GINGERBREAD CAKE WITH FRUITS

1/2 cup raisins, optional

1/3 cup pitted dates, chopped
1 3/4 cups water
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsps ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
3/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves
2 cups pastry flour

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp baking powder

Combine the raisins and dates with the water,sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves in a large saucepan; bring to a boil.  Boil for 2 minutes; remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a small mixing bowl combine the flour, baking soda, and baking powder; add to the fruit 

Combine the raisins and dates with the water,sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and mixture.  Stir mixture just until mixed.

Spray a 9-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and spread the batter evenly in the pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

file photo for reference