Preheat oven to 350F degrees.
In a teacup or small bowl, soak raisins 10-15 minutes in 2 tablespoons rum.
Cream together butter and sugar, adding sugar gradually until mixture is light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir together raisins, rum from soaking and applesauce; stir gently into mixture.
On a sheet of wax paper, sift together flour, soda, and spices, mixing well. Fold flour mixture into wet ingredients (first mixture). Stir in chopped nuts.
Turn batter into a greased and floured loaf pan. Bake in preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until cake tester (or toothpick) inserted in center comes out clean.
Note: Craisins or fresh cranberries may be substituted for raisins. (Fresh cranberries do not need to be soaked).
Submitted by: CM
