National Boston Cream Pie Day
A delightful dessert with layers of sponge cake, velvety cream, and a luscious glaze, it's a sweet symphony of flavors and textures.
Imagine a day dedicated to a dessert that’s not quite a pie, yet not exactly a cake. That’s right, we’re talking about National Boston Cream Pie Day, celebrated every year on October 23rd.
This day honors a unique dessert that has been delighting taste buds since its creation in 1856 by an Armenian-French chef named Sanzian at Boston’s Parker House Hotel.
Despite its name, this treat is actually a cake: two layers of sponge cake filled with creamy custard and topped off with a rich chocolate glaze. It’s a day when cake meets pie in the sweetest way possible!
National Boston Cream Pie Day recognizes the invention of a dessert that became an instant hit due to its innovative combination of flavors and textures.
Over time, this cake disguised as a pie has become a symbol of Massachusetts, even being declared the official state dessert in 1996. It’s a tribute to the culinary creativity of its creator and the enduring appeal of this beloved dessert.
The day encourages people to indulge in this sweet treat by baking their own, enjoying a slice from a local bakery, or simply spreading the word about this delectable dish.
History of National Boston Cream Pie Day
National Boston Cream Pie Day takes us back to a delicious slice of history. Celebrated every October 23rd, this day honors a dessert that’s a bit of a mix-up but all parts delicious.
It all started back in 1856 at the Parker House Hotel in Boston. A clever chef thought, “Why not put custard between cake layers and top it with chocolate?” And just like that, the Boston Cream Pie was born. But here’s the fun part: it’s not even a pie. It’s a cake with an identity crisis!
Fast forward to 1996, and Massachusetts decided this dessert was too good to eat. They named it their official state dessert. Imagine a cake so loved it gets its official day!
That’s exactly what happened with the Boston Cream Pie. But how did October 23 become the day? Well, that’s a bit of a mystery. There’s no clear record of the first celebration or who decided it. We do know that people loved this dessert so much they thought, “Let’s make a day of it!”
On National Boston Cream Pie Day, people dive into this dessert in all sorts of ways. Some bake their own, following recipes that have been tweaked and perfected over the years. Others visit bakeries to grab a slice made by pastry pros.
Then, some get creative, adding their twist to the classic recipe. And let’s not forget the power of hashtags. Fans of the dessert flood social media, sharing pictures, recipes, and love for their favorite treat using #NationalBostonCreamPieDay.
So, whether you’re in it for the cake, the custard, or the chocolate, this day is a sweet celebration of innovation, indulgence, and a little bit of dessert identity confusion​​​​​​​​.
How to Celebrate National Boston Cream Pie Day
Celebrating National Boston Cream Pie Day can be as simple as sharing a slice with friends or as adventurous as hosting a dessert party where everyone tries their hand at making their version of this classic dessert.
Social media becomes a platform to showcase your Boston Cream Pie creations, share recipes, or express your love for this iconic dessert using hashtags like #NationalBostonCreamPieDay.
It’s a day for dessert lovers to unite in their appreciation for a cake that has captured hearts with its creamy filling and chocolatey topping, proving that sometimes, having an identity crisis can be deliciously rewarding​​​​​​.
Celebrating National Boston Cream Pie Day is all about indulging in that sweet spot where cake meets pie in a delightful dance.
Some Ways to Make the Most of the Day
Bake a classic Boston Cream Pie at home. Dive into the layers of sponge cake, custard, and chocolate glaze. It’s a baking adventure that ends in deliciousness.
Host a Boston Cream Pie tasting party. Invite friends to bring different versions of this iconic dessert, such as mini pies, cupcakes, or vegan adaptations. It’s a taste test where everyone wins!
Go on a local bakery hop to find the best slice in town. Discover hidden gems that serve this creamy, chocolatey delight. Bonus points for trying a new place!
Share the joy by surprising someone with a slice. Whether it’s a neighbor, a coworker, or a friend, brighten their day with a sweet treat. It’s like delivering happiness on a plate.
