Boston Cream Pie Cookies

by

Boston Cream Pie Cookies: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Dessert

If you love the rich flavors of Boston Cream Pie, but want something smaller, easier, and more snackable, then Boston Cream Pie Cookies are your new favorite treat! These soft, buttery cookies are topped with creamy vanilla custard and a silky chocolate ganache, creating the perfect balance of fluffiness, creaminess, and decadence.

Whether you’re making them for a party, afternoon snack, or just to treat yourself, these cookies will satisfy any sweet tooth. They take all the best parts of a traditional Boston Cream Pie and transform them into bite-sized delights!

Why You’ll Love These Boston Cream Pie Cookies

✔ All the Flavor, None of the Fuss – Enjoy the classic taste of Boston Cream Pie in a simple, handheld cookie.
✔ Soft & Buttery Cookie Base – Light, cakey cookies that mimic the texture of sponge cake.
✔ Silky Vanilla Cream Filling – A rich custard-like filling that’s incredibly smooth.
✔ Decadent Chocolate Ganache – A shiny, thick chocolate topping that adds the perfect finishing touch.
✔ Make Ahead Friendly – The components can be prepared ahead of time for convenience.

What is Boston Cream Pie?

Despite its name, Boston Cream Pie is actually a cake! Originating from Boston’s Parker House Hotel in the 1850s, this dessert consists of:

  • Two layers of sponge cake
  • A creamy vanilla custard filling
  • A smooth chocolate glaze on top

These Boston Cream Pie Cookies keep all those signature flavors, but make them easier to enjoy in cookie form!

Ingredients for Boston Cream Pie Cookies

These cookies are made with three delicious layers, each requiring simple pantry ingredients.

For the Cookie Base:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

For the Vanilla Cream Filling:

  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Chocolate Ganache:

  • 4 oz semisweet chocolate (chopped)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for extra shine, optional)

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cookie Base

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
  4. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
  5. Mix in sour cream to keep the cookies moist and tender.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
  7. Drop tablespoon-sized scoops onto the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  9. Let cool completely before assembling.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Cream Filling

  1. In a small saucepan, whisk milk, cornstarch, and sugar over medium heat.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks.
  3. Slowly pour some of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly (this prevents scrambling).
  4. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter.
  6. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (press it directly onto the surface to prevent skin forming), and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache

  1. Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
  2. In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until it just starts to simmer.
  3. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let sit for 1 minute.
  4. Stir gently until smooth and glossy.
  5. Stir in butter for extra shine.
  6. Let cool slightly before assembling.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

  1. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of vanilla cream filling onto each cooled cookie.
  2. Spread gently, leaving a small border around the edges.
  3. Spoon melted chocolate ganache over the top, letting it drip slightly down the sides.
  4. Let the cookies set for 15 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Boston Cream Pie Cookies

✔ Use High-Quality Chocolate – The ganache is the star! Use good-quality semisweet chocolate.
✔ Don’t Overbake the Cookies – They should be soft and cakey, not crunchy.
✔ Chill the Filling – Let the custard cool completely before spreading it.
✔ Allow Ganache to Cool Slightly – If too warm, it will be too runny.
✔ Make Them Ahead – The cookies, custard, and ganache can be made a day in advance.

Fun Variations

Want to switch things up? Try these flavorful twists:

1. Mini Boston Cream Whoopie Pies

  • Bake the cookies slightly thicker and sandwich two together with cream filling inside.

2. Mocha Boston Cream Cookies

  • Add ½ teaspoon espresso powder to the ganache for a coffee-chocolate flavor.

3. Strawberry Boston Cream Cookies

  • Stir in finely chopped strawberries into the custard for a fruity twist.

4. Nutty Boston Cream Cookies

  • Sprinkle chopped toasted hazelnuts or almonds on top of the ganache.

5. Salted Caramel Boston Cream Cookies

  • Drizzle salted caramel over the ganache for an extra decadent treat.

How to Store & Freeze

Refrigeration:

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Let come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing:

  • Freeze unassembled cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw and assemble when ready to eat.

What to Serve with Boston Cream Pie Cookies

These rich and decadent cookies pair perfectly with:

  • A hot cup of coffee or tea ☕
  • Cold milk or vanilla milkshake 🥛
  • Fresh berries for a fruity contrast 🍓

For a dessert platter, serve alongside eclairs, cream puffs, or chocolate-dipped biscotti.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought pudding instead of homemade custard?

Yes! If you’re short on time, use vanilla pudding as a substitute.

2. Can I use white chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, but it will be sweeter. Reduce the sugar in the cookies slightly.

3. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

4. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! The components can be made a day ahead and assembled before serving.

Final Thoughts

These Boston Cream Pie Cookies take all the best parts of the classic cake and turn them into an easy, irresistible handheld treat. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, a weekend indulgence, or a fun baking project, they’re guaranteed to impress.

So grab your butter, chocolate, and vanilla, and whip up a batch of these delightful cookies today!

Leave a Comment