Gingerbread Cake

1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped pitted dates
1 3/4 cups water
2 - 4 Tbs honey
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp ground ginger
3/4 tsp grated nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves
2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
About 1/4 cup chopped crystallized ginger (optional)

Combine dried fruits, water, honey, and spices in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Continue boiling for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and cool completely. Preheat oven to 350˚F. When fruit mixture is cool, mix in dry ingredients, and crystalized ginger if desired. Spread into a nonstick or lightly oil-sprayed 9-inch square pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Can be served with hot applesauce.