Ingredients
1 cup butter, softened1 cup sugar1 cup packed brown sugar4 large eggs2 cups unsweetened applesauce1 teaspoon vanilla extract3 cups small gumdrops1-1/2 cups chopped pecans1-1/2 cups chopped dates1 cup raisins1/3 cup red candied cherries, cut in half4 cups all-purpose flour, divided2 teaspoons baking soda2 teaspoons ground cinnamon1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Preparation
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, applesauce and vanilla (batter will appear curdled). Remove black gumdrops and save for another use. In a large bowl, combine the gumdrops, pecans, dates, raisins, cherries and 1 cup flour; toss to coat. Combine the baking soda, cinnamon, pie spice and remaining flour; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Fold in gumdrop mixture.
Pour into two greased 9x5-in. loaf pans. Bake at 300° for 45 minutes; cover loosely with foil. Bake 45 minutes longer or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
