Boston cream pie is a classic dessert, but who has time for a full-sized pie? These Boston cream cupcakes, made with cake mix for ultimate convenience, deliver all the decadent flavor in a bite-sized package. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and experienced dessert enthusiasts alike, offering a delightful twist on a beloved treat.
What Makes These Boston Cream Cupcakes Special?
These aren't your average cupcakes. We're elevating the classic Boston cream pie experience with a few key elements: the moistness of a perfectly baked cake, the creamy richness of a homemade pastry cream, and the delightful touch of chocolate ganache. Using cake mix simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor, allowing you to achieve professional-looking results with minimal effort.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Cupcakes:
- One box of your favorite yellow or white cake mix (I recommend a brand known for moistness)
- Ingredients specified on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Pastry Cream:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Baking the Cupcakes:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Prepare the cake batter according to the package instructions, adding the teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full.
- Bake for the time recommended on the box, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely in the muffin tin before frosting.
2. Making the Pastry Cream:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth.
- Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Pour the tempered egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
- Pour the pastry cream into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface (to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate until completely chilled.
3. Preparing the Chocolate Ganache:
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
- Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Whisk until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly before using.
4. Assembling the Cupcakes:
- Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a serrated knife or a piping bag to cut a small hole in the top of each cupcake.
- Fill the hole with a generous spoonful of the chilled pastry cream.
- Top with a dollop of the chocolate ganache. You can drizzle it on or use a piping bag for a more elegant look.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes! While yellow or white cake mixes work best for the classic Boston cream flavor, you can experiment with other flavors like chocolate or even spice cake for a unique twist.
How can I make the pastry cream smoother?
If your pastry cream is slightly lumpy, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling. This will ensure a perfectly smooth and creamy texture.
How long can I store these cupcakes?
Store the assembled cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make the components ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cupcakes can be baked a day or two in advance. The pastry cream and ganache can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.
With their delightful combination of moist cake, creamy pastry cream, and rich chocolate ganache, these Boston Cream Cupcakes with cake mix are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
