Easy Boston Cream Pie Hawaiian Rolls
Soft, sweet rolls filled with creamy vanilla pudding and topped with silky chocolate ganache.
Introduction
Boston Cream Pie is a classic American dessert that has delighted generations with its combination of sponge cake, custard filling, and chocolate topping. But what if you could capture all that flavor in a bite‑sized, easy‑to‑make treat? That’s where these Easy Boston Cream Pie Hawaiian Rolls come in.
Using store‑bought Hawaiian rolls as the base, instant pudding for the filling, and a quick ganache for the topping, this recipe transforms a beloved dessert into a fun, shareable snack. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings, these rolls deliver all the indulgence of Boston Cream Pie without the fuss.
Ingredients Breakdown
24 Hawaiian rolls (one package) – Sweet, fluffy rolls that serve as the base.
1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix – Quick custard substitute.
1 ½ cups cold milk – Activates pudding mix.
½ tsp vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
½ cup whipped cream or thawed whipped topping – Lightens filling.
½ cup heavy whipping cream – Base for ganache.
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips – Rich chocolate topping.
Powdered sugar or berries (optional) – Garnish for presentation.
Step ‑by‑Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Rolls
Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke a hole in each roll.
Wiggle gently to create a pocket without breaking through.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Whisk pudding mix, cold milk, and vanilla for 2 minutes until thickened.
Fold in whipped cream.
Chill 5–10 minutes to firm.
Step 3: Fill the Rolls
Transfer filling to piping bag.
Pipe into rolls until just full.
Step 4: Make the Ganache
Heat cream until steaming.
Pour over chocolate chips. Cover and rest 5 minutes.
Stir until smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Dip & Serve
Dip tops of rolls into ganache.
Place on platter.
Garnish with powdered sugar or berries.
Baking Science
Instant pudding mix thickens quickly thanks to modified starches.
Whipped cream adds air, making filling light.
Ganache forms when hot cream melts chocolate, creating a glossy emulsion.
Hawaiian rolls provide sweetness and soft texture, mimicking sponge cake.
Tips for Success
Chill filling before piping for easier handling.
Use semisweet chocolate for balanced ganache.
Don’t overfill rolls — they should feel plump, not bursting.
Serve rolls fresh for best texture.
Variations
Mocha Version: Add espresso powder to ganache.
Fruit Twist: Add sliced strawberries inside rolls.
Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on ganache.
Holiday Version: Garnish with festive sprinkles.
Mini Dessert Cups: Use filling and ganache in phyllo shells instead of rolls.
Serving Ideas
Arrange on tiered platter for parties.
Pair with coffee or tea.
Serve alongside fruit salad for balance.
Package in boxes for edible gifts.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store covered up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended — pudding loses texture.
Make‑Ahead: Fill rolls and refrigerate, then dip in ganache before serving.
Nutrition (per roll, approx.)
Calories: ~160
Protein: ~3g
Fat: ~8g
Carbs: ~20g
Extended Blog Content (to reach 2500–3000 words)
History of Boston Cream Pie
Despite its name, Boston Cream Pie is actually a cake. Created in the mid‑1800s at Boston’s Parker House Hotel, it combined sponge cake, custard, and chocolate glaze. It became so iconic that Massachusetts named it the official state dessert in 1996.
Why Hawaiian Rolls Work
Hawaiian rolls are slightly sweet and incredibly soft, making them the perfect shortcut for sponge cake. Their small size makes them ideal for bite‑sized desserts.
Pairing Suggestions
Drink Pairing: Cappuccino complements creamy filling.
Wine Pairing: A sweet Riesling pairs with chocolate.
Tea Pairing: Earl Grey enhances vanilla notes.
FAQs
Can I use cook‑and‑serve pudding? Yes, but chill thoroughly before filling.
Can I make ganache ahead? Yes, reheat gently before dipping.
Can I use brioche rolls instead? Absolutely — they’re similar in texture.
Conclusion
These Easy Boston Cream Pie Hawaiian Rolls are a playful, approachable twist on a classic dessert. With their creamy filling, glossy ganache, and festive presentation, they’re perfect for gatherings, holidays, or everyday indulgence.