1 c. shortening
2 1/2 c. sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. baking powder
5 1/4 c. plain flour
1 tsp. salt
Apple Filling

Heat oven to 425 degrees. Grease 7 (9 inch) or (8 inch) round pans. Cream shortening and sugar together. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Stir buttermilk, soda and baking powder together and mix into batter. Blend in flour and salt thoroughly. Divide into 7 or 9 portions. With floured hands, put portions into prepared pans. Bake at 425 degrees approximately 10 minutes. Let cool slightly before removing from pans. Stack layers with hot apple filling. Let stand at least 24 hours before cutting.

APPLE FILLING:

1 lb. dried apples
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 to 1 tsp. cloves
2 c. sugar

Cover apples with water about 1/2 inch above surface (approximately 5 to 6 cups water). Simmer 30 to 45 minutes until apples are mushy. Add remaining ingredients. Spread hot between layers. (If you use self-rising flour omit baking powder, soda and salt.)