Molasses Fruitcake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
2. 2
   Butter 2 9x5 loaf pans.
3. 3
   Line them with foil and butter again.
4. 4
   Mix spices with the flour and take a small amount and dust the foil lined pans with it.
5. 5
   Set pans aside.
6. 6
   Take baking soda and add to the flour and spice mixture.
7. 7
   Set aside.
8. 8
   Cream butter then add brown sugar to it.
9. 9
   Cream again until sugar is incorporated.
10. 10
    Add lemon extract and eggs and beat well.
11. 11
    Add applesauce and molasses and blend.
12. 12
    Add flour/spice mixture and beat well.
13. 13
    Stir in candied fruit, citron, raisins and pecan.
14. 14
    Spoon into pans and cover tops with walnut meats.
15. 15
    Bake for 1- 1 1/4 hours (until toothpick comes out clean).
16. 16
    Let set for 7-10 minutes then turn out on racks and cool.
17. 17
    When completely cooled, wrap well and store in an airtight container.
18. 18
    *If you want brandied fruitcake: soak 2 pieces of cheesecloth in brandy.
19. 19
    Wrap fruitcake up with cheesecloth then wrap tightly with foil.
20. 20
    Open up every other day for a week and add additional brandy.
21. 21
    Serve away from flames.