National Boston Cream Pie Day
Celebrate National Boston Cream Pie Day on October 23!
On October 23, dessert lovers across the United States can celebrate Boston Cream Pie, a classic treat with roots in Boston. Despite its name, it’s a cake—not a pie. So, grab your forks and enjoy a little history and some delicious ways to celebrate this sweet day.
A Brief History of Boston Cream Pie
According to GBH, Chef Augustine François Anezin and his staff created Boston Cream Pie at Boston’s Parker House Hotel in the 1860s. The hotel, now known as Omni Parker House, is credited with the dessert’s creation. Omni Parker House historian Susan Wilson explained that it was called a “pie” because commercial kitchens at the time often had pie pans rather than cake tins.
GBH describes the classic dessert as sponge cake with vanilla custard and a thin layer of chocolate ganache. Massachusetts has recognized Boston Cream Pie as its official state dessert since 1996.
Why Boston Cream Pie Matters
Boston Cream Pie is a beloved treat with a special connection to the city where it was created. Its simple combination of sponge cake, vanilla custard, and chocolate ganache makes it a sweet way to celebrate Boston’s culinary heritage with family and friends.
Fun Facts About Boston Cream Pie
- Created at a Boston Hotel: According to GBH, Chef Augustine François Anezin and his staff made the dessert at the Parker House Hotel in the 1860s.
- A Pie by Name: Omni Parker House historian Susan Wilson explained that the name reflects the pie pans commonly used in commercial kitchens at the time.
- Massachusetts’ Official Dessert: Boston Cream Pie has been the state dessert since 1996, according to GBH.
- A Simple Classic: GBH describes its familiar combination as sponge cake, vanilla custard, and a small amount of chocolate ganache.
Ways to Celebrate National Boston Cream Pie Day
Celebrating National Boston Cream Pie Day can be as simple or as extravagant as you wish. Here are some fun ideas:
- Bake Your Own: Gather your family in the kitchen and make a homemade Boston Cream Pie. It can be a fun activity to share, and there’s nothing like enjoying a dessert you made together.
- Visit a Local Bakery: Treat yourself to a slice from a local bakery. Supporting local businesses is always a sweet way to celebrate.
- Host a Tasting: Share Boston Cream Pie with family or friends and enjoy comparing everyone’s favorite bites.
- Try a Creative Twist: Make mini Boston Cream Pies or cupcakes inspired by the classic dessert for a party, gathering, or treat at home.
When is National Boston Cream Pie Day?
National Boston Cream Pie Day: Every year on October 23.
| Year | Date | Day of the week |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | October 23 | Friday |
| 2027 | October 23 | Saturday |
| 2028 | October 23 | Monday |
| 2029 | October 23 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | October 23 | Wednesday |
Reviewed by the Holiday List editorial team on October 14, 2026 · Last updated October 14, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
When is National Boston Cream Pie Day in 2026?
National Boston Cream Pie Day is on Friday, October 23, 2026. After that, it falls on Saturday, October 23, 2027. Every year on October 23.
Is National Boston Cream Pie Day a public holiday?
No. National Boston Cream Pie Day is an observance, not an official public holiday, so schools and businesses stay open as usual.
How did Boston Cream Pie originate?
According to GBH, Chef Augustine François Anezin and his staff created it at Boston’s Parker House Hotel in the 1860s. It was called a “pie” because commercial kitchens often used pie pans rather than cake tins.
What is Boston Cream Pie made of?
Despite its name, Boston Cream Pie is a cake made with sponge cake, vanilla custard, and a thin layer of chocolate ganache. Massachusetts has recognized it as its official state dessert since 1996.
How can you celebrate National Boston Cream Pie Day?
Bake a Boston Cream Pie, visit a local bakery, or share slices with friends and family for a tasting. You could also make mini pies or cupcakes inspired by the classic dessert.
Sources
✓ Date matches GBH: National Boston Cream Pie Day celebrates the state's official dessert (checked automatically on October 12, 2026).
