Chocolate Pistachio Cupcakes

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup crushed pistachios; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Crushed pistachios for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Baking Favorites

I absolutely adore making chocolate pistachio cupcakes! There's something magical about the combination of rich chocolate and crunchy pistachios. I love how simple it is to turn basic ingredients into a delightful treat that's not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor. These cupcakes are incredibly moist and make for an impressive dessert to share at gatherings or just enjoy at home. With a touch of cream cheese frosting, they become an irresistible dessert that satisfies both chocolate lovers and those who enjoy a nutty crunch.

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:27:35.996Z

When I first combined chocolate and pistachio, I was amazed at how well the flavors worked together. The slight saltiness of the pistachios cuts through the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a perfectly balanced bite. I remember wanting to impress a group of friends, and these cupcakes were a huge hit! To enhance the pistachio flavor, I even added some ground pistachios into the batter.

Every time I make these cupcakes, I experiment with different frostings, but my favorite is a simple cream cheese frosting that adds a tangy sweetness. It's important to let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting them; otherwise, the frosting will melt and slide off. Trust me, waiting is totally worth it!

        Why You Will Love These Cupcakes
        Indulgent chocolate flavor complemented by crunchy pistachios
Moist and fluffy texture with a delightful cream cheese frosting
Visually stunning, perfect for celebrations or intimate gatherings

      

The Role of Ingredients

Understanding the role of each ingredient in these chocolate pistachio cupcakes is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture. For instance, unsweetened cocoa powder not only adds depth of flavor but also contributes to the cupcakes' moisture. When combined with granulated sugar, it brings out a rich chocolate taste that contrasts beautifully with the crunch of the pistachios. The buttermilk is another key player, providing acidity that helps make the cupcakes tender and fluffy, elevating the overall enjoyment.

Pistachios don't just serve as a delightful textural contrast in these cupcakes; they contribute a unique nutty flavor that harmonizes with the chocolate. Be sure to use fresh, high-quality pistachios for the best results. If you’re looking for a substitute, finely chopped walnuts or almonds can work, but they will impart a different flavor profile. The method of folding in the crushed pistachios gently after combining the wet and dry ingredients ensures that their crunchiness is preserved, rather than becoming over-mixed.

Perfecting Your Technique

To ensure your cupcakes rise perfectly, avoid over-mixing the batter once you've added the wet ingredients to the dry. Mixing just until combined helps maintain a light and fluffy texture. When pouring the batter into the cupcake liners, filling them about two-thirds full allows room for the cupcakes to expand without overflowing. It’s also important to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.

Cooling your cupcakes properly is just as important as baking them. After removing them from the oven, let them sit in the pan for about 10 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents the bottoms from steaming and becoming soggy. Once cool, they should feel springy to the touch; this indicates they have the right texture for frosting. Patience here pays off, as rushing this step can lead to a frosting melt-down!

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup crushed pistachios

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Crushed pistachios for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk. Mix until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the crushed pistachios.

Bake

Pour the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool

Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth.

Frost Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with cream cheese frosting and garnish with crushed pistachios.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a hint of almond extract to the frosting for enhanced flavor. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.

Frosting Tips

The cream cheese frosting for these cupcakes is both rich and tangy, complementing the chocolate perfectly. To get that smooth consistency, make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature; this prevents lumps and ensures a glossy finish. If your frosting seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired spreadable consistency without losing its structure.

For a touch of flair, consider flavoring your cream cheese frosting by adding a teaspoon of espresso powder or a drizzle of melted chocolate. These additions can elevate the frosting's taste profile, enhancing the overall experience. Always be sure to taste as you mix; a well-balanced frosting will enhance your cupcakes without overwhelming them.

Storage and Variations

If you have leftover cupcakes or wish to bake them ahead of time, these chocolate pistachio delights can be stored at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maintain their texture, place them in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they will keep well for up to three months.

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider substituting the cocoa powder with a flavored cocoa blend or using different nuts, such as hazelnuts or macadamia nuts. You can also turn these cupcakes into a layered cake by adjusting the baking time. Just remember to adjust the baking duration according to the size of the cake layers, usually 25-30 minutes for 9-inch rounds, but always check with a toothpick for doneness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Yes, you can substitute pistachios with walnuts or almonds, but it will change the flavor slightly.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Absolutely! Freeze unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.