Nothing says "Happy Birthday" like a chocolate cake made from scratch...
1/2 cup Crisco shortening
1 1/4 cup white sugar
2 eggs
2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cocoa
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 1/4 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp cloves (powder)
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1 1/2 cup of applesauce
1/2 cup water
1 cup raisins (or a bit more if you like)
Cream shortening, add suger and eggs. Beat well. Sift flour and spices together. Add alternately with apple sauce and water, beating well after each addition. Stir in raisins. Put into 13x9 inch pan and bake at 325 F for 50 minutes.