1ST STEP:

2 c. sugar (1 brown, 1 white)
1/2 c. molasses
1 1/2 c. shortening (butter)
2 c. water
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. salt

Boil all above for 5 minutes; cool.

2ND STEP:

Mix with:

1 1/2 c. flour
3 c. nuts (whole)
3-4 lbs. candied fruit (dates or other fruit as desired)
2 c. raisins (to dredge fruits)

3RD STEP:

In separate bowl mix:

4 eggs, well beaten
1 tsp. baking soda dissolved in 4 tsp. water

Add:

3 c. flour

Add all to 1st step. Mix. Bake at 325 degrees for 1 1/2 hours.