Pistachio Almond Cupcakes (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cupcake Ingredients

01 - 1 box of Pillsbury Moist Supreme Creamy Almond Cake Mix
02 - 1 cup of whole milk
03 - 3 large eggs
04 - 1/2 cup of sour cream
05 - 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
06 - 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
07 - Seasonal cupcake liners, optional

→ Frosting Ingredients

08 - 8 ounces of softened cream cheese
09 - 1/2 cup of softened salted butter
10 - 4 cups of powdered sugar
11 - 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
12 - 1 1/2 teaspoons of pistachio extract
13 - Optional: 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, for consistency
14 - Green food coloring
15 - Chopped pistachios for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Heat your oven to 350°F. Line your cupcake tray with either themed or plain liners, depending on your vibe.
02 - Mix together the cake mix, milk, eggs, oil, sour cream, and vanilla in a big bowl. Keep going until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
03 - Scoop the batter into the liners, filling them no more than two-thirds of the way up.
04 - Pop the pan into the oven and bake for about 18-22 minutes. They're done when a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool fully before moving on to frosting.
05 - Blend the cream cheese and butter together until the texture is silky. Slowly mix in the powdered sugar, pistachio extract, and vanilla. Start at a slow speed, then beat on high until it’s fluffy. Too thick? Add a tablespoon of cream at a time until it’s just right.
06 - Stir a bit of green food dye into your frosting, adding more until the green looks vibrant and evenly mixed.
07 - Frost the cooled cupcakes using a round piping tip for a clean look, or spread with a knife. Sprinkle some crushed pistachios on top, and you’re good to go!

# Notes:

01 - For better results, let all your chilled ingredients warm up to room temperature before starting.
02 - Can’t find almond cake mix? Grab a vanilla or plain one and stir in 1 teaspoon of almond extract.
03 - Keep your frosted cupcakes in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let them warm up on the counter before eating for their best taste.