I came upon this contest by chance. So of course I jumped at the opportunity to bake! Brainstorming over several new cupcake ideas and the with the help of my sister (Carrie), my boyfriend (Clifton) and my very good friend (Ashley) I introduce to you 'The Trio' an amazing combination of salty and sweet!

Step 1: A Little Sweet to Start

First step is to preheat your oven to 350/325 depending on what bake ware you will be using. Then begin mixing together your favorite chocolate cake recipe or if you prefer something simpler just get your favorite boxed cake mix and prepare according to box.

Step 2: A Little Salt to Taste

Take some pretzels and place in a plastic zip lock bag and begin to crush.

Tip: Don't crush too fine or all you'll have is dust.

Step 3: Here We Go

Place crushed pretzels in the bottom as a layer of the cupcake wrapper. Follow the pretzel layer with your chocolate cake mix. Place in oven for approx. 18-23 minutes.

Step 4: Good Things Come in Threes

While your cupcakes bake. Time to prepare the icing.

1/4 cup peanut butter
2 tbs hot fudge
1/4 + cup (will vary) confectionery sugar
1 stick butter
1 package cream cheese (softened)
1 container cool whip (optional) used to make the icing fluffier.

Mix ingredients and place in fridge to keep cool

Step 5: The Final Touch

After your cupcakes have cooled. Place the icing on the cupcake any way you want. then sprinkle the remaining tiny bits of crushed pretzels on the top for a more appealing look but most importantly taste!!