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Boston Cream Cupcakes

Boston Cream Cupcakes are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert featuring moist cupcakes filled with rich pastry cream and topped with glossy chocolate ganache.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baking, Boston Cream Cupcakes, Chocolate Ganache, Cupcake Recipe, Pastry Cream
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Creamy and rich, providing a heavenly base for the batter.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream Adds an extra dimension of moisture and tanginess.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the cupcakes to perfection, balancing the richness.
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract Infuses the batter with aromatic flavors.
  • 3 large egg whites Contributes to the fluffy texture.
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda Helps the cupcakes rise.
  • 1/2 cup whole milk Enhances creaminess and moisture.
  • 1 tsp baking powder Works in tandem with baking soda for that light, airy lift.
  • 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour The foundation of your batter, providing structure.

For the Pastry Cream

  • 3 tbsp granulated sugar Sweetness to complement the vanilla.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Indulgently rich, creating a luxurious texture.
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch Thickens the pastry cream to the perfect consistency.
  • 2 large egg yolks Provides richness and flavor.
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract Enhances the aromatic undertones.

For the Chocolate Ganache

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream Ensures a smooth, luxurious finish.
  • 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped Dark, rich chocolate for that irresistible topping.

Instructions

Make the Cupcakes

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a muffin pan by lining it with cupcake liners.
  • In a large bowl, mix the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and baking powder until well combined.
  • To the dry mixture, add the softened butter, egg whites, sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract.
  • Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it’s completely smooth and well combined.
  • Scoop the batter into the cupcake liners until they’re about two-thirds full.
  • Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare Pastry Cream

  • In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and cornstarch until well blended.
  • Gradually pour the hot cream into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
  • Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
  • Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating until set.

Make Ganache

  • In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it simmers.
  • Pour the hot cream over the chopped semi-sweet chocolate.
  • Allow the mixture to sit for 1 minute before stirring until smooth and glossy.

Fill Cupcakes

  • Once the cupcakes are completely cool, cut a small hole in the center of each to create a cavity.
  • Spoon a little ganache into each cupcake cavity, allowing it to set in the freezer for about 10 minutes.
  • After the ganache sets, fill the cavity with the chilled pastry cream.

Finish with Ganache

  • Carefully dip the tops of each filled cupcake into the remaining ganache.
  • Allow the ganache to set before serving.

Notes

Tips: Chill your ingredients for fluffier cupcakes, don’t overmix the batter, and adjust the chocolate to cream ratio in the ganache according to your preference.