Recipe: Mountain Cupcakes

Preparation

1. Cake Mix:
2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line muffin pan with paper liners.
3. In a bowl, combine cocoa powder, flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
4. In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar.
5. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each.
6. Add vanilla.
7. Alternate between adding flour mixture and applesauce.
8. Fold in chocolate chips and chopped walnuts.
9. Bake 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Frosting:
11. Combine softened cream cheese, butter and vanilla extract together in mixer and beat until creamy. Slowly add powdered sugar and beat on medium speed, scraping down sides of bowl, until smooth and fluffy.
12. Spread or pipe frosting evenly over cupcake.
13. Top with sprinkles, nuts, or cherries, as desired.