These Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic Boston Cream Pie. Each cupcake is filled with creamy vanilla custard, topped with rich chocolate ganache, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Makes: 12 cupcakes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter , softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Vanilla Custard Filling:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for shine
- Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Cupcakes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard Filling
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not boil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
- Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens and comes to a boil (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
- Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Step 3: Fill the Cupcakes
- Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a small paring knife or a cupcake corer to cut a hole in the center of each cupcake, leaving a small rim at the bottom.
- Spoon or pipe the chilled vanilla custard into the holes, filling them generously. You can also use a piping bag fitted with a round tip for precision.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave until it just begins to simmer.
- Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir gently until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Add the optional butter and stir until glossy.
- Let the ganache cool slightly (about 5-10 minutes) until it thickens but is still pourable.
Step 5: Assemble and Decorate
- Dip the tops of the filled cupcakes into the chocolate ganache, ensuring they’re fully coated. Alternatively, spoon the ganache over the cupcakes for a more rustic look.
- Let the ganache set for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t skip chilling the custard: This ensures it’s firm enough to hold its shape when piped or spooned into the cupcakes.
- Use room-temperature ingredients: This helps the batter come together smoothly and prevents curdling in the custard.
- Customize the flavors: Add a splash of liqueur (like rum or Grand Marnier) to the custard or ganache for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per cupcake):
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: ~5g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fat: ~18g
Enjoy these Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes as a decadent treat! They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply indulging in a mini dessert masterpiece. 🧁✨