Boston Cream Bliss Cupcakes

Introduction

Boston Cream Bliss Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic Boston Cream Pie. These cupcakes are filled with a rich and creamy custard, topped with a luscious chocolate ganache, and finished with a dollop of whipped cream. They are the perfect combination of flavors and textures, making them a truly indulgent treat. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, these cupcakes will not disappoint.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk

For the Custard Filling:

1 ½ cups whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
4 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

½ cup heavy cream
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Spoon the cupcake batter into the prepared liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Filling

In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch. Add the egg yolks to the sugar mixture and whisk until well combined.

Slowly pour about half of the heated milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth. Transfer the custard to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate until chilled and firm, about 1-2 hours.

Step 3: Assemble the Cupcakes

Using a small teaspoon or cupcake corer, remove a small portion from the center of each cupcake. Fill the cavity with the chilled custard filling, being careful not to overfill.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to steam. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Coat the Cupcakes with the Ganache

Dip the top of each cupcake into the chocolate ganache, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the cupcakes on a wire rack to set the ganache completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping

In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Step 7: Add the Whipped Cream Topping

Transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe a dollop of whipped cream onto the center of each cupcake, covering the ganache.

Variations

While Boston Cream Bliss Cupcakes are delicious as is, you can also experiment with variations to suit your taste:

Add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the cupcake batter for a subtle mocha flavor.
Drizzle some caramel sauce over the whipped cream topping for an extra touch of sweetness.
Sprinkle crushed toffee or chopped nuts on top of the whipped cream for added texture.

Tips

Make sure all the cupcake ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture and even baking.
When filling the cupcake liners, use an ice cream scoop or a large spoon to ensure consistent portions.
Refrigerate the custard filling until firm before filling the cupcakes to avoid a runny center.
For a smoother ganache, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve after melting the chocolate chips.
Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off to fill the cupcakes with the custard.

Conclusion

Boston Cream Bliss Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of Boston Cream Pie with the convenience and portability of cupcakes. The fluffy cake, creamy custard filling, decadent chocolate ganache, and light whipped cream topping create a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want to indulge in a delicious homemade dessert, these cupcakes are sure to impress.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the cupcakes in advance?

A: Yes, you can make the cupcakes a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Fill and top them with custard, ganache, and whipped cream just before serving for the best texture and freshness.

Q: How long can I store the cupcakes?

A: The cupcakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the whipped cream topping may deflate slightly over time.

Q: Can I use a different type of cake mix?

A: While this recipe uses a homemade cake batter, you can experiment with using a boxed cake mix if desired. Follow the instructions on the cake mix box and proceed with filling and topping the cupcakes as directed in this recipe.

Q: Can I freeze the cupcakes?

A: Yes, you can freeze the unfilled cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before filling and topping them with custard, ganache, and whipped cream.

Q: Can I use a different type of filling?

A: If you’re not a fan of custard, you can substitute it with other fillings such as raspberry jam, lemon curd, or even peanut butter. Just make sure the filling has a thick consistency to prevent it from running out of the cupcakes.