Applesauce Loaf Cake

This recipe can be doubled or tripled.

1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup lard
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup raisins
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 cups flour
1/2 cup black walnuts, chopped
1 heaping tablespoon cocoa powder

Heat applesauce in large saucepan. Add lard. Stir until melted. Add raisins and baking soda. Cool slightly. Add flour, salt and spices. Mix well. Fold in nut meats. Pour into a greased large loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Cool and frost with Caramel Frosting.

Caramel Frosting:
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup milk
1 cup confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Boil brown sugar, butter and milk for 3 minutes ( I do this in the Microwave) and let cool until just warm.

Add confectioners' sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and right consistency. If too stiff you can add a little milk.