Irish Raisin Cake

• raisins (or a mix of raisins, currants or sultanas)1 1⁄2 cups
• sugar↗2 cups
• water↗2 cups
• butter↗3 tablespoons
• baking soda↗1 1⁄2 teaspoons
• hot water2 tablespoons
• flour↗3 1⁄2 cups
• salt↗1⁄2 teaspoon
• cinnamon↗1 1⁄2 teaspoons
• clove (ground)1⁄2 teaspoon
• vanilla extract↗1 tablespoon
• egg, beaten (see NOTE)↗1

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Combine the raisins, sugar and 2 cups water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and boil for 10 minutes.

2. 2

   Add the butter and stir until it melts.

3. 3

   Remove from the heat and let cool.

4. 4

   Dissolve the baking soda in 2 tablespoons of hot water in a small bowl. Add to the raisin mixture.

5. 5

   Sift the flour, salt, cinnamon and cloves into a large bowl.

6. 6

   Add the beaten egg, if using (see NOTE).

7. 7

   Add the raisin mixture and vanilla and stir to mix well.

8. 8

   Pour into 1 large or 2 small well-greased loaf pans.

9. 9

   Bake at 350 degrees F for 60 to 75 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.

10. 10

    Remove to a wire rack to cool.

11. 11

    Remove cake(s) from loaf pan after 5 minutes to cool completely.