Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Mini Rose Pistachio Cupcakes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 30 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 24 mini cupcakes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Mini Rose Pistachio Cupcakes are delicate, bite-sized treats that combine the nutty flavor of pistachios with the subtle floral aroma of rose water. Perfectly moist and topped with a creamy rose-flavored frosting, these cupcakes are an elegant dessert inspired by Middle Eastern flavors.


Ingredients

For the cupcakes:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup shelled unsalted pistachios (finely ground)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon rose water
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk

For the rose frosting:

  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon rose water
  • Pink food coloring (optional)

For garnish:

  • Chopped pistachios
  • Dried rose petals (optional)


Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini muffin pan with 24 mini cupcake liners. This ensures even baking and easy removal.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, ground pistachios, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and nuts.
  3. Cream butter and sugar: In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the batter.
  4. Add eggs and flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Then mix in the rose water and vanilla extract for aroma and flavor.
  5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two additions, alternating with the milk, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
  6. Fill cupcake liners: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared liners, filling each about two-thirds full for proper rising and shape.
  7. Bake cupcakes: Bake for 12–15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before frosting.
  8. Prepare frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Mix in rose water and a drop of pink food coloring if desired.
  9. Frost cupcakes: Pipe or spread the rose frosting onto the cooled cupcakes evenly for a beautiful finish.
  10. Garnish and serve: Top with chopped pistachios and dried rose petals for added texture and a decorative touch before serving.

Notes

  • Use rose water sparingly, as its flavor can easily overpower the cupcakes.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute plant-based butter and cream cheese.
  • Ensure pistachios are finely ground to blend smoothly into the batter.
  • Mini cupcakes are perfect for parties or delicate desserts.
  • Cool cupcakes completely before frosting to prevent melting or sliding of frosting.