boston cream,” they are distinct treats with unique characteristics that set them apart. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of these beloved desserts, comparing and contrasting them to help you determine which one reigns supreme in your taste buds’ court.
Origin and History
The origin of Boston cream pie remains shrouded in mystery, with several bakeries claiming to have invented it. One popular theory attributes its creation to A.F. Sanborn, a chef at the Parker House Hotel in Boston in the mid-1800s. On the other hand, Boston cream cake has a clearer history, dating back to the 1870s when it was created by M.A. Jenks, a confectioner at the Omni Parker House Hotel.
Appearance
Boston cream pie resembles a traditional pie, featuring a flaky crust filled with a rich and creamy custard. The top of the pie is typically glazed with a shiny chocolate ganache. Boston cream cake, on the other hand, is a two-layer cake with a moist and fluffy sponge cake base. The layers are sandwiched together with the same custard filling found in Boston cream pie, and the entire cake is topped with chocolate glaze.
Texture
The texture of Boston cream pie is a delightful contrast between the flaky crust and the smooth, velvety custard. The custard is thick and creamy, providing a rich and decadent mouthfeel. Boston cream cake offers a different textural experience, with its soft and airy cake layers that melt in your mouth. The combination of the cake and custard creates a harmonious balance that is both satisfying and light.
Flavor
Both Boston cream pie and Boston cream cake showcase a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The custard filling is the star of the show, boasting a rich and eggy flavor with hints of vanilla and nutmeg. The chocolate glaze adds a bittersweet note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the custard. While the flavor profiles of the two desserts are similar, Boston cream cake might have a slight edge due to the additional texture provided by the cake layers.
Versatility
Boston cream pie is typically enjoyed on its own as a dessert, but it can also be incorporated into other dishes, such as ice cream or milkshakes. Boston cream cake, on the other hand, is more versatile. It can be served as a dessert, but it also makes an excellent accompaniment to coffee or tea. Additionally, Boston cream cake can be decorated with various toppings, such as fruit or whipped cream, to create a more elaborate presentation.
Popularity
Both Boston cream pie and Boston cream cake are beloved desserts in Boston and beyond. However, Boston cream pie seems to have a wider reach, with its popularity extending to other parts of the United States and even internationally. Boston cream cake, on the other hand, remains a more local delicacy, primarily enjoyed in the Boston area.
Which One to Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between Boston cream pie and Boston cream cake comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a traditional pie with a flaky crust and a rich custard filling, Boston cream pie is the perfect choice. If you desire a more layered and versatile dessert with a soft cake base and a harmonious balance of flavors, Boston cream cake will undoubtedly satisfy your cravings.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Are Boston cream pie and Boston cream cake the same thing?
A: No, Boston cream pie and Boston cream cake are distinct desserts with different appearances, textures, and origins.
Q: Which dessert is more popular?
A: Boston cream pie has a wider reach and popularity than Boston cream cake, but both are beloved desserts in Boston.
Q: Can I make Boston cream pie or Boston cream cake at home?
A: Yes, both desserts can be made at home with the right ingredients and instructions. However, Boston cream cake might be slightly more challenging to prepare due to the layered nature of the cake.
Q: What is the best way to serve Boston cream pie or Boston cream cake?
A: Boston cream pie is typically served chilled, while Boston cream cake can be served at room temperature or slightly chilled. Both desserts pair well with coffee or tea.
Q: Can I freeze Boston cream pie or Boston cream cake?
A: Yes, both desserts can be frozen for up to a month. However, the custard filling might lose some of its texture and consistency after freezing.
