Instructions: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Film the inside of a 9-by-9-by-2-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Stir together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and allspice in a large mixing bowl. Toss the raisins with 1 tsp. of the flour mixture and set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the butter-shortening mixture, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract and applesauce. Pour the liquid ingredients over the flour mixture, add the raisins and dates, and stir to form a batter.

Spoon the batter into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 24 min., or until set. Place on a cooling rack and cool completely.

Cut into 16 squares. For serving, sift a little confectioners sugar over the top of the squares, if you wish. (Makes 16 bar cookies)

"Serve these cake-like bars very fresh, with warm cider or strong coffee."

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