2 cups sugar

1-1/2 sticks margarine (3/4 cup)

1/2 teaspoon cloves

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon nutmeg

2 cups buttermilk

2 teaspoons soda

1/2 cup chopped dates or raisins

1/2 cup nuts, chopped

 

Mix first 6 ingredients until crumbly. (Use pastry blender).  Reserve 1/2 cup of this mixture.

 

Mix soda with buttermilk and add to flour mixture.  Stir in dates or raisins and nuts.  Pour into greased 13x9-inch pan or 2 round pans.  Sprinkle reserved 1/2 cup topping over cake.

 

Bake at 350 deg. for 40 to 45 minutes.

 

Serves 12 to 15.