Eggless, Milkless, Butterless Cake

This recipe was shared with us by Capt. Ed Altman. The recipe, know as War Cake, Depression Cake, and Boiled Raisin Cake, dates at least to the Civil War, but was revived during World War II due to the rationing of some typical cake ingredients.

Put into a saucepan the following:
1 Cup Brown Sugar
1 Cup Water
2 Cups Seeded Raisins
1/3 Cup Lard
1/4 tsp. Grated Nutmeg
1 tsp. Cinnamon
1 tsp. Ground Cloves
Pinch of Salt

Boil together 3 minutes. When cold, add 1 scant teaspoon of soda dissolved in hot water, 2 cups of Flour in which 1/2 teaspoon of Baking Powder has been sifted.

Bake in moderate (325 degree) oven in a greased and floured 8×8 inch pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (50-60 minutes); let cool for 10 to 15 minutes, then turn out of the pan onto a serving plate.