If you are a fan of custard desserts, you have probably heard of Boston cream and Bavarian cream. Both are timeless classics, but are they the same thing? While they may look similar at first glance, there are actually significant differences between the two.
Boston cream is a type of pastry cream that is often used in cakes, pies, and other desserts. It is named after the city of Boston, where it was first used to fill donuts. Bavarian cream, on the other hand, is a light custard that is often flavored with vanilla or chocolate and served on its own or as a filling for pastries. In this article, we will delve deeper into the aspects that distinguish these two delicious custard-filled desserts.
Understanding the Difference Between Boston Cream and Bavarian Cream
Boston Cream and Bavarian Cream are two of the most loved cream fillings used in a wide range of desserts. At first glance, they may seem the same due to their similar texture and ingredients. However, there are some key differences that set them apart.
Boston Cream, also referred to as pastry cream, is a vanilla custard that is thickened with cornstarch or flour and cooked on the stovetop. It is then cooled and poured into pastries, like doughnuts or eclairs, and topped with a chocolate glaze. Bavarian Cream, on the other hand, is a much richer variation of pastry cream. It is made of custard mixed with heavy cream and gelatin and then chilled to set. Bavarian Cream is usually lighter, fluffier, and creamier than Boston Cream, which makes it ideal for cakes, pies, and trifles. In summary, while Boston Cream and Bavarian Cream are both delicious, they are very different in terms of texture, ingredients, and preparation methods.
What Makes Boston Cream Different from Bavarian Cream?
Boston cream and Bavarian cream are two popular types of cream used in pastries and desserts, but they are not the same thing. While both are creamy and delicious, each has its distinctive flavor and texture.
Boston cream is a type of pastry cream made with milk, sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch, which is then mixed with vanilla and covered with chocolate ganache. It is typically used in Boston cream pies, donuts, and cakes. In contrast, Bavarian cream is a type of custard that is made with milk, egg yolks, sugar, and cream. It is then flavored with vanilla, rum or other liqueurs and lightened with whipped cream. Unlike Boston cream, Bavarian cream is typically used as a filling for cakes and pastries rather than as a topping.
The Origins of Boston Cream and Bavarian Cream
Boston cream and Bavarian cream are two popular dessert creams with similar names. But they are not the same thing. Boston cream is a vanilla custard cream used primarily in the famous Boston Cream Pie. It is made with egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, milk, and vanilla extract. Once the custard is cooked, it is covered with a layer of chocolate ganache.
Bavarian cream, on the other hand, is a rich custard cream that uses heavy cream in addition to the traditional egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and milk. The cream is usually flavored with liqueurs such as Grand Marnier or Kirschwasser. The mixture is cooked and then set in molds to create a smooth and silky texture. Both creams are delicious in their own right, but it’s important to understand the difference between the two before ordering or making your favorite dessert.
Popular Uses of Bavarian Cream and Boston Cream
Bavarian cream and Boston cream are two distinct types of pastry cream that are often used in different ways. Bavarian cream is a light and fluffy custard that is often flavored with vanilla, chocolate, or fruit puree. It is usually used as a filling for cakes, pastries, and donuts, but can also be served as a dessert on its own.
On the other hand, Boston cream is a thick and rich custard that is flavored with vanilla and often contains a layer of chocolate ganache on top. It is most commonly used as a filling for Boston cream pies, donuts, and cupcakes. However, it can also be used as a filling or frosting for other types of cakes and pastries. Both Bavarian cream and Boston cream are delicious and versatile pastry creams that can be used in a variety of desserts and baked goods.
Unique Flavors and Textures in Boston Cream and Bavarian Cream
Boston Cream and Bavarian Cream are two popular cream varieties that are often confused with each other. While both have a similar creamy texture, they differ in taste and texture. Boston cream usually consists of a vanilla pastry cream filling and a chocolate glaze while Bavarian cream is a lighter and silkier cream made with whipped cream, vanilla, and gelatin.
Boston cream, owing to its chocolate glaze, has a chocolatey and sweeter taste. The thick and decadent chocolate glaze packs in the flavor, giving the cream a rich taste. On the other hand, Bavarian cream is lighter and has a mellow taste. The whipped cream adds a soft and fluffy texture, while the gelatin provides a smoother consistency that is less sweet than Boston cream. So, if you like chocolate and want something sweeter, go for Boston cream. If you prefer a lighter and less sweet option, Bavarian cream is the way to go.
Recipe Comparison: How to Make Boston Cream and Bavarian Cream
When it comes to comparing Boston Cream and Bavarian Cream, the recipe is a great place to start. While both creams share some similarities, there are some key differences in the ingredients and preparation methods.
To make Boston Cream, you’ll need pastry cream, chocolate glaze, and sponge cake or doughnuts. The pastry cream is made by whisking together eggs, sugar, cornstarch, milk, and vanilla extract over medium heat until the mixture thickens. For the chocolate glaze, you’ll need to melt chocolate and butter together before adding in heavy cream. Once the glaze has cooled, you can assemble by placing cream between two cake or donut halves, before pouring over the glaze. Bavarian Cream, on the other hand, uses gelatin to give it a light and airy texture. The custard is made with a vanilla bean and milk mixture that is then combined with beaten egg whites and heavy cream. The mixture is then poured into a mold and left to set before serving.
Which One is Better? A Debate on Boston Cream vs Bavarian Cream
The debate on Boston Cream vs Bavarian Cream is one that has been raging on for years among pastry enthusiasts. Both are popular pastry fillings, but they differ in composition, texture, and flavor. Boston Cream filling is vanilla-based custard that is thickened with cornstarch, while Bavarian Cream is a light custard that is thickened with gelatin and whipped cream.
Some people prefer Boston Cream because of its thicker consistency and stronger vanilla flavor, while others prefer Bavarian Cream because of its lighter texture and subtle taste. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference. Some people might even prefer a combination of the two, by incorporating elements of both fillings into a single recipe. Whether Boston Cream or Bavarian Cream is better, ultimately depends on the individual tastes of the pastry consumer.
Verdict
Boston cream and Bavarian cream may seem similar due to their names and creamy texture, but they are not the same. Both creams are made with a custard base, but their ingredients and preparation methods differ. Boston cream is made with a combination of pastry cream and chocolate glaze, while Bavarian cream includes whipped cream and gelatin in addition to pastry cream.
It is important to note the distinction between these two creams to avoid confusion when baking or ordering desserts. Whether you have a preference for one over the other or enjoy them both, understanding the difference can enhance your culinary experience and appreciation for their unique flavors and textures. So next time you encounter a dessert with either of these creams, you can confidently indulge in its deliciousness knowing the distinction.