If you’re a fan of cupcakes and love the classic taste of Boston cream pie, then you’re in for a treat! Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the traditional dessert, combining soft vanilla cake with a creamy filling and topped with rich chocolate ganache. These little treats are perfect for any occasion, and they pack all the flavors of the original pie into a convenient cupcake form. Let’s dive into the world of Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes and learn how to make them from scratch!
Key Takeaways
- Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes are a mini version of the classic dessert, featuring fluffy cupcakes filled with pastry cream and topped with chocolate ganache.
- Use high-quality ingredients like fresh eggs and premium chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
- Follow a simple step-by-step process for mixing, filling, and baking to ensure perfect cupcakes every time.
- Make your own vanilla pastry cream for an authentic taste; it’s worth the extra effort!
- These cupcakes can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, making them a great make-ahead option for parties.
Understanding Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes
A Brief History of Boston Cream Pie
Did you know that Boston Cream Pie isn’t actually a pie? It’s more like a cake! The original Boston Cream Pie dates back to the 1800s and was created at Boston’s Parker House Hotel. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert: two layers of sponge cake filled with creamy custard and topped with chocolate ganache. Think of these cupcakes as a fun, portable twist on that classic. You’re taking a bite of history with every delicious cupcake!
What Makes These Cupcakes Special
So, what sets these cupcakes apart from your average treat? It’s all about capturing the essence of the original Boston Cream Pie in a smaller, more manageable form. You get the same delightful combination of flavors and textures: the light, airy cupcake, the rich vanilla pastry cream filling, and the smooth chocolate ganache. Each component plays a vital role in creating a harmonious balance that’s both comforting and indulgent. Plus, let’s be honest, cupcakes are just plain fun! They’re perfect for parties, gatherings, or even just a little self-indulgence.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Achieving the perfect balance of flavors is key to making these cupcakes truly shine. You want the sweetness of the cake to complement the richness of the pastry cream and the slight bitterness of the chocolate ganache. It’s a delicate dance, but when you get it right, the result is pure magic. Think of it like this:
- The cupcake provides a light, airy base.
- The pastry cream adds a creamy, vanilla-infused sweetness.
- The chocolate ganache brings a decadent, slightly bitter counterpoint.
The goal is to create a symphony of flavors that work together in perfect harmony. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of chocolate or vanilla to find your ideal balance. And remember, taste as you go! That’s the best way to ensure that your cupcakes are exactly to your liking.
Ultimately, you’re aiming for a cupcake that’s not too sweet, not too rich, but just right. You can find some apple pie biscuits to compare the flavor profiles.
Essential Ingredients for Success
Let’s talk ingredients! You can’t make amazing Boston Cream Pie cupcakes without the right stuff. It’s like trying to paint a masterpiece with dull brushes – possible, but not ideal. We’re aiming for cupcake perfection, so let’s make sure we have everything we need.
Choosing the Right Flour
Flour is the backbone of your cupcakes. The type of flour you select will significantly impact the texture of your final product. For these cupcakes, all-purpose flour works great. It strikes a good balance between structure and tenderness. Cake flour, with its lower protein content, will give you an even softer crumb, but might make the cupcakes a little too delicate to handle the filling and ganache. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try a blend of all-purpose and cake flour to get the best of both worlds. Just make sure you measure your flour correctly!
Selecting Quality Chocolate
Chocolate ganache is a key component, so don’t skimp on the chocolate! Go for a good quality chocolate that you enjoy eating on its own. The better the chocolate, the better the ganache. Consider using semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, depending on your preference. Bittersweet will give you a richer, less sweet flavor, while semi-sweet is a good middle ground. Avoid using chocolate chips for the ganache, as they often contain stabilizers that can prevent them from melting smoothly. Here’s a quick guide:
- Semi-sweet: Balanced sweetness, versatile.
- Bittersweet: Rich, less sweet, intense chocolate flavor.
- Dark Chocolate: Even less sweet, bold flavor.
