2 c. light brown sugar
4 tbsp. Crisco
2 c. hot water
1 lb. seedless muscat raisins
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. salt
1 c. chopped nuts
1 tbsp. baking soda
3 c. plain flour

Put first 8 ingredients in a heavy pan. Simmer for 5 minutes. Cover and cool several hours or overnight.

Dissolve soda in 1 tablespoon lukewarm water. Stir into mixture, then stir in flour. Pour into three 9 inch pans. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes. Use a caramel icing on layers.