Shaker Gourmet: Spicy Autumn Apple Bread

This recipe comes from a book I received for my birthday, Celebrating the Great Mother: A Handbook of Earth-Honoring Activities for Parents and Children. I haven't tried it yet but it's on my list to make this week after I get out to the apple farm.

Spicy Autumn Apple Bread
2.5 cups grated (peeled & cored) apple
2 cups raisins
1.5 cups boiling water
3 tablespoons oil
1 cup + 2 tablespoons honey
1.5 tsp. cinnamon
1.5 tsp. allspice
1.5 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground cloves
3 cups whole-wheat flour
1.5 tsp. baking soda
3/4 cup chopped walnuts

Place apples and raisins in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Pour oil on top and allow to soak for 10 minutes. Add honey, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and cloves and allow to cool. In another bowl, sift together flour and baking soda. Combine with fruit mixture and stir in walnuts. Pour into two greased loaf pans. Bake in preheated 350 degree oven for approximately one hour.

Have I mentioned I love cool weather and all the warm, delicious foods it brings?

If you'd like to participate in Shaker Gourmet, email me (include a blog link!) at: shakergourmet (at) gmail.com