If there’s one recipe that never fails to dazzle at birthdays, bake sales, or just a cozy family weekend, it’s Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes. These charming little treats take all the best parts of the classic Boston cream pie — soft yellow cake, silky vanilla pudding, and glossy chocolate ganache — and transform them into something perfectly portable and utterly irresistible. Every bite is a mini celebration of flavor, and, quite frankly, there’s just something special about holding a whole Boston cream experience in your hand!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how a handful of simple, readily available ingredients can combine to create cupcakes this delectable. Each one works its unique magic, giving Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes their distinct layers and show-stopping finish.
- Yellow cake mix: The ideal shortcut for a fluffy base, letting you focus on the fun filling and topping without compromising on flavor.
- Eggs, oil, and water (as listed on the cake mix box): These are essential for binding the cake and ensuring a tender crumb.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: Delivers quick, foolproof pastry cream flavor and cuts down the prep time dramatically.
- Cold milk: Unlocks that dreamy, creamy texture for the filling and keeps everything light and luscious.
- Heavy cream: Forms the rich, velvety base of the chocolate ganache.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: Bring deep, decadent flavor and the classic Boston cream taste to the ganache.
- Corn syrup: Adds shine and a glossy finish so every cupcake looks bakery-worthy.
- Unsalted butter: Gives the ganache a smooth, luxurious melt-in-your-mouth finish.
How to Make Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes
Step 1: Bake the Cupcakes
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), then line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Follow the instructions on your yellow cake mix box, mixing up the batter and dividing it evenly among the liners. Aim to fill each cup about two-thirds full to leave room for rising. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until the tops spring back lightly to the touch or a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let your golden beauties cool completely on a wire rack — patience here is key for perfect filling later!
Step 2: Whip Up the Filling
While your cupcakes cool, grab a medium bowl and whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with the cold milk. In about two minutes, you’ll have a thick, glossy pudding that’s ready to transform these cupcakes into filled patisserie dreams. Pop it in the refrigerator so it firms up even more before you start assembling Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache
Next, it’s time for that signature glossy finish! Gently heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it’s just starting to simmer. Pour it over the chocolate chips waiting in a heatproof bowl. Let everything sit for about two minutes to help the chocolate melt fully, then add in the corn syrup and butter. Stir until it’s gloriously smooth and shiny — this is the true crowning glory of Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes.
Step 4: Fill the Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are cool, use a sharp paring knife or the handle of a wooden spoon to create a small well in the center of each one. Spoon or pipe the chilled pudding into each hole, giving each bite a creamy surprise inside. Feel free to eat any extra filling with a spoon (we won’t tell)!
Step 5: Glaze with Ganache
Spoon the silky chocolate ganache over the top of each filled cupcake, letting it drizzle naturally down the sides. For maximum drama and that bakery-finish look, don’t be shy with the ganache. Place the finished cupcakes in the fridge for about 10 to 15 minutes to help the chocolate set perfectly.
How to Serve Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes
Garnishes
Want to take Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes across the finish line? A delicate dusting of powdered sugar, a few chocolate curls, or even a maraschino cherry perched on top make each cupcake feel ultra-special. These are little details that never fail to earn “oohs” and “aahs” at the table.
Side Dishes
For a celebratory spread, offer these cupcakes alongside a bowl of fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or a platter of fruit skewers. The flavors balance beautifully, and these simple sides let Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes truly shine while inviting everyone to build their own dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to wow with presentation, arrange the cupcakes on a vintage cake stand or tiered server and scatter a few edible flowers around for a festive touch. Lined up in cheerful wrappers or tucked into individual cupcake boxes, Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes make incredible edible gifts for friends and neighbors — just add a charming handwritten note.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because of their creamy filling, it’s best to store your leftover Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes in the refrigerator. Place them in a covered container so they stay tender and the ganache keeps its velvety sheen. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three days (though chances are they’ll be gone long before then!).
Freezing
If you want to freeze the cupcakes, do so before filling and topping for the best texture. Bake the cupcakes, let them cool, and freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, then proceed with the pudding and ganache. It’s like having instant bakery treats ready whenever the craving strikes!
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes, since they’re meant to be served chilled or at room temperature. If you want to soften cold cupcakes, simply let them sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before eating — this will bring back that just-made texture and amplify all the dreamy flavors.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake batter and pudding instead of the boxed kind?
Absolutely! If you have a go-to yellow cake recipe or a favorite homemade pastry cream, feel free to use them. The boxed versions keep things quick and approachable, but Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes are all about making the experience your own.
What’s the best way to fill the cupcakes without making a mess?
A piping bag gives you great control and makes it easy to fill each cupcake neatly, but a small spoon works just fine. If you want picture-perfect results, snip off the end of a piping bag or even use a zip-top bag with the corner cut off.
Why use corn syrup in the ganache?
The corn syrup adds a gorgeous gloss and just a touch of extra smoothness to the ganache. If you don’t have any on hand, you can skip it; your ganache will still taste amazing, though it may not be quite as shiny.
Can I make Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute your favorite plant-based milk for the cows’ milk in the pudding, use a dairy-free butter alternative and coconut cream for the ganache, and opt for a dairy-free cake mix. There are lots of vegan-friendly pudding and chocolate chip options at most grocery stores.
Do I have to chill the cupcakes before serving?
A short chill helps the ganache set and keeps the filling delightfully cool, but you can enjoy these cupcakes at room temperature too. After chilling, let them sit out for a few minutes so the flavors soften and bloom even more.
Final Thoughts
Making a batch of Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes feels like sharing a little edible happiness with everyone you love. They’re a celebration in every bite, simple enough for everyday but elegant enough to impress at any occasion. If you haven’t tried them yet, now’s the time — so grab your apron, and let the baking magic begin!
Print
Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling and chilling)
- Yield: 24 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delightful Daddy’s Boston Cream Cupcakes, featuring moist yellow cake filled with creamy vanilla pudding and topped with a rich chocolate ganache. These decadent treats are perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Cupcakes:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
Vanilla Pudding Filling:
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Prepare Cupcakes: Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package directions, fill cupcake liners 2/3 full, and bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool.
- Make Pudding: Whisk pudding mix and milk until thickened, then refrigerate.
- Create Ganache: Heat cream until simmering, pour over chocolate chips, add corn syrup and butter. Stir until smooth.
- Fill Cupcakes: Cut a hole in each cupcake, fill with pudding.
- Top with Ganache: Spoon ganache over cupcakes, letting it drip down the sides. Chill before serving.
Notes
- You can use homemade batter and pastry cream as alternatives.
- For a neater finish, use a piping bag for filling and topping.
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