A simple spiced cupcake, perfect for Halloween or fall celebrations
Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and sugars. Add the egg and mix until well combined.
Alternately add the flour mixture and the applesauce to the mixing bowl.
In a small bowl, toss the raising with the 1 tablespoon additional flour. Stir the flour into the batter.
Spoon the batter into cupcake liners until about 2/3 full. Bakes at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.
When the cupcakes are cool, whisk together the powdered sugar and apple cider or other liquid. It should form a slightly stiff icing. Frost the cupcakes and decorate with chocolate chips or raisins to form a face (we used strawberries for the mouth). Alternately, use your favorite frosting and pipe it onto the cupcakes.