Here's a yummy dessert from The Complete Around the World Cookbook.

1. Plump raisins by cooking them in water 10 minutes; strain and reserve 1 cup liquid.

2. Add baking soda to reserved raisin liquid; set aside.

3. Cream together butter, sugar, eggs, salt and spices until fluffy.

4. Add flour and liquid alternately, beating well after each addition.

5. Stir in raisins and nuts; beat thoroughly.

6. Pour into a well-greased 1-inch tube pan; bake in preheated 325 degree oven 1 1/2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

7. Cool on wire rack before removing from pan.