Photo by William P. Edwards
SERVES 10–12
1 cup light brown sugar
1 1/2 cups water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 cups raisins
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons water
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Combine brown sugar, water, oil, raisins and spices in a large saucepan and boil for 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Take pan off burner and let cool for 10 minutes. Dissolve baking soda and salt in 2 teaspoons of water and add to raisin mixture (it will foam). Stir in flour and baking powder and mix well. Pour into a greased 8-by-8-inch pan and bake for 35–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cake to cool for about 10 minutes.
BERYL ARBAUGH, AIKEN