James Westfall's Applesauce Cake

Step 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a fluted cake pan with cooking spray.

Step 2
Beat sugar and shortening together in a bowl using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy; beat in eggs until incorporated.

Step 3
Combine applesauce, water, and baking soda in a saucepan over medium heat; stir until heated through, about 2 minutes. Stir applesauce mixture into shortening mixture; add vanilla extract.

Step 4
Whisk flour, cinnamon, salt, baking powder, and ground cloves together in a bowl. Gradually stir applesauce mixture into flour mixture until just combined. Fold in raisins and walnuts. Pour into prepared cake pan.

Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean, about 1 hour. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes and transfer cake to a plate.