1/4 cup shortening
1 tablespoon butter
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 1/2 cups water
2 teaspoons lemon juice or dark rum (optional)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 1/4 cups sifted flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup golden raisins
1/2 cup dried cranberries or blueberries
1/2 cup chopped dates
1/2 cup chopped nuts
whipped cream or ice cream

Preheat oven to 325°F.

Place butter, brown sugar and water in a heavy bottom 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking pan, heat pan on stove until boiling, stirring occasionally. (Be careful not to scorch.)

Boil for 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice or rum, if desired.

Sift together into a mixing bowl granulated sugar, flour, baking powder and cinnamon.

Using a pastry blender or large fork, cut in shortening, until mixture has the consistency of coarse cornmeal. Gradually pour in milk, mixing well. Stir in raisins, dried fruits and nuts.

Drop batter by the tablespoonful, evenly into hot syrup.

Bake in preheated 325°F oven for 50 to 55 minutes or until browned.

Let cool for one hour and serve warm or serve cold topped with whipped cream or ice cream.

Submitted by: Belle