1/2 c. shortening
1 c. white sugar
1 c. molasses
2 eggs
1/2 c. buttermilk or less
2 level tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. each: ginger, allspice, cinnamon and nutmeg
4 c. all-purpose flour

Beat eggs, sugar, oil, molasses and buttermilk. Put all dry ingredients in separate bowl. Mix together. If too thin to work, add self-rising flour.

Bake at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes.

Topping:

16 oz. applesauce
1 tsp. cinnamon

Mix together and spread between layers, topping with this mixture.