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Decadent Boston Cream Cake with chocolate ganache and custard filling

Boston Cream Cake

A delightful dessert featuring layers of creamy custard between fluffy vanilla cake, topped with a glossy chocolate glaze.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour providing a soft and airy base
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder for cake rise
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt balances sweetness
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened for creamy flavor
  • 1 cup granulated sugar adds sweetness
  • 3 large eggs contributes to lightness
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for vanilla flavor
  • 1/2 cup whole milk for a silky texture

For the Custard Layer

  • 2 cups whole milk base for the custard
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar adds sweetness
  • 3 large egg yolks thickening agent
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch for thickening
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter adds richness
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for flavor enhancement

For the Chocolate Glaze

  • 4 oz semisweet chocolate, finely chopped for glaze
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream for a rich glaze
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for glaze richness

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add the eggs individually, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

Baking

  • Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  • Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.

Custard Preparation

  • Heat 2 cups of whole milk in a saucepan until steaming.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth.
  • Slowly pour hot milk into egg mixture while whisking to prevent curdling.
  • Return mixture to saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
  • Let custard cool and refrigerate until chilled.

Glaze Preparation

  • In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until simmering, then remove from heat.
  • Add chopped chocolate and butter, stirring until smooth and glossy.
  • Allow to cool slightly before using.

Assembly

  • Place one cake layer on a serving platter and spread with chilled custard.
  • Add the second cake layer on top and drizzle with chocolate glaze.

Serving

  • Slice, serve, and enjoy your homemade Boston Cream Cake.

Notes

For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate in the glaze. Ensure cakes are completely cool before adding custard and glaze. Vary by using different custard flavors or glazes.
Keyword Boston Cream Cake, Chocolate Glaze, custard, Dessert Recipe, Vanilla Cake