E-B-M Spice Cake*

2 c. granulated sugar
2 c. water
2 c. raisins
1 c. currants
1 c. shortening or vegetable oil
1 t. cinnamon
1-1/2 t. cloves
1-1/4 t. nutmeg
1 t. salt
1 t. baking soda
2 T. warm water
4 c. flour
2 t. baking powder
1-1/2 c. chopped nuts

Grease and flour a 9 x 13 baking pan. Heat oven to 325 degrees.

Combine sugar, water, raisins, currants, and shortening or oil in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and boil for 3 minutes. Cool slightly.

Add cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, and mix well. Allow to cool and then add salt, baking soda, and warm water. Mix well. Sift flour with baking powder and add to batter. Stir in nuts. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 60 minutes.

Serves 15.

*This recipe was used during World War I when there was rationing. The name comes from the fact that it contains no eggs, butter, or milk.

Adapted from Florida Heritage Cook Book, p. 47.