2 c. sifted flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 c. shortening, soft
1 c. sugar
2 eggs, unbeaten
1 c. thick, cold applesauce
3/4 c. raisins or chopped dates
1/2 c. chopped walnuts (optional)

Sift together dry ingredients and spices. Cream shortening, sugar and eggs. Add applesauce, raisins or dates, walnuts and sifted mixture to the creamed ingredients. Pour into greased deep 8 or 9-inch square baking pan (sprinkled with flour) and bake in a preheated 350 degree oven about 45 minutes.