2 c. brown sugar
1 c. shortening
2 eggs
1 c. chopped nuts
2 c. chopped dates
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. allspice
1/2 tsp. ground cloves
2 c. beer or ale
3 c. sifted flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt

Cream sugar and shortening. Stir in eggs, nuts, dates, and spices. In a separate bowl sift together flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir in beer. Combine beer mixture with creamed mixture and stir until well blended. Bake in a large tube pan (2 1/2 quarts) at 350 degrees for 1 hour 15 minutes. If desired, serve with whipped cream.