Jean Ferguson is VPR's Administrative Assitant.

I am learning why baking is such good therapy.  I was in a tizzy a couple of mornings ago and the mixing, measuring, baking, and sharing the finished bread with others have calmed the mind.

1 can (15.5 oz.) applesauce
2 eggs
1/4 c vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups Raisin Bran cereal
1 c packed brown sugar
1/2 c chopped walnuts or pecans, optional
2 1/2 c all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease a 9 x 5 x 3 inch loaf pan.

Combine applesauce, eggs, oil and vanilla in bowl; mix well. Stir in cereal; let stand 5 minutes.  Stir in brown sugar and nuts; mix well.  Combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg and 1/2 teaspoon salt in separate bowl.  Add cereal mixture all at once to flour mixture; stir just until moistened.  Pour evenly into prepared loaf pan.  Bake 65 to 75 minutes or until tester inserted in center comes out clean.  Let stand 15 minutes before removing from pan.