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### **Step 2: Make the Custard Filling**
1. **Heat the Milk**: In a medium saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat until it begins to steam, but not boil.
2. **Whisk the Sugar and Egg Yolks**: In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
3. **Temper the Eggs**: Gradually add about 1/2 cup of the hot milk to the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. Then, slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk, continuing to whisk.
4. **Cook the Custard**: Cook the custard mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
5. **Finish the Custard**: Once thickened, remove the custard from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth. Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (making sure the wrap touches the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate until cooled.
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### **Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache**
1. **Heat the Cream**: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to steam.
2. **Melt the Chocolate**: Place the semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1-2 minutes to soften. Then, stir the mixture until smooth and glossy.
3. **Add Butter**: Stir in the butter for added gloss and richness. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using.
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### **Step 4: Assemble the Cupcakes**
1. **Core the Cupcakes**: Once the cupcakes have cooled, use a cupcake corer or a small knife to remove a portion of the center of each cupcake. Be careful not to cut all the way through the cupcake.
2. **Fill the Cupcakes**: Spoon or pipe the chilled custard filling into the center of each cupcake.
3. **Top with Ganache**: Spoon the chocolate ganache over the top of each filled cupcake, spreading it evenly to cover the custard.
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### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
Allow the ganache to set before serving. These cupcakes can be served immediately or refrigerated until ready to serve. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or whipped cream.
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## Tips and Tricks for Perfect Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes
– **Make Ahead**: You can make the cupcakes, custard filling, and ganache ahead of time. Store the cupcakes at room temperature, the custard in the refrigerator, and the ganache in a cool place. Assemble the cupcakes just before serving.
– **Add a Twist**: For added flavor, you can experiment with flavored custards. Try adding a bit of lemon zest, almond extract, or cinnamon to the custard for a unique flavor profile.
– **Decorate**: For an extra touch of elegance, top your cupcakes with fresh berries, a sprinkle of toasted coconut, or edible flowers.
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## Conclusion
**Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes** bring together the best of both worlds: the nostalgic flavors of the classic Boston Cream Pie with the convenience and portability of a cupcake. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something indulgent, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit. With their soft, fluffy cupcakes, creamy custard filling, and smooth chocolate ganache, they provide a perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite. Simple to make yet impressive in taste and presentation, these cupcakes are destined to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy!
