Description

Boston Cream Pie, despite its name, is not a pie at all, but rather a delightful layered cake filled with creamy vanilla custard and topped with a rich chocolate glaze. The origins of its misnomer date back to a time when pies and cakes were often baked in the same type of pan, leading to some terminological confusion that persists to this day. Regardless of its name, Boston Cream Pie remains a beloved dessert that captures the hearts of many with its perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Our recipe takes this classic dessert and simplifies it into a poke cake version that’s just as delicious but much easier to prepare. The cake’s moist crumb soaks up the vanilla custard, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Topped with a silky chocolate ganache, this Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake offers all the satisfaction of the original with far less effort. It’s the perfect dessert for those who love the flavors of Boston Cream Pie but are short on time.

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix, plus ingredients called for on the package
• 2 (3.4 oz) boxes of instant vanilla pudding
• 4 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 12 oz bag of chocolate chips
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream

Preparation Method

Prepare the Cake:

Start by preparing the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into a 9x13-inch baking pan and bake as directed. Once the cake is done, allow it to cool completely in the pan.
Poke the Cake:

After the cake has cooled, take the handle end of a wooden spoon and poke holes all over the surface of the cake. The holes should be evenly spaced, and you should make sure they go deep into the cake to allow the filling to seep in fully.
Prepare the Vanilla Custard:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and vanilla extract. Do this quickly, as you need to pour the mixture over the cake before it sets and thickens. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Pour the pudding mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring that it fills all the holes you’ve created. This will allow the vanilla custard to permeate the entire cake, making each bite moist and flavorful. Place the cake in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour.
Make the Chocolate Ganache:

To prepare the chocolate ganache, place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until it just begins to simmer. Alternatively, you can heat the cream in the microwave until it’s hot but not boiling.
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to soften. Afterward, stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and glossy. Let the ganache cool for about 10 minutes before pouring it over the chilled cake.
Finish and Serve:

Pour the cooled chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Make sure the entire surface of the cake is covered with a smooth layer of chocolate. Return the cake to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together and the ganache to set.
Once the cake is thoroughly chilled, it’s ready to be sliced and served. Enjoy the delicious combination of moist vanilla cake, creamy custard, and rich chocolate ganache in every bite.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:

For a little extra flavor, you can add a splash of coffee liqueur to the ganache or sprinkle some finely chopped nuts over the top before the ganache sets. This adds a delightful twist to the classic flavor profile and makes the cake even more indulgent.

Conclusion:

This Boston Cream Pie Poke Cake is a modern take on a classic dessert that simplifies the preparation process without compromising on taste. The vanilla custard seeps into the cake, ensuring every bite is moist and full of flavor, while the rich chocolate ganache adds a luxurious finish. It’s an easy yet impressive dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a treat for yourself. No matter what you call it—pie or cake—this dessert is sure to be a hit with anyone who takes a bite.