Honey Pistachio Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

This cupcake evokes the flavors of Baklava in a modern form. The richness of the pistachios and their distinctive, slightly salty taste contrast beautifully with the floral sweetness of honey. Coarsely chopped nuts in the batter add a crunchy texture to the soft sponge, while the cream cheese topping brings lightness to the rich base.
🕒 Prep Time 25 mins
🍳 Cook Time 20 mins
Total Time 1 hr
🍽️ Servings 12 servings
🔥 Calories 340 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Middle Eastern Inspired

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Muffin Tin: With liners.
  • Knife: For chopping pistachios.
  • Mixer: For the batter.

Allergen Information

⚠️ Wheat
⚠️ Milk
⚠️ Egg
⚠️ Tree Nuts (Pistachio)

Instructions

1

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Coarsely chop the pistachios.

Tip: Don't grind them completely; larger pieces add nice crunch.
2

Whisk together the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt).

Tip: Use a whisk to aerate the flour.
3

Cream the softened butter with the sugar and honey until fluffy, then add the eggs and vanilla.

Tip: Honey adds weight to the batter, so good aeration is crucial.
4

Mix in the flour mixture and milk alternately.

Tip: Work quickly but gently.
5

Fold in 3/4 of the pistachios.

Tip: Reserve the rest for garnish.
6

Bake for 18-20 minutes. Let cool completely.

Tip: Test with a toothpick!
7

For the frosting, whip the cream cheese with powdered sugar and heavy cream until smooth and fluffy.

Tip: Use cold heavy cream.
8

Frost the cupcakes, top with reserved pistachios, and drizzle with a little honey before serving.

Tip: Drizzle the honey fresh, as it will soak into the frosting over time.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use salted pistachios?
Yes! Salted pistachios (if not excessively salty) highlight the sweet flavors very well. If using unsalted, add a pinch more salt to the batter.
Why did the pistachios sink?
Heavy nuts tend to sink. Toss them in a little flour before folding into the batter; this helps them 'grip' the dough.

Ingredients

  • 1.66 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 0.25 cup Honey
  • 1 stick Unsalted Butter (softened)
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 0.5 cup Whole Milk
  • 2 tsp Baking Powder
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 pinch Salt
  • 0.75 cup Shelled Pistachios (unsalted or lightly salted)
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar
  • 0.25 cup Heavy Cream