1/2 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1 can tomato soup
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. dates or raisins
2 c. flour
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking powder
Nuts (optional)

Cream shortening and sugar until light; add eggs and vanilla. Sift together flour, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and baking powder. Dissolve soda in the tomato soup and add to mixture. Add small amount of flour to the raisins or dates before adding to cake mixture. Add nuts, if desired. Bake in greased 9 x 13 inch pan for 30 to 35 minutes at 350 degrees.