1 c. shortening
2 c. sugar
2 eggs
4 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. soda
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1 1/2 c. canned applesauce
1 c. hot water
1 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2-3 c. spice gumdrops (not licorice)
1 pkg. (about 16 oz.) golden or dark raisins or chopped dates
1 c. chopped pecans

Heat oven to 325 degrees. Generously grease and flour two 9 x 5 x 3 inch pans. In large mixer bowl, cream shortening and sugar; blend in eggs. Mix dry ingredients and add alternately with combined applesauce, water and vanilla. Stir in gumdrops, raisins and pecans. Pour into pans. Bake 1 1/2-2 hours or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. 2 loaves.