Introduction
Love Reese’s? These Chocolate Pistachio Cups will change your world. Smooth, nutty pistachio butter meets rich dark chocolate in a treat that’s crunchy, creamy, and totally addictive. This recipe is a refined twist on traditional peanut butter cups—with a gourmet pistachio spin inspired by French macaron techniques.
Ready in under an hour, these little cups make the perfect gift, snack, or party dessert. They’re dairy-free, no-bake, and loaded with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re a chocolate addict or a pistachio lover, this combo will hit the sweet spot.
Don’t miss our Pistachio Ferrero Rocher Brownies for another luxurious pistachio-chocolate experience.
Ingredients for Chocolate Pistachio Cups
Pantry-Friendly Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup pistachio paste (puree 1 cup pistachios)
- 1 cup finely chopped pistachios
- 1/4 cup coconut manna or vegan butter
- 1/4 tsp fine salt
- 3/4 cup sifted powdered sugar
- 1/8 tsp almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups dairy-free dark chocolate chips
- 24–30 whole pistachios (for topping)
Why Pistachio Butter?
Pistachio butter is creamier and lighter in flavor than peanut butter. It pairs perfectly with dark chocolate. The almond extract enhances pistachio’s delicate flavor, a trick borrowed from top French patisseries.
How to Make Pistachio Paste and Crumbs
Homemade Pistachio Paste in 5 Minutes
- Add 1 cup shelled pistachios to a food processor.
- Pulse until oils release and a thick, creamy paste forms (3–5 mins).
- Scrape the sides as needed.
Making Pistachio Crumbs
- Add another cup of pistachios to the processor.
- Pulse into a fine crumb texture (about 45–60 seconds).
- Don’t over-process; keep some texture.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Pistachio Biscotti – The Crunchy Cookie for more nutty dessert ideas.
Making the Pistachio Filling
Combine These for the Best Flavor
- In a bowl, cream coconut manna or vegan butter.
- Add pistachio crumbs, sifted sugar, pistachio paste, and almond extract.
- Stir until smooth and thick.
- Shape into tablespoon-sized balls, flatten slightly.
Discover great ideas like Pistachio Cream Cookies for more delicious fillings.
Preparing the Chocolate Shells
Melt Your Chocolate Correctly
- Use a double boiler or heatproof bowl over simmering water.
- Stir dark chocolate chips until fully melted.
- Let sit off heat while preparing cups.
Layering the Cups
- Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Spoon 2 tsp melted chocolate into each cup.
- Tap tin gently to spread chocolate evenly.
Filling the Cups
How to Layer Pistachio and Chocolate
- Add a flattened scoop of pistachio mixture on top of the chocolate layer.
- Spoon another tablespoon of melted chocolate over the pistachio filling.
- Tap again to smooth the top layer.
- Make sure pistachio filling is fully covered.
Don’t miss our Chocolate Balls with Pistachio Kunefe Filling for more rich chocolate-pistachio ideas.
Topping and Chilling
Final Touches
- Place one whole pistachio on top of each cup.
- Refrigerate until set (around 30 minutes).
- Remove paper cups before serving.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Keeps well for up to 3 weeks.
Tips and Substitutions
Make it Your Way
- Swap almond extract for vanilla if needed.
- Use peanut butter instead of pistachio paste for a traditional twist.
- Add sea salt flakes on top for a sweet-salty contrast.
Check out Homemade Italian-Style Pistachio Cream to use inside your cups!
Serving Suggestions
When to Serve Chocolate Pistachio Cups
- Great for holidays, birthdays, and gift boxes.
- Use mini liners for bite-sized party treats.
- Pair with tea, coffee, or pistachio ice cream.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Cup (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 145 |
| Protein | 2.5g |
| Carbs | 10g |
| Sugars | 7g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
Low-carb, dairy-free, and packed with healthy fats—these treats are as guilt-free as they are irresistible.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a show-stopping yet easy treat, these Chocolate Pistachio Cups are your new go-to. Elegant, flavorful, and totally customizable. Try them today and impress your friends—or keep them all to yourself!
Learn more about Pistachio Mousse with Chocolate Ganache for a fancy layered dessert version of this flavor combo.