Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease an 8" square or 9" round pan that's at least 2" deep.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and spices.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the vanilla, oil, pumpkin purée, and water or almond milk.

Stir the wet ingredients into the dry until evenly moistened. Mix in the raisins (or walnuts or cranberries). Transfer the batter to the prepared pan. Learn more Blog A family of cake recipes By Kye Ameden

Bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.

Remove the cake from the oven and serve it warm from the pan, garnished with confectioners' sugar if desired.