Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly oil a 13" x 9" cookie sheet; set aside.
In a large mixing bowl cream together the first 2 ingredients (shortening through brown sugar). Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Add the applesauce; blend well. Sift together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and spices.
Mix the flour alternately into creamed shortening. Add the chopped nuts & raisins; mix well. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto prepared cookie sheet. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes. Cool on wire rack. Place in ziplock bag for freshness.