1 c. water
1 c. raisins
1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. brown sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. allspice
1 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. nuts, optional

Combine in pan all ingredients in first column plus salt and allspice. Mix and bring to a boil. Add remaining ingredients. Mix thoroughly. Pour batter into greased and floured 8 x 8 inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Serve plain, whipped topping or icing.