Hello, dessert lovers! If you’re a fan of rich, creamy, and chocolaty treats, you’re in for a delightful experience. These Boston Cream Cupcakes are a twist on the classic Boston Cream Pie, transforming the dessert into a handheld indulgence. With moist vanilla cupcakes, luscious pastry cream, and glossy chocolate ganache, these cupcakes are the ultimate sweet treat. Let’s dive into the recipe and create some magic in the kitchen!
Introduction
Boston Cream Cupcakes are a fusion of elegant flavor and casual presentation. Inspired by the iconic Boston Cream Pie, this dessert dates back to the 1800s and has become a beloved classic. By miniaturizing this treat into cupcake form, we’re making it perfect for parties, potlucks, or just satisfying your sweet tooth. Imagine biting into a soft vanilla cupcake filled with smooth pastry cream and topped with a rich chocolate ganache—it’s irresistible!
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3 large egg whites
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Filling (Pastry Cream):
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 large egg yolks
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
How to Make Boston Cream Cupcakes
Step 1: Prepare the Cupcakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and baking powder. Mix well to distribute the dry ingredients evenly. Add the softened butter, egg whites, vanilla extract, sour cream, and whole milk to the bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until smooth and creamy, taking care not to overmix. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with the batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack to cool completely before proceeding.
Step 2: Make the Pastry Cream Filling
In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Meanwhile, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and cornstarch in a separate bowl until smooth and pale. Slowly pour the hot cream into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and transfer the pastry cream to a bowl. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, then refrigerate until fully chilled.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache
Place the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute to melt. Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly so it thickens but remains pourable.
Step 4: Ganache Layer
Once the cupcakes are cooled, use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove a small circle from the center of each cupcake, creating a cavity for the fillings. Pour about a teaspoon of chocolate ganache into each cupcake cavity. Place the cupcakes in the freezer for a few minutes to allow the ganache to set before adding the pastry cream.
Step 5: Assembly
Remove the cupcakes from the freezer and spoon or pipe the chilled pastry cream into the ganache-filled cavities until full. Dip the top of each cupcake into the remaining chocolate ganache, allowing the excess to drip off before placing the cupcakes upright. Repeat with all cupcakes. Let the ganache set for a few minutes before serving or refrigerating.
Helpful Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, egg whites, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Smoother Ganache: For a velvety ganache, finely chop the chocolate before adding the hot cream.
- Uniform Filling: Use a piping bag to neatly fill the cupcakes with pastry cream.
Cooking Tips
- Prevent Curdling: When making the pastry cream, keep the heat medium and stir continuously to avoid curdling.
- Glossy Ganache: To maintain a glossy ganache, avoid overheating the chocolate or cream.
- Storing Cupcakes: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for freshness.
Serving Suggestions
These Boston Cream Cupcakes make a perfect dessert for celebrations or a sweet afternoon treat. Serve them with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk for a classic pairing. For a touch of elegance, garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of gold leaf on the ganache.
Nutritional Information (Per Cupcake)
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
- Vitamin A: 6%
- Calcium: 5%
- Iron: 4%
Storage and Leftovers
Store these cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent the ganache from sticking, place parchment paper between layers if stacking. For best results, allow the cupcakes to come to room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a boxed cake mix for the cupcakes? Yes, you can use a yellow or vanilla cake mix as a time-saving alternative. Follow the box instructions and proceed with the filling and ganache.
What can I use instead of semi-sweet chocolate? You can use milk or dark chocolate, depending on your taste preference. Keep in mind that this will affect the sweetness of the ganache.
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the cupcakes and pastry cream a day in advance. Assemble and add the ganache on the day you plan to serve them.
Related Recipes
If you love these Boston Cream Cupcakes, you might enjoy:
- Classic Boston Cream Pie
- Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake
- Vanilla Bean Custard Tart
- Triple Chocolate Cupcakes
Conclusion
Boston Cream Cupcakes are a delightful combination of moist vanilla cupcakes, smooth pastry cream, and rich chocolate ganache. These treats are sure to impress your family and friends with their classic flavors and elegant presentation. Give this recipe a try and savor every delicious bite!