Nanny's Christmas Cake:

Since as long as I can remember, my Nanny made a "Christmas Cake" every year.  It was my mom's favorite cake.  When Nanny passed away, she took her recipe with her... NO ONE in the family knew the actual recipe.  Fortunately, we had several people who had ideas of what was in it, so this Christmas for my mom's birthday cake, I attempted Nanny's Christmas Cake.  Honestly, I think it turned out EXCELLENT! My younger son has already requested it for his birthday!   So, here's the recipe... you can make your own adjustments to it, but remember where you got the recipe! :)

Nanny's Christmas Cake:

1 choc cake mix (we used Swiss Choc)

1/2 cup walnuts (or pecans)*

1/2 cup raisins

Make cake according to directions and then add raisins and walnuts.  Bake in 9inch pans according to box.

* You could add more nuts if you like, but I would not recommend more raisins... I felt it would dry the cake out if you add more raisins.

Let cool and then ice.  Can decorate with nut halves on top.

Dark Chocolate Icing Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup solid vegetable shortening
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter or margarine, softened
• 1 cup cocoa 
• 1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract
• 4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar (approximately 1 lb.)
• 4-5 tablespoons milk

Stiff Consistency: In large bowl, cream shortening and butter with electric mixer. Add cocoa and vanilla. Gradually add sugar, one cup at a time, beating well on medium speed. Scrape sides and bottom of bowl often. When all sugar has been mixed in, icing will appear dry. Add milk and beat at medium speed until light and fluffy. Keep bowl covered with a damp cloth until ready to use. For best results, keep icing bowl in refrigerator when not in use. Refrigerated in an airtight container, this icing can be stored 2 weeks. Rewhip before using.

Makes about 3 Cups.

Optional:

Chocolate Mocha Icing: Substitute cold brewed strong coffee for milk in Chocolate Buttercream recipe.

For Thin (Spreading) Consistency Icing: Add 3-4 tablespoons light corn syrup, water or milk.

Enjoy!!