Why You’ll Love Boston Cream Pie Cookies Recipe

Boston Cream Pie Cookies combine tender, subtly sweet cookies with a silky vanilla filling and a smooth chocolate topping. They’re impressive enough for guests but easy enough to make on a weekend afternoon, and they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

From the Taste of Home–style version (makes about 19 cookies):

1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons butter, softened
1 large egg, room temperature
1 1/2 cups cold whole milk
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 3/4 cups all‑purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
2/3 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped

Directions

Prepare cookie dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, pudding mix, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture.
Add liquids: Stir in the milk and heavy whipping cream until a soft dough forms.
Shape and bake cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment, spacing them apart. Bake in a preheated oven (about 350°F / 175°C) until the edges are set and cookies are lightly golden. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Make ganache: Heat the heavy cream until steaming and pour it over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit briefly, then whisk until smooth. Let the ganache cool slightly so it thickens but remains pourable.
Assemble: Spoon or pipe a dollop of the vanilla filling into the center of each cookie, then drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top. Let the ganache set before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 19 cookies
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes (including cooling time)

Variations

Mini cookie cups: Press dough into a mini muffin pan for bite‑sized versions and adjust baking time slightly.
Pastry cream swap: Replace instant pudding filling with homemade cooked pastry cream for a richer interior.
Toppings twist: Instead of chocolate ganache, top with a simple chocolate glaze or sprinkle powdered sugar for a different look.

Storage/Reheating

Store: Keep finished cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Let chilled cookies sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving so the filling softens slightly.
Freeze: It’s best not to freeze assembled cookies because the cream and ganache can change texture. You can freeze baked but unfilled cookie bases and assemble them later.

FAQs

What makes Boston Cream Pie Cookies different from regular cookies?

Boston Cream Pie Cookies are sandwich cookies inspired by the classic dessert. They have a soft, cake‑like base, a creamy vanilla center, and a chocolate topping that together echo the flavors of Boston cream pie.

Can I use low‑fat milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, you can use low‑fat milk, but whole milk will give a richer, creamier flavor and texture.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

For this version, chilling the dough isn’t necessary, but you can chill it briefly if you find it too soft to handle.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

You can prepare the vanilla filling ahead of time and refrigerate it covered until ready to assemble the cookies.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Freezing assembled cookies isn’t recommended because the cream filling and ganache can separate or become grainy, but you can freeze unfilled cookie bases and fill them later.

What can I use instead of instant pudding mix?

You can make a cooked pastry cream from scratch if you prefer — it will be a bit more work but delivers rich flavor.

How do I make the chocolate ganache smoother?

Heat the cream until it just begins to steam, then pour over the chocolate and let it sit before whisking gently. This helps the ganache become smooth and glossy.

Are these cookies suitable for parties?

Yes! Their fun presentation and classic flavor make them perfect for gatherings or holidays.

Can I make these dairy‑free?

Yes, you can try dairy‑free butter, milk alternatives, and dairy‑free chocolate — the texture and taste will be slightly different but still delicious.

Conclusion

Boston Cream Pie Cookies are a delicious twist on a beloved dessert that deliver soft cookie bases, creamy centers, and rich chocolate toppings in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe brings the flavors of Boston cream pie to your kitchen in a fun and shareable form.

Boston Cream Pie Cookies