Celebrated on 10/23/2026
Despite its name, Boston cream pie is actually a cake, not a pie. It was created by French chef M. Sanzian at Boston's Parker House Hotel in 1856 and became the official state dessert of Massachusetts in 1996.
National Boston Cream Pie Day is celebrated annually on October 23. The exact origins of the observance are unclear, but it was likely established by food enthusiasts or dessert brands to honor this iconic American dessert. The day gained official recognition in 1996 when Massachusetts declared the Boston cream pie as the state dessert, solidifying its cultural significance.
Originally created in 1856 at the Parker House Hotel (now Omni Parker House) in Boston, the dessert was first called "Parker House chocolate cream pie." Over time, it became known as Boston cream pie. Today, it is celebrated with bakeries offering specials, home bakers making their own versions, and social media posts sharing recipes and photos. The dessert's popularity has led to variations like Boston cream donuts and cupcakes.
Approximately 1 in 4 Americans have tried Boston cream pie at least once. The Parker House Hotel still serves the original recipe, using chocolate ganache instead of a glaze. * National Boston Cream Pie Day is part of a larger trend of food holidays, with over 175 national food days celebrated in the US each year.
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