4 1/4 cups water
1 cup butter or other shortening
5 eggs, beaten
1 cup buttermilk or yogurt
3 1/2 cups raisins
1/2 lb. dates and figs
1 cup nuts
3 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 cup lard
2 tsp. ginger
3 tsp. cinnamon
3 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. salt
8 cups flour

Mix together well and drop on greased cookie sheet and bake at about 350°F until done.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes.