Step 1

Cream butter in a large mixing bowl; gradually add sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 2

Dissolve soda in buttermilk. Combine flour, cocoa, and spices; add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Add jam and vanilla, mixing well. Fold in raisins and pecans.

Step 3

Pour batter into 3 waxed paper-lined, greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.

Step 4

Cool in pans 10 minutes. Remove layers from pans to wire racks, and cool completely. Spread frosting between layers and on top and sides of cake.