2 c. applesauce
3 tbsp. cocoa
2 c. sugar
1 c. shortening
1 tbsp. butter
1 egg
3 c. plain flour
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. cinnamon
3 tbsp. baking soda, dissolved in 1 tbsp. hot water
3/4 c. chopped nuts
1 c. chopped dates

Bake at 350 degrees in tube pan for 1 hour. Frost with favorite chocolate icing.