2 1/2 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
3/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/4 tsp. baking powder
1/2 c. butter
2 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 (16 oz.) can applesauce
1/2 c. nuts (optional)

Grease and lightly flour 13 x 9 x 2 pan. Combine first 7 ingredients. In a mixer bowl beat butter with electric mixer 30 seconds. Add sugar and beat until well combined. Add eggs, one at a time, beating 1 minute after each. Add dry ingredients and applesauce alternately to beaten mixture, beating on a slow speed after each addition. Stir in nuts, if desired. Serve with Cool Whip or real whipped cream on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.