Tropical Treat Cake

I found this recipe in the Robin Hood Baking Festival cookbook although I did change it up a bit. It is a moist and flavourful cake much the same texture as a carrot cake, that is great for lunches. It really doesn't need a frosting but you could dress it up for company with a cream cheese icing.

1 large orange

1 medium banana

1 cup sultana raisins washed

1 3/4 cups flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp ground star anise (opt.)

1/4 tsp. salt

1/2 cup shortening or margarine

1 cup granulated sugar

2 eggs

1/2 cup buttermilk or soured milk

1 tsp. vanilla

Cut unpeeled orange into pieces, removing seeds. Combine orange, banana and raisins in food processor and chop fairly fine.

Combine flour, baking soda, spices and salt. Set aside.

In a large bowl, cream together shortening, sugar and eggs on high speed until light and creamy.

Add fruit mixture.

Add dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk and vanilla, mixing lightly after each addition.

Spread batter evenly in a greased 9 inch square pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 50-55 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

This cake freezes very well.