Tracy's Mother's Raisin Drop Cookies

2 cups raisins
1 cup water
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup oil
2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp allspice
2 cups sugar
3 eggs
1 tsp pure vanilla
5 cups flour (but only 8 if doubled)
1 tsp baking powder
1 cup chopped nuts
1 cup applesauce

Add water to raisins and boil 5 minutes in heavy saucepan. Cool for 30 minutes then add baking soda. Blend  oil with sugar, salt, and spices, creaming thoroughly. Add eggs, vanilla, and cooled raisin mixture. Add flour then baking powder. Stir in nuts. Bake at 400 degrees in the oven for 15 minute. Makes 5 dozen or more.