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Leslie Fiet, owner of Mini's Cupcakes in Salt Lake City, along with her assistant Stephanie Deer, won last night's episode of "Cupcake Wars."
The episode, which was filmed in July, was especially notable because it introduced Food Network judges Candace Nelson and Florian Bellanger — as well as viewers — to Utah fry sauce.
In the initial round, participants were required to create a cupcake that fit the "All American" theme. The Mini's team decided to go with the hamburger and french fry option — as opposed to pot pie or apple pie. Their cheeseburger cupcake included bits of ground beef, and was topped with a frosting made of heavy cream and ketchup — a la pink fry sauce — and then garnished with lettuce, tomatoes and French fries. (See the photo attached)
In the second round, the Mini's team impressed judges with more traditional cupcake flavors including: a coconut cupcake with lime/mascarpone filling; a fresh lime and basil cake with raspberry filling; and a double shot chocolate espresso cupcake. (The recipe for that is published on the Food Network website.)
As the winner, Fiet and Deer received $10,000 and their display, filled with cheerleader cut outs and pom poms, was featured at a national cheerleading event.
This week, Utah customers can sample the three sweet flavors — sorry, not the cheeseburger — at the two Mini's Cupcake locations in Salt Lake City. A six-pack (2 of each flavor) sells for $15.
Mini's Cupcakes • 14 East 800 South, Salt Lake City; Open Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; and Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Mini's Cupcakes • 1751 S. 1100 East; Salt Lake City; 801) 746-2208. Open Monday – Friday 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; and Saturday 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.