Butter Pecan Picnic Bars

2 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. soda
1 tsp. allspice
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. butter or margarine
1 c. sugar
1/4 c. molasses
2 eggs
1 c. applesauce
1/2 c. chopped pecans or walnuts
1/2 c. butterscotch chips
confectioners sugar (optional)

Sift together the flour, soda, allspice and salt. Cream the butter and sugar
until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses until well blended. Add eggs and
beat well. Add flour mixture and applesauce alternately to creamed mixture,
beating until just blended after each addition. Stir in nuts and
butterscotch chips. Pour in greased and lightly floured 13 x 9-inch pan.
Bake at 350° for 25 to 30 minutes or until firm to touch; cool on rack.
Sprinkle with confectioners sugar, if desired.