Applesauce Cupcakes

Stir shortening to soften, then gradually add sugar and cream until light and fluffy. Add eggs, and mix well.

Sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, cloves, and salt.

Add dry mixture to creamed mixture alternating with apple sauce, a small amount at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth. If using, fold in raisins and nuts.

Bake in lined muffin pans at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.

Makes 15-20 cupcakes.

* Often, I substitute the listed spices with a 1/4 teaspoon each of clove, allspice, and ginger for a spicier cupcake.

**Adding the optional ingredients increases the number of cupcakes yielded. The base recipe yields 15 cupcakes.