What is the Difference Between Bavarian Cream and Boston Cream

The main difference between Bavarian cream and Boston cream is that Bavarian cream has a thicker and creamier consistency than Boston cream.

Bavarian Cream and Boston Cream are two delicious desserts loved by many. While they share similarities, they also have distinct characteristics.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Bavarian Cream  
     – Definition, Features
2. What is Boston Cream
     – Definition, Features
3. Similarities Between Bavarian Cream and Boston Cream
     – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Bavarian Cream and Boston Cream
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Bavarian Cream, Boston Cream

What is Bavarian Cream

Bavarian cream, also known as Crème Bavaroise, is a classic dessert recipe from France dating back to the 19th century. This dessert is made by combining Crème Anglaise (a smooth pouring custard), gelatin, and whipped cream. You can enjoy Bavarian Cream in various serving options. It can be enjoyed as a standalone dessert, served in individual cups resembling a mousse, or set in a mold similar to a Panna Cotta. Furthermore, it serves as a cream filling and goes well with a wide range of food, including doughnuts and cakes.

Recipe – Bavarian Cream

To make Bavarian Cream, you will need three main ingredients: Crème Anglaise (pouring custard), gelatin, and whipped cream. To prepare the Crème Anglaise, heat milk and sugar in a saucepan until it reaches a gentle simmer. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks until they become pale and creamy. Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks while whisking continuously. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Next, prepare the gelatin by following the instructions on the package. Once ready, gently stir it into the cooled Crème Anglaise until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the Crème Anglaise mixture, ensuring it is fully incorporated. Pour the Bavarian Cream into individual cups or a mold of your choice. Then, refrigerate for several hours or until set. Once set, you can serve the Bavarian Cream as is or use it as a filling for pastries, desserts, or cakes.

What is Boston Cream

Boston cream is a filling commonly used in pastries, doughnuts, pies, and cakes. Cornstarch is a key ingredient in Boston cream and helps it thicken and gives it a smooth and silky texture. Unlike Bavarian cream, Boston cream is not typically eaten on its own. The Boston cream pie is perhaps the most famous recipe featuring this delectable cream. Additionally, Boston cream donuts and cakes are popular variations.

Recipe – Boston Cream

To make Boston cream, you will need a few key ingredients: milk, sugar, eggs, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and chocolate for the glaze. First, heat milk in a saucepan until it begins to steam. Whisk together sugar, eggs, and cornstarch in a separate bowl until well combined. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. Next, return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and reaches a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Transfer the cream to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap touches the cream’s surface to prevent skin formation. Refrigerate until chilled and set, usually for a few hours.

Similarities Between Bavarian Cream and Boston Cream

• Bavarian cream and Boston cream are creamy desserts.
• They are often served in pastry or cake form.
• Both are also popular choices for filling pastries or donuts.

Difference Between Bavarian Cream and Boston Cream

Definition

Bavarian cream is a rich, smooth custard made with eggs and heavy cream, while Boston cream is a pastry filled with a creamy vanilla custard and topped with a chocolate glaze.

Ingredients

Bavarian cream is made with cream, gelatin, milk, eggs, and sugar, while Boston cream is made with milk, sugar, eggs, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and chocolate.

Consistency

While Bavarian cream has a thicker and creamier consistency, Boston cream has a thinner and more runny texture.

Use

Bavarian cream can be eaten as a dessert on its own, served like a mousse or Panna Cotta, or as a creamy filling for various pastries, desserts, and cakes. Boston cream is not typically eaten on its own and is usually used with pies or doughnuts.

Conclusion

The main difference between Bavarian cream and Boston cream is that Bavarian cream has a thicker and creamier consistency than Boston cream. Moreover, Bavarian cream can be eaten as a dessert on its own, while Boston cream cannot be typically eaten on its own.

Reference:

1. “Bavarian Cream (Crème Bavaroise).” A Baking Journey.
2. “Boston Cream Pie.” Wikipedia. Wikipedia Foundation.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Bavarian cream, strawberries, caramel sauce, spoon” By SKopp – Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “DD-Boston-Cream-Donut” By Evan-Amos – Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia