Decadent Boston Cream Cupcakes with Lush Chocolate Ganache
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with these Decadent Boston Cream Cupcakes! Each jumbo-sized cupcake is a heavenly combination of a moist vanilla cake, rich custard filling, and a glossy chocolate ganache that will leave your taste buds dancing. Crafted with care and love, these cupcakes are the perfect celebration treat for any special occasion. Their size is as impressive as their flavors, making them a surefire hit at parties. Your friends and family will be begging for the recipe! **Prep time includes all refrigeration times.**
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
17
Ingredients
Ingredients
Whole Milk
1 cup (divided)
Cornstarch
2 tablespoons (none)
Large Egg Yolks
3 (none)
Granulated Sugar
1/3 cup (none)
Butter
1 tablespoon (none)
Vanilla Extract
1 teaspoon (none)
Salt
1/8 teaspoon (none)
All-Purpose Flour
2 1/2 cups (none)
Baking Powder
2 1/2 teaspoons (none)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Granulated Sugar
1 1/4 cups (none)
Vanilla Bean
1 (split and seeds scraped)
Butter
10 tablespoons (softened)
Large Egg Yolks
6 (at room temperature)
Whole Milk
3/4 cup (plus additional 2 tablespoons)
Heavy Cream
2/3 cup (none)
Semisweet Chocolate
8 ounces (finely chopped)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Boston Cream Cupcakes?
They are jumbo-sized vanilla cupcakes filled with a rich custard and topped with a lush chocolate ganache.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 17 ingredients used across the cake, filling, and ganache components.
What ingredients are needed for the custard filling?
The custard requires whole milk, cornstarch, large egg yolks, granulated sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
What type of chocolate is best for the ganache?
Semisweet chocolate that has been finely chopped is best for creating a smooth, lush ganache.
Can I use vanilla extract instead of a vanilla bean?
Yes, while the recipe calls for a vanilla bean in the cake, you can substitute it with high-quality vanilla extract if needed.
Why does the recipe use so many egg yolks?
Egg yolks provide richness, color, and a silky texture to both the vanilla cake and the pastry cream filling.
How should I store these cupcakes?
Because they contain a dairy-based custard and chocolate ganache, they should be stored in the refrigerator.
Do I need to refrigerate the cupcakes before serving?
Yes, the prep time includes refrigeration which helps the custard set and the ganache firm up.
Can I make these in standard-sized cupcake tins?
While designed as jumbo cupcakes, you can use standard tins; however, you will need to adjust the baking time accordingly.
What is the role of cornstarch in the filling?
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent to ensure the custard has the right consistency to stay inside the cupcake.
Why is the milk divided in the custard recipe?
The milk is divided so that part of it can be mixed with cornstarch to create a slurry while the rest is heated.
Is whole milk necessary for this recipe?
Whole milk is recommended for the best flavor and creamy texture in both the cake and the filling.
What makes the chocolate ganache 'lush'?
The combination of heavy cream and finely chopped semisweet chocolate creates a glossy, rich, and decadent topping.
How do I prep the vanilla bean?
You should split the bean lengthwise and use the back of a knife to scrape out the flavorful seeds.
Can I use salted butter?
The recipe calls for butter and added salt separately; if using salted butter, you may want to slightly reduce the additional salt.
What kind of flour is used in the cake?
Standard all-purpose flour is used to provide the structure for these moist vanilla cupcakes.
Are these cupcakes suitable for parties?
Yes, their impressive size and classic flavor profile make them a surefire hit for birthdays and special occasions.
Why do the egg yolks need to be at room temperature?
Room temperature ingredients emulsify better into the batter, resulting in a more uniform and airy cake texture.
How do I get the custard inside the cupcake?
Once cooled, you can core the center of the cupcake and pipe or spoon the prepared custard inside.
Can I freeze Boston Cream Cupcakes?
Freezing is not recommended as the custard filling may separate or become watery upon thawing.
How long will these cupcakes stay fresh?
When kept in an airtight container in the fridge, they are best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days.
What is the best way to chop the chocolate?
Chopping the chocolate finely ensures it melts quickly and evenly when the hot cream is poured over it.
Is the custard very sweet?
The custard is moderately sweetened with 1/3 cup of granulated sugar to balance the cake and ganache.
Can I substitute heavy cream in the ganache?
Heavy cream is essential for the proper thickness and richness of a traditional ganache.
Does the recipe include baking powder?
Yes, 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder are used to help the cupcakes rise and become fluffy.
Why is salt added to the cake batter?
A small amount of salt enhances the vanilla flavor and balances the overall sweetness of the dessert.
Should the cupcakes be completely cool before filling?
Yes, the cupcakes must be cool to prevent the custard from melting or making the cake soggy.
Is the ganache poured or spread?
The ganache can be dipped or spooned over the top to create a smooth, glossy finish.
What if my custard is too thin?
Ensure you have cooked it long enough for the cornstarch to activate, and let it chill completely to firm up.
What is the primary flavor of the cake portion?
The cake is a classic vanilla flavor, enhanced by both vanilla bean seeds and vanilla extract.