Applesauce Bread and Grandmas

Grandmother. Memere. Grossmutter.  Mommom.  Gran.  Nonna. Mimi. Nan. Grandma. Babushka. Abuela.  Nana. Mamaw.  Nonni.  G-ma.

We all have different names for our grandmothers, but in the end they're still our grandmothers. It doesn't matter if you knew yours or if she is still around.  It doesn't matter if she looks like Mrs. Claus or she runs marathons.  We love our grandmas (even if sometimes we are a little scared of them).

My Grandma means the world to me.  I've always thought so.  In my senior English class, I wrote a paper about her.  I wish I could find a copy of it or remember what it said, though I doubt it did her justice.  I lived with my grandparents for a while when I was younger, and she was there to help raise me.  She has been a source of strength to me throughout my life. Even now, she always makes a point to call and encourage me and to send me funny cards no matter where I'm living or what I'm doing. She probably knows what is going on in my life better than I do! 

Grandma has been an inspiration -- I don't know anyone as brave, hardworking, or down-to-earth.   My grandparents have never had much money, but they make a point to help everyone.  My grandfather still works on the school bus, and he always keeps an eye out for kids that might need some help or encouragement.  My grandmother cooks for a local drug rehab center, her church, and a local camp.  She spreads love though her food. 

One of my favorite wedding presents was given to me by my Grandma. She gave me her mother's recipe box filled with hand-picked recipes that either my grandmother or my great-grandmother had loved.


As a tribute to my grandmother,  I'd like to share a recipe that she gave me.  Actually, this one came from my Great-Grandmother.  I have tweaked it some, but it's still her's.

Applesauce Bread

1 1/2 c. applesauce
1/2 c. shortening, melted
3/4 c. sugar
2 c. flour
2 tsp. soda
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
1 c. raisins or craisins
1 c. walnuts (optional)

1. Mix applesauce, sugar, and melted shortening.
2. Dissolve baking soda in a little hot water.
2. Add all dry ingredients, then baking soda. Mix well.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 45-60 minutes.

** I use craisins -- it's less authentic, but sooooo tasty!

YUMMY!

Trail Mix Cookies

Vacation is JUST around the corner and since we are planning on doing quite a bit of hiking, I decided to make Trail Mix Cookies to take along.  The best part about this recipe is that it can EASILY be adapted for a vegan or lactose-intolerant recipe.  I've included those directions.

A note about the trail mix:  You can use pre-made trail mix, but beware of the salt content in them.  I would recommend making your own (it's cheaper and better!!) using raw nuts and good dried fruit.  I used raw almonds, cashews, and sunflower seeds and dried cranberries, blueberries, and bananas. (You can see mine on the left.)

TRAIL MIX COOKIES! 

• 1 c. butter / butter substitute* (I used vegan Earth Balance)
• 1/2 c. sugar ** (Sugar in the Raw for better flavor)
• 1 c. brown sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 2 eggs *** (I used 1 egg and 1/2 mashed banana)
• 2 c. whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon 
•  1 1/2 c. oats
• 1 1/2 c. mixture chopped trail mix (I used almonds, cashews, sunflower seeds, dried blueberries, cranberries, and semisweet chocolate chips.)

*  You can also substitute1/2 c. pureed fruit or applesauce with 4 TBLS of oil for 1 c. of butter.

** I usually add just a little less sugar than the recipe stipulates

*** 1/2 mashed banana = 1 egg in sweet baking; in this recipe I highly recommend the banana -- its adds great flavor!

1. Beat butter, sugar & brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 min), then add eggs and vanilla.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Slowly add dry ingredients to wet while mixer is on low speed.  Mix until JUST combined.
4. Stir in oats and trail mix.
5. Chill for 30-60 minutes.
6. Form into 1-1/2 inch balls and bake at 350 degrees for 9-10 minutes.

Yields about 36

Buon Appetito!