The Importance of Fresh Eggs
Eggs play a vital role in binding the ingredients together and adding moisture to your cupcakes. Fresh eggs will give you the best results. They whip up better, creating a lighter and airier batter. If you’re not sure how old your eggs are, you can do the float test: place the egg in a bowl of water. If it sinks and lies flat, it’s fresh. If it sinks but stands on one end, it’s still good but should be used soon. If it floats, it’s past its prime and should be discarded. Using fresh eggs can really make a difference in the final texture and rise of your cupcakes. You can also check out an ingredient weight chart for more information.
Using high-quality ingredients is the first step to baking success. Don’t be afraid to spend a little extra on things like chocolate and eggs – it will be worth it in the end!
Step-by-Step Cupcake Preparation
Mixing the Batter
Alright, let’s get started with the cupcake batter! First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, prepare your cupcake tin with liners. This prevents the cupcakes from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Now, in a large bowl, combine your yellow cake mix, water, melted butter, and eggs.
- Make sure your butter is melted but not hot.
- Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough cupcakes.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
Filling the Cupcakes
Once your cupcakes are baked and completely cooled, it’s time to add that luscious vanilla pastry cream filling. There are a couple of ways to do this. You can use a small knife or a cupcake corer to create a well in the center of each cupcake. Alternatively, you can use a piping bag fitted with a wide tip to inject the filling.
I find that using a piping bag gives you more control and creates a cleaner look, but either method works just fine. Just be sure not to overfill, or you’ll have a sticky mess on your hands!
Baking to Perfection
Now that your batter is ready, it’s time to fill those cupcake liners! Aim to fill each liner about two-thirds full. This gives the cupcakes enough room to rise without overflowing. Pop the cupcake tin into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 18-20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, they’re ready! Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling them completely is key before adding the filling and ganache.
Here’s a quick guide:
Step | Time |
---|---|
Preheat Oven | 350°F (175°C) |
Baking Time | 18-20 mins |
Cooling Time | Complete |
Creating the Vanilla Pastry Cream
Pastry cream is the heart of a Boston Cream Pie Cupcake, so getting it right is key. It’s that luscious, creamy filling that makes every bite so satisfying. Don’t be intimidated; with a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be whipping up perfect pastry cream in no time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, make sure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. This will make the whole process smoother and prevent any last-minute scrambling. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Milk (whole milk works best for richness)
- Granulated sugar
- Cornstarch (for thickening)
- Salt (just a pinch to balance the sweetness)
- Large eggs (for richness and structure)
- Vanilla extract (the better the quality, the better the flavor!)
- Butter (unsalted, to control the salt level)
Cooking Techniques for Creamy Filling
Now for the fun part! Here’s how to cook your pastry cream to perfection:
- Combine Milk, Sugar, and Salt: In a saucepan, combine most of the milk (save a little for later), sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Don’t let it boil!
- Whisk Eggs and Cornstarch: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, the remaining milk, and cornstarch until smooth. This mixture will help thicken the cream.
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly pour a little of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. This is called tempering and prevents the eggs from scrambling. Then, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk.
- Cook and Thicken: Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This usually takes a few minutes. Be patient and keep whisking to prevent lumps!
- Remove from Heat: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth and glossy.
Tips for Achieving the Right Consistency
Getting the right consistency is crucial for your pastry cream. Here are a few tips to help you achieve that perfect creamy texture:
- Strain the Cream: For an extra-smooth pastry cream, pour it through a fine-mesh sieve after cooking. This will remove any lumps or cooked egg bits.
- Chill Properly: After cooking, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pastry cream to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set.
- Adjust Thickness: If your pastry cream is too thick, whisk in a little extra milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can try cooking it a bit longer, but be careful not to overcook it.
Making pastry cream can seem intimidating, but it’s really all about technique. Don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust the recipe to your liking. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process!
Making the Chocolate Ganache
Let’s talk about the chocolate ganache – the crowning glory of your Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes! This part is surprisingly simple, but it makes a huge difference in the final result. A glossy, rich ganache takes these cupcakes from good to amazing. Don’t be intimidated; with a few tips, you’ll be drizzling like a pro in no time.
