2 c. applesauce
1 c. butter
2 c. sugar
3 c. plain flour
2 c. nuts (or more)
2 eggs
1/4 tsp. salt
2 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp. allspice
2 tsp. cloves
2 tsp. nutmeg
2 tsp. ginger
2 tsp. baking soda
2 c. raisins
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 lb. candied cherries
1 c. chopped dates

Other fruit can be added if wanted.

Mix applesauce and soda; let set. Cream sugar and butter. Beat eggs and add to sugar and shortening. Sift flour and spices together and add alternately with applesauce to sugar mixture. Add vanilla. Add floured raisins and nuts. Lastly, add candied cherries. Bake 1 hour and 45 minutes (or test to see if done) in oven at 350 degrees. Bake in large tube pan. May be stored and kept for several weeks.