Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake Recipe
If you have a sweet tooth and love classic desserts with a twist, the Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake is an absolute dream come true. This decadent creation marries the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the nostalgic charm of Boston cream pie, resulting in layers of buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cheesecake, a smooth vanilla custard, and a glossy chocolate ganache topping. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of textures and flavors that come together perfectly—a must-try for anyone who enjoys indulgence with a side of elegance.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake plays an essential role, working together to create the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and appearance. From the crunchy crust to the silky custard and luscious ganache, every component matters.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provide a crunchy, buttery base that holds the dessert together while adding a subtle toasty flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps bind the graham cracker crust for that perfect crumbly texture.
- Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer, bringing creamy tanginess and structure.
- Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake and custard, balancing flavors without overpowering.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the fragrant notes throughout the dessert.
- Whole milk: Vital for the silky, smooth vanilla custard layer that sets atop the cheesecake.
- Egg yolks: Help thicken and enrich both the cheesecake and custard layers for a luscious texture.
- Cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent in the custard, ensuring it sets perfectly without being gummy.
- Chocolate chips: The base for a rich, glossy ganache that crowns the cheesecake-cake with chocolatey bliss.
- Heavy cream: Combined with chocolate chips to create that luxurious ganache glaze with a velvety finish.
How to Make Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted unsalted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust. This layer will provide the sturdy, flavorful base for your Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake, so don’t be shy about packing it down well.
Step 2: Make and Bake the Cheesecake Layer
Next, beat the cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, fragrant touch. Pour this luscious batter over your crust, smoothing the top gently. Bake the cheesecake layer for 50 to 60 minutes until it is just set but still slightly jiggly in the center—this will ensure a creamy finish once cooled.
Step 3: Prepare the Vanilla Custard Layer
While the cheesecake cools slightly, whisk together whole milk, egg yolks, cornstarch, and sugar in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a smooth custard. Pour this warm but not hot custard over the baked cheesecake layer, spreading it evenly. This custard is the heart of Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake, adding that classic velvety vanilla flavor you know and love.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache
Gently heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer, then pour it over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture becomes a shiny, silky ganache. Pour this indulgent sauce over the cooled custard and cheesecake layers, giving your Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake a gorgeous chocolate crown.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Refrigerate your masterpiece for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This chilling stage allows all the layers to meld beautifully, firming up the cheesecake and custard while letting the ganache set to a perfect glossy finish. After this, your Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake is ready to wow!
How to Serve Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake

Garnishes
To elevate your Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake even further, consider topping it off with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries. A sprinkle of toasted nuts can add delightful crunch, while a light dusting of powdered sugar creates a lovely, delicate contrast against the ganache.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or rich black tea, balancing the sweetness with slight bitterness. For an extra treat, serve alongside homemade whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to add some cool creaminess to each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake into neat, elegant wedges and serve on pretty dessert plates garnished with edible flowers or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For parties, serve individual portions in glass cups layered with crumbled crust, cheesecake, custard, and ganache—chic and easy to eat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to four days, with all those beautiful layers maintaining their texture and flavor. Remember to cover it tightly to prevent it from absorbing other fridge aromas.
Freezing
You can freeze the cheesecake-cake if needed. Wrap it securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the dessert overnight in the fridge to retain the perfect creamy consistency of every layer.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, but if you want to slightly warm your slice, do so gently at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can ruin the ganache’s texture and melt the custard layer inside.
FAQs
What makes Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake different from regular cheesecake?
Unlike a traditional cheesecake, this dessert layers cheesecake with a thick vanilla custard and a chocolate ganache topping, inspired by the flavors of classic Boston cream pie. This combination creates a unique and multi-textured experience.
Can I use a different crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crumbs are traditional and add lovely flavor, you could also try crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for a slightly different taste and texture.
Is it necessary to use a springform pan?
Yes, a springform pan is highly recommended since it makes it much easier to remove the delicate cheesecake-cake without damaging its beautiful layers.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs, and ensure any other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free for a safe and delicious gluten-free Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake.
How long should I chill the Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake before serving?
For the best texture and flavor, chill the dessert for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling is ideal. This allows all layers to set properly and the flavors to fully develop.
Final Thoughts
This Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake is truly a delightful treat that combines the best of two classic desserts into one unforgettable experience. Whether for a special occasion or simply satisfying a dessert craving, I encourage you to try making it yourself—you won’t regret sharing this luscious, crowd-pleasing masterpiece with friends and family!
PrintBoston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake Recipe
This Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake-Cake combines the rich, creamy texture of a classic cheesecake with the indulgent flavors of a Boston cream pie. Featuring a graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, a luscious vanilla custard topping, and a silky chocolate ganache finish, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or anytime you want a decadent treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla Custard Topping
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for enhanced flavor)
Chocolate Ganache
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 oz semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes to set, then remove and let cool slightly.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Remove and let cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the vanilla custard topping: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the whole milk, egg yolks, granulated sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract if using. Allow to cool slightly but not set completely. Pour the custard gently over the cheesecake layer, spreading evenly.
- Make the chocolate ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for a minute, then stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Assemble and chill: Pour the chocolate ganache over the slightly cooled custard layer, spreading it evenly. Cover the springform pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set completely. Before serving, run a knife around the edges to loosen and release the cheesecake from the pan.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better texture.
- To prevent cracking, avoid overbaking the cheesecake; it should still have a slight jiggle in the center when done.
- Chilling overnight improves flavor melding and texture firmness.
- For easier removal, wrap the springform pan base in foil to prevent leaks during baking if desired.
- If you prefer a stronger chocolate flavor, consider using bittersweet chocolate chips for the ganache.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 35 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
Keywords: Boston Cream Pie, Cheesecake, Cheesecake Cake, Chocolate Ganache, Dessert, Graham Cracker Crust

