Introduction

These easy bakery-style pistachio muffins combine a tender crumb with a delightful nutty flavor and a sweet, crunchy sugar coating. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat, they bring a touch of bakery magic right into your kitchen.

The image shows several round pastries placed in white paper liners, each pastry having two visible layers. The bottom layer is slightly browned and looks soft and sponge-like, while the top layer is pale green with a crumbly texture. The green layer is sprinkled with chopped nuts, mainly pistachios, and dusted with powdered sugar, giving a sparkly effect. The pastries rest closely together on a dark surface, creating a cozy and inviting display. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup salted butter (melted)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 box instant pistachio pudding mix (3.4 oz)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk (room temperature)
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (spoon measured)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
1/2 cup melted butter (for coating)
1/4 cup pistachios (chopped fine, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with parchment or cupcake liners, or generously grease it with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment to beat the 3/4 cup sugar and 1/2 cup melted butter for about 2 minutes until light and creamy. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing just until combined.
Step 3: Sprinkle in the pistachio pudding mix and pour in the milk. Stir gently until combined. Then add the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing just until the flour is barely incorporated—be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin liners, filling each about three-quarters full. If using, sprinkle the tops with finely chopped pistachios.
Step 5: Bake at 425°F for 7 minutes. Without opening the oven, reduce the heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool.
Step 6: While muffins are still warm enough to handle, dip the tops in the melted butter, then roll them in the 1/2 cup sugar until evenly coated. Return to the wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, toast the pistachios lightly before chopping and adding to the batter or as a topping.
If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use a vegan butter alternative.
To add a citrus twist, mix in 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest into the batter.

Storage

Store leftover muffins covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap individually and refrigerate for up to 5 days. These muffins also freeze well for up to 3 months; simply thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows seven pistachio muffins arranged closely on a white plate, each wrapped in crinkled brown parchment paper liners. The muffins have a golden-brown top with a light green tint from the pistachio, sprinkled generously with crushed pistachio bits and a dusting of powdered sugar, creating a textured and slightly crumbly surface. The muffins have a slightly domed shape, and their edges peek over the liners, revealing a moist, dense crumb. The plate sits on a white marbled surface that adds a soft, bright contrast to the warm tones of the muffins. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just be sure to add a pinch more salt to the batter to balance the flavors.

Can I make these muffins without the pistachio pudding mix?

The pistachio pudding mix adds moisture and flavor, but you can substitute with 1/4 cup sour cream or yogurt plus 1/2 teaspoon almond extract to maintain a similar texture and taste.