1 c. cold water
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. soft shortening
3/4 c. raisins
1 tsp. baking soda
1 3/4 to 2 c. flour
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 c. chopped nuts

Boil raisins in water 3 minutes; cool; add spices, baking soda, flour, and nuts. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes in floured and greased pan. May be frosted with cream cheese frosting.