Get creative in the kitchen by experimenting with twists on the traditional recipe. How about adding a dash of espresso to the chocolate glaze or a hint of orange zest to the custard? Innovate and enjoy.
Capture your pie (or pie-making process) in pictures and share the love online. Use hashtags like #NationalBostonCreamPieDay to join the nationwide celebration. Your masterpiece might just go viral!
Learn about the history behind this iconic dessert. Dive into stories of how it became Massachusetts’ official dessert and how it went from a hotel kitchen to a national favorite.
Remember, National Boston Cream Pie Day is all about celebrating the joy of desserts, creativity in baking, and, of course, the love for that creamy middle and glossy chocolate topping. Let the festivities begin!
National Boston Cream Pie Day FAQs
Why is it called “Boston Cream Pie” when it’s actually a cake?
The name comes from the 19th century when pie tins were more common than cake pans.
Early versions were baked in these tins and served like pie, leading to the name sticking even after cake pans became widespread​
Did the original Boston Cream Pie have almonds on the sides?
Yes! Early versions were coated with toasted almonds for added texture.
While most modern versions skip this step, some traditional bakeries still use almonds to honor the classic recipe​.
What was the largest Boston Cream Pie ever made?
In 1996, to celebrate its new status as Massachusetts’ official dessert, a giant Boston Cream Pie was baked. It weighed over 1,000 pounds and had to be cut with an industrial-sized knife​.
Are there any international variations of Boston Cream Pie?
Taiwan has a unique version made with chiffon cake instead of traditional sponge cake. It skips the chocolate topping to emphasize the airy texture of the cake and custard​.
Was Boston Cream Pie originally called something else?
Yes! It was once called “Chocolate Cream Pie” in the 1872 Methodist Almanac and “Parker House Chocolate Cream Pie” before the name evolved to “Boston Cream Pie” in 1878​.
What ingredient made Boston Cream Pie possible in the 19th century?
Baking powder. Before its invention in the 1850s, cakes relied on yeast, which made them denser. The light, fluffy texture of Boston Cream Pie became possible thanks to baking powder​.
Why is Boston Cream Pie linked to gendered nostalgia?
Some old New England residents recall that men often considered it a rare treat enjoyed at restaurants, while women were more indifferent to it.
This may be because it was seen as a “fancy” dessert outside everyday home baking​.
Is there a Boston Cream Pie festival?
While no massive festival exists, Boston Cream Pie contests are often held at baking competitions. The Parker House Hotel sometimes hosts special events featuring the dessert​.
What’s the difference between a Boston Cream Pie and a Boston Cream Doughnut?
A Boston Cream Doughnut is a Berliner-style pastry filled with vanilla custard and topped with chocolate icing. It’s inspired by the pie but has a softer, fried dough exterior instead of cake​.
Was Boston Cream Pie inspired by another dessert?
Yes! Some food historians believe it evolved from “pudding-cake pie,” a colonial-era dessert that combined cake and custard in a similar fashion​.
Need some inspiration?
Check out these videos for some extra inspiration in getting involved!
Also on ...
View all holidays
International Snow Leopard Day
These majestic creatures prowl the mountains with grace and power, their stunning coats blending seamlessly into the snowy landscape.
National Mole Day
In the world of atoms, there's a magical number that gives substance to chemistry's dance – a secret ingredient to understanding matter's recipe.
We think you may also like...
National German Chocolate Cake Day
Try your hand at making a rich and delicate German chocolate cake, or go the lazy way and search your town for the finest pre-made version of the same.
National Lemon Meringue Pie Day
Head over to a local bakery for a pre-made lemon meringue pie, or try making one yourself. Just give yourself plenty of time to whip the meringue to a stiff texture.
Sprinkle Day
Make your day just a little more festive and sweet by adding sprinkles to everything! Within reason, of course. Oatmeal, muffins, and of course dessert all benefit.
National Hazelnut Cake Day
Get nutty for hazelnut cake—a deliciously decadent treat that will have you going nuts for seconds! Each bite is a heavenly blend of rich chocolate and toasty hazelnuts. So don't be shy, grab a slice and let's get nutty!
