Step 1

Preheat oven to 325º degrees F.  Line a 9 x 9-inch baking pan with foil, leaving an overhang.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan over medium high heat, combine water, raisins, brown sugar, vegetable oil and the spices. Bring to a boil and, stirring constantly, boil for 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool 10 minutes.

Step 3

Meanwhile mix the baking soda and salt in water and stir until completely dissolved. Combine flour and baking powder and toss with a fork to combine.

Step 4

After raisin mixture has cooled, add soda and salt mixture – it will bubble up, so stir well.  Add the flour mixture and stir until a stiff dough has formed and raisins are well distributed. Spoon into prepared pan, smooth the top and bake 55 minutes.

Step 5

Remove cake from oven to a cooling rack and let cool 5 minutes, then use overhanging foil to remove cake from the pan and allow to cool completely.

Step 6

Serve slightly warm as dessert or with morning coffee. Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving if desired.