Copycat Starbucks Chocolate Pistachio Loaf Recipe

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This Starbucks Chocolate Pistachio Loaf, with its perfect balance of rich chocolate, subtle pistachio flavor, and that irresistible crunch of pistachio pieces on top, feels like a small luxury paired with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The good news is—you don’t have to wait in the Starbucks line to enjoy it.

How to make Starbucks Chocolate Pistachio Loaf

Starbucks Chocolate Pistachio Loaf is a limited-time bakery item that Starbucks added to its menu as part of a new globally-inspired pastry lineup.

Ingredients

For the Batter:

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (50g) cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
• ⅓ cup (80ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt (for extra moistness)
• ½ cup (60g) shelled pistachios (finely chopped, unsalted)

For the Pistachio Cake Swirl:

• 1 cup (120g) pistachio flour (or grind shelled pistachios into a fine powder)
• 1 tsp pistachio extract (optional, for enhanced flavor)
• A drop or two of green food coloring (optional, for Starbucks visual inspiration)

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup shelled pistachios (roughly chopped, unsalted)
• Optional: A sprinkle of chocolate chips or a swirl of melted white chocolate for design.

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare Your Baking Tools: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Stir the Wet Ingredients: Using a stand or hand mixer, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (around 2-3 minutes). Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Incorporate Milk & Sour Cream: Reduce the mixer’s speed and alternate between adding the dry ingredients, milk, and sour cream to the creamed butter mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix!

5. Separate & Customize: Divide the batter into two halves in separate bowls; Chocolate Batter, To one half, fold in cocoa powder and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios. Pistachio Batter, To the other half, fold in the pistachio flour, pistachio extract, and green food coloring (optional).

6. Layer and Swirl: Pour alternate layers of chocolate and pistachio batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a skewer or knife to create gentle swirls, blending the two flavors beautifully (don’t overdo the swirl!).

7. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the remaining chopped pistachios over the top for that signature crunch. Press lightly so they stick to the batter.

8. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent the loaf with aluminum foil halfway through.

9. Cool & Serve: Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve alongside your favorite Starbucks-inspired coffee or a warm cup of tea.

Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Pistachio Loaf

• Use Fresh Pistachios for Flavor: Opt for unsalted pistachios, as salted ones can alter the overall sweetness and flavor balance.
• Create That Moist Texture: The combination of sour cream or Greek yogurt with milk ensures the loaf stays as moist as Starbucks’ version. Avoid skipping or replacing these ingredients!
• Make it Green and Fun: While the pistachio extract and green food coloring are optional, they add that visual and flavor pop Starbucks fans will recognize.
• Experiment with Swirls: Use a light hand when swirling the batters together—the key is to achieve a marbled look without completely mixing the two batters.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix for a gluten-friendly option.
• Storage Advice: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. Warm slices briefly in the microwave to enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

What to serve with

Starbucks Chocolate Pistachio Loaf is a decadent fusion of rich chocolate notes and subtle pistachio flavors, topped with a nutty crunch. While it’s absolutely delightful on its own, pairing it with the right accompaniments enhances the experience and makes each bite even more memorable.

Coffee Pairings

• Espresso: The bold, strong flavor of espresso beautifully balances out the loaf’s sweet and nutty flavors. A double shot with a splash of milk works well for those who prefer a creamier option.
• Caffè Latte: The creamy, mild notes of a steamed milk latte pair effortlessly with the pistachio’s nuttiness and the chocolate’s richness. For festive vibes, sprinkle a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top.
• Cold Brew Coffee: For a refreshing pairing, the smooth, slightly sweet taste of cold brew matches the Starbucks Chocolate Pistachio Loaf’s chocolate and nutty characteristics without overpowering it.

Tea Pairings

• Green Tea or Matcha Latte: The natural grassy notes of green tea or a matcha latte harmonize perfectly with the pistachio flavor, while its subtle sweetness contrasts well with the rich chocolate.
• Earl Grey Tea: With its citrusy, bergamot undertones, Earl Grey enhances the loaf’s earthy pistachio notes and adds a touch of elegance to your snack.
• Rooibos Tea: Naturally sweet with vanilla-like undertones, rooibos tea complements the loaf’s sweetness and adds a caffeine-free option for afternoon gatherings.

Milk-Based Beverages

• Hot Chocolate: Double up on chocolate indulgence! Serve a cup of rich, creamy hot chocolate for a cozy, velvety pairing experience. For added sophistication, garnish with a dash of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios.
• Warm Vanilla Almond Milk: This subtle, nutty milk drink enhances the pistachio flavor and balances the chocolate’s boldness.

Final Thoughts

Making your own Starbucks Chocolate Pistachio Loaf at home is as rewarding as it is fun! This recipe lets you customize the loaf’s sweetness and flavors, delivering the same irresistibly rich, nutty experience from Starbucks—all made with love in your home kitchen.

More Starbucks Recipes:

• Copycat Starbucks Dubai Chocolate Bites Recipe