Experience the delightful flavor of pistachios in a whole new light with this delicious pistachio cupcake recipe. This recipe combines the rich, nutty taste of pistachios with a moist and soft cupcake base that's frosted with creamy pistachio-flavored frosting. It's a unique dessert that's sure to impress your friends and family, and it's perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat at the end of the day.
The star ingredient in this recipe is the pistachios, which are used both in the cupcake batter and as a topping. If you don't typically keep pistachios in your pantry, you'll definitely need to pick some up from the supermarket. Additionally, you might not have natural pistachio flavor or green food coloring on hand, which are essential for adding that distinctive pistachio taste and color to the cupcakes.
Ingredients for Delicious Pistachio Cupcakes
All-purpose flour: This is the base for our cupcake batter, providing structure and texture.
Cornstarch: Added to the flour to make the cupcakes softer and more tender.
Baking powder: Allows the cupcakes to rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Enhances the other flavors in the cupcakes.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cupcakes.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes.
Large eggs: Provides structure and moisture.
Milk: Adds moisture and lightens the batter.
Natural pistachio flavor: Gives the cupcakes a strong pistachio taste.
Green food coloring: Gives the cupcakes a fun, bright green color.
Pistachios: Adds a nutty crunch to the cupcakes.
Butter: Makes the frosting creamy and spreadable.
Heavy cream: Gives the frosting a rich, velvety texture.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
One reader, Cordie Crow says:
This pistachio cupcake recipe is a game-changer! The cupcakes turned out moist and flavorful, and the pistachio buttercream frosting was the perfect finishing touch. The natural pistachio flavor really shines through, and the added crunch of the pistachios on top is a delightful surprise. A definite must-try!
Techniques Required for Making Delicious Pistachio Cupcakes
How to prepare the cupcake batter: Combine the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then gradually mix them together. Fold in the pistachios at the end to evenly distribute them in the batter.
How to make the pistachio buttercream frosting: Whip the butter until pale and fluffy, then mix in the heavy cream, pistachio flavor, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
How to bake the cupcakes: Divide the batter into lined muffin cups and bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
How to decorate the cupcakes: Pipe the pistachio buttercream frosting over the cooled cupcakes and sprinkle chopped pistachios on top for a finishing touch.
How To Make Pistachio Cupcakes
The moistness of the cupcake meets the nutty and smooth texture of the pistachios in this delicious and savory pistachio cupcake recipe. Serve it warm!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1 ½cupsall-purpose flour
- 2tspcornstarch
- 1 ½tspbaking powder
- ¼tsptsp salt
- ½unsalted buttersoftened
- ¾cupgranulated sugar
- 2largeeggs
- ⅔cupmilk
- 1tbspnatural pistachio flavor
- green food coloring
- ½cuppistachiosunsalted , finely chopped
Frosting:
- ¾cupbutter
- 1 ½tbspheavy cream
- 1tbspnatural pistachio flavor
- 2 ¾cupspowdered sugar
- ¼cuppistachiosunsalted , finely chopped, for topping
Instructions
For Cupcakes:
-
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder and salt for 20 seconds, set aside.
-
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer whip together butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Mix in eggs one at a time then blend in pistachio flavor and green food coloring.
-
Gradually add the flour mixture and blend on low speed until combined then gradually blend the milk and mix just until nearly combined.
-
Remove bowl from the stand mixer, add pistachios, and fold mixture while scraping the bowl to evenly incorporate pistachios and blend batter
-
Divide batter among 12 paper-lined muffin cups filling each ⅔ full.
-
Bake in preheated oven for about 18 to 22 minutes. Remove from pan and cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes, and then transfer to an airtight container to cool completely.
For Pistachio Buttercream Frosting:
-
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer whip butter until very pale and fluffy. Mix in heavy cream, pistachio flavor, and powdered sugar.
-
Pipe over cupcakes and sprinkle pistachios over top. Store in an airtight container.
