Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes combine the classic flavors of the beloved dessert—creamy vanilla custard, soft sponge cake, and rich chocolate ganache—into a convenient handheld treat. These cupcakes are perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave a decadent, bakery-style dessert with layers of texture and flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourgranulated sugarsaltbaking powdersoftened unsalted buttereggswhole milkvanilla extractheavy creamcornstarchsemisweet chocolate chips

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Let cupcakes cool completely before filling.

For the filling, whisk together milk, cornstarch, sugar, and egg yolks in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Cool slightly.

Use a knife or cupcake corer to remove the centers of the cupcakes and fill with custard.

For the ganache, heat the cream until just simmering, pour over chocolate chips, let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.

Spoon ganache over the filled cupcakes and let set before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 cupcakes.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 18-20 minutes
Filling and assembly time: 25 minutes
Total time: 70 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of rum or coffee liqueur to the custard for an adult twist.

Use vanilla bean paste in place of extract for a more intense flavor.

Top with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.

Make mini versions using a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats.

storage/reheating

Store cupcakes in the refrigerator for up to 4 days due to the custard filling.
Let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Do not freeze, as the custard may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

What makes these cupcakes like Boston Cream Pie?

They feature the same components: sponge cake, creamy custard, and a chocolate ganache topping.

Can I make them ahead?

Yes, you can bake and fill them a day in advance and add the ganache just before serving.

Is the custard hard to make?

No, as long as you whisk constantly and don’t overheat, it’s quite simple.

Can I use instant pudding for the filling?

Yes, for a quicker version, substitute the homemade custard with vanilla pudding.

Why are my cupcakes dense?

Be sure not to overmix the batter and measure flour correctly to maintain a light texture.

Can I use a boxed cake mix?

Yes, a yellow or vanilla cake mix works well if you’re short on time.

Do they need to be refrigerated?

Yes, due to the dairy-based custard filling.

How long will the ganache take to set?

About 10-15 minutes at room temperature.

Can I pipe in the filling?

Yes, use a piping bag fitted with a round tip for a neat finish.

Can I skip the filling?

You can, but then they won’t have the signature Boston Cream experience.

Conclusion

Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, offering rich custard and luscious ganache in every bite. Perfect for entertaining or a luxurious treat at home, these cupcakes deliver all the charm and indulgence of the original pie in a more playful, portable form.