1 1/2 c. oil
2 c. sugar
4 eggs, separated
1/2 c. water
2 1/4 c. flour
3 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 1/2 c. grated raw sweet potatoes
1 c. nuts
1 tsp. vanilla

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Beat oil with sugar. Add eggs, beating well after each addition.

Stir in remaining ingredients in order given, adding nuts and vanilla last. Mix just until blended, about 30 seconds.

Turn batter out into a greased and lightly floured (tap out excess) loaf pan and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Remove from oven and after 5 minutes, run a knife around edge of pan to free the cake. Cool on wire rack. Brush with melted butter while still warm and drizzle lightly with confectioners sugar icing, if desired.

To make icing, add a few drops of vanilla (1 or 2 drops will do) to 1/2 cup confectioners sugar; stir in a few drops of water at a time until mixture is of correct consistency to pour over cake. Stir well.