Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes Recipe

Posted by My Name is Alice on



Boston Cream Pie is an iconic dessert loved for its light, fluffy cake layers, creamy filling, and a decadent chocolate topping. These Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes transform the traditional dessert into a portable, single-serving treat perfect for parties, gatherings, or an indulgent afternoon snack. Each bite combines soft vanilla cupcakes, a luscious vanilla pudding center, and a glossy chocolate ganache topping for an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.

Let’s dive into this simple yet elegant recipe that will impress family, friends, and guests!

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the cupcake, providing structure.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds moisture and richness to the cupcakes.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes perfectly.
  • 2 large eggs: Provide structure, moisture, and stability.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a delicious, warm, and aromatic flavor to the cupcakes.
  • 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the cupcakes tender and moist.

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups vanilla pudding: A creamy, smooth filling that mimics the pastry cream in a traditional Boston Cream Pie. Store-bought or homemade works perfectly.

For the Ganache:

  • 1 cup heavy cream: The base for a silky-smooth ganache.
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into a rich, glossy topping that pairs perfectly with the cupcake.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside for later.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step aerates the batter, creating light cupcakes.

  • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • Mix in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.

5. Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

  • Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before filling and topping.

6. Fill the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are cool:

  • Use a small knife, apple corer, or spoon to cut a small circle out of the center of each cupcake.
  • Fill the hole with vanilla pudding until it’s flush with the top of the cupcake.

Pro Tip: Save the cut-out pieces of cake for snacking or decoration!

7. Prepare the Ganache

  • In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (do not boil).
  • Remove the cream from the heat and pour it over the chocolate chips in a heat-safe bowl.
  • Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir gently until smooth and glossy.

Pro Tip: Stir the ganache slowly to avoid incorporating air bubbles.

8. Top the Cupcakes with Ganache

Spoon the warm chocolate ganache over the top of each cupcake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a beautiful, bakery-style finish. Let the ganache set at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes combine the best parts of the original dessert into an easy-to-eat, portable form. They are:

  • Moist and tender: The cupcakes are soft with just the right amount of sweetness.
  • Perfectly creamy: The vanilla pudding center adds a delightful surprise with every bite.
  • Rich and indulgent: The chocolate ganache topping takes these cupcakes to the next level.

Plus, they’re easy to make and look incredibly impressive—ideal for parties, bake sales, or any dessert table!

Pro Tips for Perfect Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes

  1. Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free batter.
  2. Don’t Overmix: Mix until the dry and wet ingredients are just combined to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.
  3. Ganache Consistency: If the ganache is too thick, add a tablespoon of warm cream at a time to thin it out. If too thin, let it cool slightly before using.
  4. Chill Before Serving: For a firmer pudding center and set ganache, refrigerate the cupcakes for 30 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These cupcakes pair beautifully with:

  • A hot cup of coffee or espresso for a cafe-style experience.
  • A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
  • Fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, to add a touch of tartness and color.

Conclusion

These Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes offer all the charm and flavor of the classic dessert in a fun, bite-sized form. With moist cupcakes, a creamy pudding filling, and a silky chocolate ganache topping, they’re sure to become a favorite treat for any occasion.

Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply satisfying a sweet craving, this recipe delivers simplicity, elegance, and unbeatable flavor. Try these cupcakes today, and you’ll see why they’re a must-have addition to your baking repertoire!

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