1¾ hours | 30 min prep | 1 loaf

Ingredients

3/4       cup chopped walnuts
1           cup chopped dates
1 1/2     teaspoons baking soda
1/2         teaspoon salt
1            cup applesauce
3            tablespoons shortening
2            eggs
1            teaspoon vanilla
1            cup sugar
1 1/2     cups flour

Directions

1.         Mix the walnuts, dates, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl.
2.         Microwave the applesauce in a microwave safe bowl until heated through.
3.         Add shortening to the applesauce and stir until melted.
4.         Add applesauce mixture to walnut mixture and mix well.
5.         Let stand, loosely covered, for 20 minutes.
6.         Beat the eggs in a large mixing bowl using a fork.
7.         Add the vanilla, sugar and flour and mix well.
8.         The mixture will be very dry.
9.         Add the walnut mixture 1.4 at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
10.        Do not over beat.
11.        Spoon into a greased 9x5 loaf pan.
12.        Bake at 350º for 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
13.        Cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
14.        Invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
15.        Wrap in foil and store for 8 to 12 hours before slicing