Kris Duke’s Pumpkin Bread

2/3 cup shortening
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 3/3 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon salt
3 eggs
1 teaspoon cloves
1 lb. can pumpkin
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2/3 cup water
1 teaspoon nutmeg
3 1/3 cup flour
2/3 cup chopped dates
2/3 cup chopped nuts

Sift flour, baking powder, soda, salt and spices. Cream shortening and sugar, add eggs, then pumpkin and water. Gradually add sifted mixture. Stir in nuts and dates. Bake in two greased loaf pans at 350°F for one hour.

- Recipe courtesy of Fredrica Duke