Nutrition
- Calories: 5046.44kcal
- Fat: 325.07g
- Saturated Fat: 147.17g
- Trans Fat: 7.98g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 114.04g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 42.75g
- Carbohydrates: 496.95g
- Fiber: 28.86g
- Sugar: 349.17g
- Protein: 74.15g
- Cholesterol: 599.02mg
- Sodium: 2809.06mg
- Calcium: 970.29mg
- Potassium: 3078.72mg
- Iron: 16.48mg
- Vitamin A: 1903.24µg
- Vitamin C: 13.94mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Pistachio Cupcakes
To ensure your cupcakes have a rich pistachio flavor, consider using freshly shelled pistachios. The pre-shelled variety often lacks the vibrant taste of fresh ones. Additionally, when incorporating the pistachio flavor into the batter, make sure to mix it well to distribute the flavor evenly. For the frosting, whip the butter until it's very pale and fluffy. This will give your frosting a light and airy texture, which complements the dense cupcake perfectly.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pistachio Cupcakes
Prep ahead: Prepare the dry ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container. You can also measure out the wet ingredients and keep them in the refrigerator, so all you have to do is mix and bake when you're ready.
One-bowl wonders: Look for recipes that allow you to mix all the ingredients in one bowl to minimize cleanup time. This will save you time and effort in the kitchen.
Efficient organization: Set up your workspace efficiently by gathering all the necessary ingredients and tools before you start. This will help you work more smoothly and save time during the cooking process.
Quick clean-up: Clean as you go to avoid a big mess at the end. This will make the cooking process more enjoyable and save time on post-cooking cleanup.
Substitute Ingredients For Pistachio Cupcake Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: This substitute is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies. It provides a similar texture and structure to the cupcakes.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative and adds a subtle coconut flavor to the cupcakes.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener that adds a hint of caramel flavor to the cupcakes and is a suitable substitute for granulated sugar.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that adds a nutty flavor to the cupcakes and works well in baking recipes.
natural pistachio flavor - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a similar nutty flavor and aroma to the cupcakes, making it a suitable substitute for pistachio flavor.
pistachios - Substitute with almonds: Almonds can be used as a substitute for pistachios, providing a similar nutty flavor and texture to the cupcakes.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda: Baking soda can be used as a substitute for baking powder, but it requires an acidic ingredient such as lemon juice or vinegar to activate it. Use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda for every 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent in place of cornstarch and provides a similar texture in baked goods.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, providing a slightly different flavor profile to the cupcakes.
green food coloring - Substitute with matcha powder: Matcha powder can be used to add a natural green color to the cupcakes, and it also provides a subtle earthy flavor.
How to Beautifully Present Pistachio Cupcakes
- Elevate the cupcake: Place the pistachio cupcake on a pristine white plate, ensuring it is the focal point of the presentation.
- Garnish with crushed pistachios: Sprinkle a delicate amount of finely crushed pistachios around the cupcake to add a touch of elegance and texture.
- Incorporate a pistachio tuile: Nestle a delicate pistachio tuile alongside the cupcake for a sophisticated and edible decoration.
- Utilize a pistachio macaron: Place a small pistachio macaron on the plate to complement the cupcake and add a pop of color.
- Drizzle with pistachio syrup: Carefully drizzle a small amount of pistachio syrup around the plate to add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Add a touch of gold leaf: For a luxurious touch, delicately place a small piece of edible gold leaf on the cupcake or plate to add a shimmering effect.
- Present on a mirrored surface: Display the pistachio cupcake on a mirrored surface to create a stunning reflection and enhance the visual impact.
- Accompany with a pistachio parfait: Serve the pistachio cupcake with a small quenelle of pistachio parfait to provide a contrasting texture and flavor.
Essential Tools for Making Pistachio Cupcakes
- Mixing bowl: A large, round bowl used for mixing ingredients together, such as batter or dough.
- Electric stand mixer: A kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients, often used in baking to cream butter and sugar or to make frosting.
- Muffin pan: A metal pan with multiple round depressions used to bake muffins or cupcakes.
- Wire rack: A metal rack with a grid pattern, used for cooling baked goods and allowing air to circulate around them.
- Piping bag: A cone-shaped bag used to pipe frosting or icing onto baked goods, often fitted with various tips for different designs.
- Food processor: A kitchen appliance used to chop, blend, and puree food quickly and efficiently.
Storing and Freezing Pistachio Cupcakes: A Guide
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cupcakes soggy.
