Almond Cupcakes with Pistachio Frosting (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Cupcakes

01 - 1 box Pillsbury Moist Supreme Creamy Almond Cake Mix
02 - 1 cup whole milk
03 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
04 - 3 large eggs
05 - 1/2 cup sour cream
06 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
07 - St. Patrick's Day cupcake liners, if desired

→ For the Frosting

08 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
09 - 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
10 - 4 cups powdered sugar
11 - 1 1/2 tsp pistachio extract
12 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
13 - 2 tbsp heavy cream, only if needed
14 - Green food coloring
15 - Crushed pistachios for topping

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a cupcake pan with St. Patrick's Day-themed cupcake liners or regular liners.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond cake mix, whole milk, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
03 - Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
04 - Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
05 - Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, pistachio extract, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until combined, then increase to high speed and mix until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
06 - Add a few drops of green food coloring and mix until the color is evenly distributed.
07 - Using an open round piping tip, pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes, or spread it with a knife. Sprinkle crushed pistachios on top and serve.

# Notes:

01 - For the best texture, make sure all refrigerated ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
02 - If you can't find almond cake mix, you can use white or vanilla cake mix and add 1 teaspoon of almond extract.
03 - Store frosted cupcakes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.