A new year is upon us, and it is always fun to review the past years trends. Many do not realize that there are many trends in desserts. One year the cupcake is popular, the next year it is the pie that everyone loves. Here is a list of the top dessert trends of 2011. Which ones will die off this year and which ones will continue? We will find out as the year progresses.

1. The Cupcake. The cupcake trend has stuck with us for a few years now and is becoming a classic once again. Trendy cupcakes in 2011 had interesting twists to them. There was the cupcake on a stick, cupcakes with savory additions and even flaming cupcakes! This is one dessert that is destined to stand the test of time, and more interesting twists to this dessert are sure to come.

2. Sweet, Salty and Savory desserts. These dessert items have long been my favorites. Add a salty item to a sweet item and I cannot seem to stop indulging. This trend went beyond the chocolate covered pretzel in 2011. Chefs were adding hot peppers and even bacon to classic desserts. Remember the Denny's bacon sundae?

3. Wedding desserts that were not cakes. The wedding cake in 2011 was often replaced with a variety of other dessert items. Wedding cheesecakes, pies and even doughnuts were enjoyed at weddings instead of the typical, intricate wedding cake. This was not only a creative trend, but also an economical one.

4. Desserts packed with protein and healthy carbs. As American's are thankfully becoming more health-conscious, so are their desserts. High-protein desserts made with whole grains allowed people to indulge with less guilt. This is one trend that I personally hope will stick. Of course it is great to indulge every once in a while on a completely luxurious white flour and butter concoction, but for those who have to have dessert every day (I am in this group!), healthy desserts allow a daily indulgence that can fit into any healthy diet plan.