Choosing Your Chocolate
The type of chocolate you pick really matters. Semi-sweet chocolate is the classic choice, giving you that perfect balance of sweetness and chocolate intensity. But feel free to experiment! Dark chocolate will give you a richer, less sweet ganache, while milk chocolate will be sweeter and milder. Just make sure you’re using good quality chocolate – it’ll melt better and taste better. I usually go for chocolate bars and chop them up, but good quality chocolate chips work too. Remember, the better the chocolate, the better the ganache flavor.
Melting Techniques for Smooth Ganache
Okay, here’s where the magic happens. You’ve got a couple of options for melting your chocolate, and both work great. First, there’s the double boiler method. If you don’t have a double boiler, just put a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Add your chocolate and heavy cream to the bowl, and stir gently until everything is melted and smooth. The second option is the microwave. Heat the cream first until it almost boils. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute to soften the chocolate. Then, whisk it all together until it’s smooth and glossy. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate in the microwave, or it can seize up. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s just melted. Here’s a quick comparison:
Method | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Double Boiler | Gentle, even heat; less risk of burning | Takes longer; requires specific equipment |
Microwave | Quick and easy | Risk of overheating; requires close attention |
How to Drizzle and Decorate
Now for the fun part! Once your ganache is smooth and slightly cooled (but still pourable), it’s time to drizzle. The easiest way to do this is to dip the tops of your cupcakes directly into the ganache. Let the excess drip off, and then set them on a wire rack to set. If you want a more controlled drizzle, you can use a spoon or a piping bag. For a simple drizzle, just flick the spoon back and forth over the cupcakes. For a fancier look, pipe the ganache in a spiral pattern. You can also add some decorations while the ganache is still wet, like sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder. Get creative and have fun with it! Remember, there’s no wrong way to decorate cupcakes.
Don’t worry if your first batch of ganache isn’t perfect. It takes a little practice to get the consistency just right. If it’s too thick, add a little more cream. If it’s too thin, add a little more melted chocolate. And if all else fails, just remember that even imperfect ganache tastes delicious on a cupcake!
Assembling Your Cupcakes
Now for the fun part! You’ve baked your cupcakes, whipped up the pastry cream, and crafted that luscious chocolate ganache. It’s time to bring all those elements together to create the ultimate Boston Cream Pie Cupcake experience. Let’s get started!
Filling Techniques for a Mess-Free Experience
Okay, so you’ve got your cooled cupcakes and your pastry cream ready to go. The key here is to be gentle and patient. You don’t want to end up with a cupcake explosion! Here’s how I like to do it:
- Prepare a piping bag: Fit a piping bag with a large round tip. If you don’t have one, a sturdy zip-top bag with a corner snipped off will work just fine. Fill it with your beautiful vanilla pastry cream.
- Insert the tip: Gently insert the piping tip into the center of the cupcake, going about halfway down.
- Squeeze and lift: Apply gentle, even pressure to the piping bag, filling the cupcake with cream. You’ll feel a slight resistance as it fills. Stop squeezing just before the cream reaches the top to avoid overflow.
- Wipe away any excess: If any cream does escape, simply wipe it away with a clean paper towel.
Practice makes perfect! Don’t worry if your first few cupcakes aren’t perfect. You’ll quickly get the hang of it. The goal is to get a good amount of that creamy filling inside without making a mess.
Topping with Ganache
With your cupcakes filled, it’s time for that glorious chocolate ganache. This is what really makes these cupcakes look and taste like a Boston Cream Pie! Here’s how to get that perfect ganache topping:
- Make sure your ganache is ready: It should be smooth, glossy, and pourable, but not too runny. If it’s too thick, gently warm it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. If it’s too thin, let it sit at room temperature for a bit to thicken up.