- To store the cupcakes at room temperature, place them in an airtight container. They will keep for up to 3 days.
- If you want to store the cupcakes for a longer period, you can freeze them:
- Place the cooled cupcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze them until solid (about 2 hours).
- Once frozen, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- Label the container with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To thaw the frozen cupcakes, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour.
- If you want to store frosted cupcakes, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 5 days.
- Allow the frosting to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- If you have leftover buttercream frosting, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To use refrigerated frosting, let it come to room temperature and then re-whip it until it's smooth and fluffy.
- To use frozen frosting, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then let it come to room temperature and re-whip it until smooth.
How To Reheat Leftover Pistachio Cupcakes
The best way to reheat leftover pistachio cupcakes is to place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This method will help restore the cupcakes' texture and flavor, making them taste almost as fresh as when they were first baked. Be sure to remove any frosting before reheating, as it may melt and become messy.
Another option is to use a microwave, although this method may result in a slightly soggy texture. Place the cupcake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 10-15 seconds. Check the cupcake's temperature and repeat the process in 5-second intervals until it reaches your desired warmth. Be careful not to overheat the cupcake, as it may become rubbery or dry.
If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat your pistachio cupcakes. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cupcakes in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the cupcakes are warmed through. This method will help maintain the cupcakes' crispy edges while keeping the interior soft and moist.
For a quicker and more convenient option, you can reheat the cupcakes in a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cupcakes directly on the rack. Heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the cupcakes are warmed to your liking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning or drying out.
If you want to maintain the cupcakes' moisture content, you can wrap them in aluminum foil before reheating. This method works well for both oven and toaster oven reheating. Simply wrap each cupcake individually in foil and place them in the preheated oven or toaster oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through.
Interesting Fact About Pistachio Cupcakes
Pistachios are not only delicious but also a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. They can help lower cholesterol and promote heart health.
Is Making Pistachio Cupcakes at Home Cost-Effective?
This pistachio cupcake recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main cost lies in the pistachios and natural pistachio flavor, which can be pricier ingredients. However, the yield of 12 cupcakes makes it reasonable for a family of four. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15. Overall Verdict: 8/10
Are Pistachio Cupcakes Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pistachio cupcake recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks the nutrients found in whole grain flours
- It contains a significant amount of sugar, both in the cupcake batter and the frosting
- Butter is used in both the cupcake and frosting, adding saturated fat to the recipe
- The recipe calls for heavy cream, which is high in calories and fat
- Food coloring is used, which does not add any nutritional value
However, there are some positive aspects:
- Pistachios are used, which are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber
- Milk is included, providing some calcium and protein
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Reduce the sugar in the cupcake batter by 1/4 cup and in the frosting by 1/2 cup to lower the overall sugar content
- Use Greek yogurt or mashed avocado in place of half the butter to reduce saturated fat and add protein or healthy fats
- Opt for a lighter frosting option, such as a whipped cream cheese frosting or a Greek yogurt-based frosting, to cut down on calories and fat
- Skip the food coloring and rely on the natural green hue from the pistachios for a more natural appearance
- Increase the amount of pistachios in the batter and as a topping to boost the nutritional benefits of the cupcakes
- Serve the cupcakes with fresh fruit to add vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the dessert
Editor's Opinion on This Pistachio Cupcake Recipe
This pistachio cupcake recipe is a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios with a moist and fluffy cupcake base. The addition of natural pistachio flavor and green food coloring adds a lovely hue and enhances the overall pistachio experience. The buttercream frosting, with its creamy texture and pistachio flavor, complements the cupcakes perfectly. The addition of chopped pistachios on top adds a delightful crunch. Overall, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.
Enhance Your Pistachio Cupcake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Pistachio Cupcake Recipe:
I have crafted this pistachio cupcake recipe with precision and expertise, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The use of natural pistachio flavor and pistachios guarantees an authentic and delightful pistachio taste. The meticulous instructions and quality ingredients, such as unsalted butter and all-purpose flour, reflect my commitment to delivering a trustworthy and delectable recipe. With a luscious pistachio buttercream frosting to complement the moist and flavorful cupcakes, this recipe is a testament to my culinary prowess and dedication to creating exceptional desserts.
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