1 (16 oz.) box dark brown sugar
2 c. hot water
3 tbsp. Crisco
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cloves
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. allspice
1 (15 oz.) pkg. seedless raisins
1 tsp. baking soda
3 c. flour
1/2 c. pecans or walnuts (optional)

Except for flour and baking soda, boil all ingredients together for 5 minutes. Pour into large mixing bowl. Mix soda with a little hot water and add. Then add flour a cup at a time; mix thoroughly.

Bake in a greased tube pan for approximately 1 hour in a 350°F to 375°F oven.