- Dip or spoon: You can either dip the tops of the filled cupcakes directly into the ganache, or you can spoon the ganache over each cupcake. I prefer dipping because it gives a nice, even coating.
- Let it set: Place the ganache-topped cupcakes on a wire rack to allow the excess ganache to drip off. This will also help the ganache set up nicely. You can place a sheet of parchment paper underneath the rack to catch the drips for easy cleanup.
Presentation Tips for a Stunning Display
Okay, your cupcakes are filled and topped with ganache. Now, let’s make them look amazing! Here are a few simple presentation tips:
- A dusting of powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and visual appeal.
- Chocolate shavings: Sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top for an extra chocolatey touch.
- A swirl of whipped cream: Add a small swirl of whipped cream on top just before serving for a classic Boston Cream Pie look.
And there you have it! Beautiful, delicious Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes, ready to impress. Enjoy!
Storage and Serving Suggestions
How to Store Leftover Cupcakes
So, you’ve baked these amazing Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes, and somehow, you have leftovers? First of all, congratulations on your self-control! Now, let’s talk storage. The best way to keep these cupcakes fresh is in the refrigerator. Because of the pastry cream filling, leaving them at room temperature for too long isn’t a great idea.
- Place the cupcakes in an airtight container. This prevents them from drying out or absorbing any weird fridge odors. Nobody wants onion-flavored cupcakes!
- If you don’t have an airtight container, a resealable plastic bag works too. Just gently squeeze out any excess air.
- For optimal freshness, try to eat them within 3-5 days. They’ll still be good after that, but the cake might start to get a little dry.
If you want to get ahead, you can actually prepare the cupcakes, filling, and ganache separately and store them in the fridge. Then, assemble them right before you need them. This is a lifesaver if you’re prepping for a party!
Best Serving Temperatures
Okay, so you’ve got your cupcakes stored properly. Now, how do you serve them? Here’s a little secret: temperature matters! While they’re delicious straight from the fridge, letting them sit out for a bit can really enhance the flavor and texture.
- Take the cupcakes out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the cake to soften up and the filling to become creamier.
- If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes can make a difference.
- Avoid serving them piping hot. These cupcakes are best enjoyed at a cool, but not ice-cold, temperature.
Pairing Suggestions for Beverages
Want to take your Boston Cream Pie Cupcake experience to the next level? Pair them with the right beverage! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Coffee: A classic pairing! The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the cupcake perfectly. Try a coffee pairing with a light roast to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Milk: For a more kid-friendly option, or if you just want something simple and comforting, a glass of cold milk is always a winner.
- Tea: A cup of black tea or herbal tea can also be a great choice. The warmth of the tea contrasts nicely with the cool cupcake.
- Sweet Wine: A dessert wine, like a Moscato, can complement the sweetness of the cupcake. Just be careful not to choose something too overpowering.
No matter what you choose, remember that the goal is to enhance the flavor of the cupcake, not mask it. Enjoy!
Tips for Baking Success
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Okay, let’s be real – we’ve all been there. You’re following a recipe, everything seems to be going smoothly, and then BAM! Your cupcakes are flat, dry, or just plain weird. Don’t worry, it happens! One of the biggest culprits is overmixing the batter. This develops too much gluten, leading to tough cupcakes. Also, make sure your ingredients are at the right temperature. Cold butter won’t cream properly, and cold eggs can affect the batter’s consistency. Finally, avoid opening the oven door too often while baking. That sudden temperature drop can cause your cupcakes to sink. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Overmixing the batter
- Using ingredients at the wrong temperature
- Opening the oven door too much
Adjusting for Altitude
Baking at high altitude can be tricky because the air pressure is lower. This means liquids evaporate faster, and leavening agents (like baking powder) react more quickly. If you live above 3,000 feet, you might need to make a few adjustments to your recipe. Try reducing the amount of baking powder by 1/4 teaspoon, increasing the liquid by a tablespoon or two, and baking at a slightly higher temperature (about 25 degrees Fahrenheit). These small changes can make a big difference in the texture and rise of your cupcakes. You can also check out some baking guides online for more specific advice based on your altitude.
