INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup raisins

1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped

1 3/4 cups water

3/4 cup raw sugar or other sweetener

1/2 tsp salt

2 tsps cinnamon

1 tsp ginger

3/4 tsp nutmeg

1/4 tsp cloves

2 cups flour (Jennifer uses whole wheat pastry flour.)

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

PREPARATION:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Combine dried fruits, water, sugar, and spices in a large saucepan and bring to boil. Continue boiling for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and cool completely.

When fruit mixture is cool, mix in dry ingredients. Spread into a greased 9x9-inch pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

The Peaceful Palate , by Jennifer Raymond, published by Heart and Soul Publications. Reprinted by Permission.