This Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake is a rich and decadent dessert that combines two classics in one delicious creation. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake center, and a glossy chocolate ganache topping, it’s a showstopper that’s as satisfying as it looks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this dessert brings together the best parts of Boston Cream Pie and traditional cheesecake. The crust adds crunch, the cheesecake layer is silky smooth, and the chocolate topping is pure indulgence. It’s perfect for celebrations, special dinners, or anytime I want to impress without too much hassle.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
graham cracker crumbs
unsalted butter, melted
granulated sugar
cream cheese
granulated sugar (for filling)
eggs
vanilla extract
heavy cream
semisweet chocolate chips
Note: The full ingredient quantities and step-by-step instructions would typically be in the recipe card.
Directions
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I start by preheating the oven to 325°F (163°C).
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Then I mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar, pressing the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust. I bake it for about 10 minutes and let it cool.
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Next, I beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
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I pour the mixture over the cooled crust and bake it for about 50–60 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
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After cooling the cheesecake completely, I refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight.
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For the ganache, I heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour it over the chocolate chips and stir until smooth.
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I spread the ganache over the top of the chilled cheesecake, let it set slightly, then slice and serve.
Servings and timing
This cheesecake serves 12 people.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours (minimum)
Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
Variations
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I sometimes swap the graham cracker crust for chocolate cookie crumbs to make it extra indulgent.
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For a lighter version, I use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the sugar slightly.
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I’ve even added a thin layer of vanilla pastry cream between the cheesecake and ganache to bring in more of that traditional Boston Cream Pie flavor.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in the fridge, tightly covered, for up to 5 days. For longer storage, I freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. When I’m ready to eat, I thaw them in the fridge overnight. I don’t recommend reheating since cheesecake is best served chilled.
FAQs
What’s the difference between Boston Cream Pie and Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake?
Boston Cream Pie is traditionally a sponge cake with custard and chocolate glaze. This cheesecake version replaces the sponge cake with a creamy cheesecake base but keeps the chocolate topping.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, I usually make it the night before to let it set properly in the fridge. The flavors also develop better overnight.
Do I need a water bath for this recipe?
I find it helps prevent cracking, but if I skip it, I just make sure not to overbake and let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven.
Can I use a pre-made crust?
If I’m short on time, I use a store-bought graham cracker crust, though I prefer making it from scratch for better flavor and texture.
How do I get clean slices when cutting?
I always run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and cut. I repeat this between each slice for that clean, bakery-style look.
Conclusion
Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake is a true crowd-pleaser that combines creamy, crunchy, and chocolaty layers into one unforgettable dessert. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and absolutely worth the chill time. I love serving it at gatherings or whenever I crave something special.
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Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake
This Boston Cream Pie Cheesecake is a rich and decadent fusion of two classic desserts, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cheesecake center, and glossy chocolate ganache topping. It’s an indulgent showstopper perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Unsalted butter, melted
- Granulated sugar
- Cream cheese
- Granulated sugar (for filling)
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Heavy cream
- Semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the bottom of a springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.
- Pour filling over cooled crust and bake for 50–60 minutes, until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- To make ganache, heat heavy cream until simmering, pour over chocolate chips, and stir until smooth.
- Spread ganache over the chilled cheesecake and let set slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use chocolate cookie crumbs instead of graham crackers for a richer crust.
- Swap in low-fat cream cheese and reduce sugar for a lighter version.
- Add a layer of vanilla pastry cream for extra Boston Cream Pie flavor.
- Store leftovers in the fridge or freeze slices for longer storage.
- Use a hot, dry knife for clean cheesecake slices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg