iron cupcake milwaukee - candy

Since we love cupcakes, we again jumped at the chance to attend Milwaukee's monthly baking competition - Iron Cupcake Milwaukee. This month's theme ingredient was candy and I was very curious to see if the bakers would choose more obvious ingredients (like chocolate candy bars) or if they would try to use really unique candies. We were blown away by the creativity! Here are some of the most interesting designs from the candy cupcake challenge...

Jolly Ranchers
 

White Chocolate Buttons
 

(L) Smores - (R) Maple Nut Goodies and Boston Baked Beans
 

Popcorn and Root Beer Jelly Beans
  

A huge variety, including Swedish Fish
  

Cinnamon Red Hots
  

Mr. Lemonheads
 

 

We loaded up on samples and learned a few things about how we like candy in cupcakes. Topped with Nerds? Not a personal favorite. Topped with Pop Rocks? Or a caramelized Jelly Belly? Delicious!

I'm overwhelmed by all the ideas! Have you ever made a cupcake inspired by or using candy?