Baking Tools You Should Have
Having the right tools can make baking so much easier and more enjoyable. You don’t need to go out and buy every gadget under the sun, but there are a few essentials that every baker should have. A good set of measuring cups and spoons is a must, as is a reliable stand mixer or hand mixer. A rubber spatula is perfect for scraping down the sides of the bowl, and a wire rack is essential for cooling your cupcakes. And of course, you’ll need a good quality muffin tin and cupcake liners. Here’s a list to get you started:
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Wire rack
Don’t underestimate the power of parchment paper! Lining your muffin tin with parchment liners makes it so much easier to remove the cupcakes, and it also helps to prevent them from sticking. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
Variations on the Classic Recipe
Let’s be real, sometimes you want to shake things up a bit! The classic Boston Cream Pie cupcake is amazing, but there’s a whole world of flavor possibilities out there. Don’t be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on this beloved treat. You might just discover your new favorite cupcake!
Gluten-Free Options
Got friends or family who avoid gluten? No problem! You can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. The key is using a good quality gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that’s designed for baking and contains a mix of different flours like rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch. You might need to adjust the amount of liquid slightly, as gluten-free flours can sometimes absorb more moisture. Also, be sure to check all your other ingredients (like baking powder and vanilla extract) to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
Flavor Infusions to Try
This is where things get really fun! Think about what flavors you love and how you can incorporate them into your Boston Cream Pie cupcakes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Espresso: Add a shot of espresso to the cupcake batter for a mocha twist.
- Lemon: Zest a lemon into the pastry cream for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Almond: Use almond extract instead of vanilla in the cake and pastry cream.
You can also experiment with different extracts, spices, and even liqueurs to create unique flavor combinations. Just remember to start small and taste as you go!
Mini vs. Standard Cupcake Sizes
Deciding between mini and standard cupcake sizes really comes down to personal preference and the occasion. Mini cupcakes are great for parties and gatherings where you want people to sample a variety of treats. They’re also perfect if you’re watching your portion sizes. Standard cupcakes, on the other hand, feel a bit more substantial and are ideal for individual desserts. Baking times will vary depending on the size, so keep a close eye on them. Here’s a quick guide:
Cupcake Size | Baking Time (approx.) |
---|---|
Mini | 12-15 minutes |
Standard | 18-22 minutes |
Celebrating with Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes
Perfect Occasions for Serving
Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes? They’re not just for dessert; they’re for celebrations! Think about it: birthdays, anniversaries, even just a random Tuesday that needs a little boost. These cupcakes are fancy enough for a special occasion but easy-going enough for a casual get-together. They’re always a hit, no matter the event. I brought them to a friend’s baby shower last month, and they were gone in minutes!
Creative Ways to Gift Cupcakes
Gifting cupcakes is an art, and Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes are your masterpiece. Forget the boring old box. Here are some ideas:
- Individual Jars: Layer cupcake pieces with extra pastry cream and ganache in cute mason jars.
- Themed Baskets: Create a baking-themed basket with the cupcakes, some fancy sprinkles, and maybe a mini whisk.
- Personalized Boxes: Decorate plain cupcake boxes with ribbons, stickers, or even hand-drawn designs.
I once made a batch for my neighbor who was having a rough week. I put them in a simple box with a handwritten note. It was a small gesture, but it really brightened her day. Sometimes, the simplest gifts mean the most.
Incorporating Cupcakes into Parties
Want to make your next party unforgettable? Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes are your secret weapon. Here’s how to make them shine:
- Cupcake Tower: Arrange the cupcakes on a tiered stand for a stunning centerpiece.
- Dessert Bar: Include them as part of a dessert bar with other treats like cookies, brownies, and fruit.
- DIY Topping Station: Set up a station with extra ganache, sprinkles, and other toppings so guests can customize their cupcakes.
I’m telling you, these cupcakes are more than just a dessert; they’re a conversation starter and a memory maker. So go ahead, bake a batch and celebrate!
