Ah, the joy of Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes! It’s like hitting the dessert jackpot! These delightful little wonders are a whimsical twist on the classic Boston cream pie that we all know and love. I first tried this delectable treat at a friend’s birthday party, and wow, it was love at first bite! The soft cupcake, rich pastry cream, and glossy chocolate ganache come together to create a celebration of flavors that makes any day feel special.
The beauty of these cupcakes is that you can whip them up for a casual get-together, or dress them up for a special occasion. Trust me, once you make these, your friends and family will be begging for the recipe—and who could blame them? The combination of the moist vanilla cupcake with the creamy filling and luscious chocolate topping is nothing short of irresistible!
What’s in Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes?
Cupcake Batter: The base of our cupcakes starts with a fluffy vanilla batter. I like to use cake flour for that light, airy texture that truly makes the cupcake melt in your mouth.
Pâtissière Cream: This creamy filling is often overlooked but is essential to the Boston cream experience! A homemade pastry cream is easy to make, and it’s the soul of these cupcakes.
Chocolate Ganache: A simple mixture of chocolate and cream that creates a rich, decadent topping. I recommend using semi-sweet chocolate; it balances the sweetness of the cupcake and pastry cream perfectly.
Butter: Nothing beats the flavor and richness that real butter provides in the batter and pastry cream. Go for unsalted so you can control the sweet and salty balance.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the batter and adds that delightful moistness to the cupcakes.
Is Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes Good for You?
Now, I won’t pretend these cupcakes are health food, but every once in a while, it’s important to indulge!
Cupcake Batter: The vanilla cupcake itself can be made a tad healthier by using Greek yogurt or applesauce for some of the fat, if you’re feeling adventurous!
Pâtissière Cream: While delicious, it’s calorie-rich, which is why moderation is key. Making it at home allows you to control the ingredients, using less sugar if you prefer.
Chocolate Ganache: Remember, a little goes a long way! You don’t need to drown your cupcake—just a drizzle will do. Dark chocolate also has antioxidants, so there’s that!
Ingredients List
– 1 ½ cups cake flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup whole milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 ½ tsp baking powder
– ¼ tsp salt
– For the Pastry Cream:
– 2 cups whole milk
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 4 large egg yolks
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– For the Chocolate Ganache:
– 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
– ½ cup heavy cream
This recipe yields about 12 cupcakes.
How to Make Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes?
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. **Prepare the Batter:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
3. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. **Combine:** Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture while alternating with the milk. Mix until just blended.
5. **Bake the Cupcakes:** Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack.
6. **Make the Pastry Cream:** In a saucepan, heat the milk with sugar over medium heat. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch. When the milk mixture is just about to boil, slowly pour it into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. Return to the pot and cook until thick.
7. **Cool the Cream:** Stir in the butter and vanilla and pour into a dish to cool completely. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
8. **Prepare the Ganache:** Heat the heavy cream until it’s just about to simmer, then pour it over the chopped chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.
9. **Assemble:** Once the cupcakes are completely cool, cut a small hole in the center of each to fill with pastry cream. Insert a piping bag or spoon the cream in.
10. **Top with Ganache:** Drizzle the chocolate ganache over each cupcake, letting it cascade down the sides.
Sweet Tips for Sweet Treats
– Experiment with flavors! You could add a hint of orange or almond extract to the batter or cream for a unique twist.
– Don’t forget to share! These cupcakes are perfect for gatherings, and your friends will love you for making them.
– If you have leftover ganache, it makes a delicious dip for fruits or pretzels!
I can hardly contain my excitement as I encourage you to whip up a batch of these Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes! They truly are a buttery, creamy slice of heaven that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Let me know how it goes; I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and maybe even your own twist on this scrumptious recipe! Happy baking!
