2 c. raisins
1 c. boiling water
3/4 c. shortening
2 c. sugar
3 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
4 c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. cloves (opt.)
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1 c. chopped nuts

Add boiling water to raisins and cook 5 minutes. Set aside to cool. Cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla and beat well. Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and spices. Add alternating with raisin liquid to creamed mixture. Stir in nuts and raisins. Chill dough several hours or overnight. Drop by teaspoons and bake 350 degrees for about 12 minutes. Makes about nine dozen.