Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ginger
• 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 3/8 teaspoon clove
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 6 tablespoons softened butter
• 2/3 cup molasses
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups pumpkin
• 1/4 cup milk or 1/4 cup water
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/3 cup raisins or 1/3 cup chopped dates

Instructions

1. Whisk together the first 8 ingredients. Beat the butter for a minute or so, then gradually beat in the molasses, and beat till lightened. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the pumpkin.

2. Combine the milk and vanilla.

3. Alternate adding the flour mixture and the milk mixture to the pumpkin mixture. (If you're using white or wheat flour, don't overbeat). Fold in the nuts and raisins.

4. Bake in a greased 9"x5" pan at 350F for about an hour, until a pick comes out clean. Let cool a few minutes before unmolding.