Feedback from Fellow Bakers
It’s always great to hear how others are experiencing the recipe! Baking is a journey, and sharing our successes (and learning from our not-so-successful attempts) makes it even better. Let’s see what other bakers have to say about these Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes.
Sharing Your Experience
Your voice matters! Have you tried this recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? Did you find a particular step challenging? Sharing your insights helps other bakers and can even spark new ideas for variations on the recipe. Don’t be shy; your feedback is invaluable.
What Others Are Saying
Here’s a glimpse into what other bakers are saying about this recipe:
- “I doubled the batter and made it into a cake! It was absolutely delicious!” – Patrece Cooper
- “The cupcakes were moist, and everyone loved them!” – Anonymous
- “This recipe looks so simple and so right, I can’t wait to give it a try!” – Kristina & Millie
It’s amazing to see how people adapt the recipe to suit their needs and preferences. Some bakers have successfully converted the cupcake recipe into a full-sized cake, while others have tweaked the ganache or pastry cream to their liking. These adaptations show the versatility of the recipe and the creativity of the baking community.
Encouraging New Bakers
Baking can seem intimidating at first, but with a little patience and practice, anyone can create delicious treats. Don’t be afraid to experiment and learn from your mistakes. Every baker, no matter how experienced, has had their share of baking mishaps. The key is to keep learning and keep baking! If you’re new to baking, these cupcake recipes are a great place to start. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Read the recipe carefully before you begin.
- Gather all your ingredients and equipment.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice.
- Most importantly, have fun!
Wrap-Up: Your New Favorite Treat
So there you have it! Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes are not just a fun twist on a classic dessert; they’re a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or just want to indulge yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress. The fluffy cake, creamy filling, and rich chocolate ganache come together to create a little bite of heaven. Don’t be afraid to give this recipe a try! It might take a bit of effort, but the smiles on your friends’ and family’s faces will be worth it. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes?
They are mini cupcakes filled with vanilla cream and topped with chocolate ganache, inspired by the classic Boston cream pie.
How do I make the pastry cream filling?
You can make the pastry cream by cooking milk, sugar, and eggs together until thick, then letting it cool.
Can I use a cake mix for these cupcakes?
Yes, you can use a cake mix to save time, but homemade batter will give the best flavor.
How should I store leftover cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in the fridge for up to two days, covered to keep them fresh.
What type of chocolate is best for the ganache?
Use high-quality dark chocolate for the ganache to get a rich taste.
Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
What occasions are these cupcakes good for?
They are great for birthdays, parties, or any special celebration!
How can I make these cupcakes look pretty?
You can drizzle extra ganache on top and add sprinkles or edible glitter for decoration.
Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes
Ingredients
Cupcake Batter
- 1 box yellow cake mix or homemade vanilla cake batter
- 1 cup water
- 0.5 cup melted butter melted but not hot
- 3 large eggs fresh for best results
Vanilla Pastry Cream
- 2 cups whole milk for richness
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch for thickening
- 1 pinch salt to balance sweetness
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract high-quality recommended
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Chocolate Ganache
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate high-quality, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
Prepare the Cupcakes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with liners.
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Fill each cupcake liner two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cupcakes cool completely.
Make the Vanilla Pastry Cream
- In a saucepan, combine 1.5 cups of milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining 0.5 cup of milk, eggs, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Slowly pour a little of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Then pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter.
- Strain the pastry cream through a fine-mesh sieve, then cover with plastic wrap pressed onto the surface. Chill for at least 2 hours.
Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat the heavy cream until it almost boils. Pour over the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and let sit for 1 minute.
- Whisk the cream and chocolate together until smooth and glossy. Let cool slightly until pourable but not runny.
Assemble the Cupcakes
- Using a piping bag with a large round tip, insert the tip into the center of each cooled cupcake and fill with pastry cream.
- Dip the tops of the filled cupcakes into the ganache or spoon ganache over each cupcake. Let set on a wire rack.
Notes
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