Beat shortening and sugars together until creamy. Blend in eggs. Sift together flour, soda, salt and spices. Add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk. Stir in fruits, walnuts, and oats. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto lightly greased cooky sheets. Bake in moderate oven (350 F.) 12 to 15 minutes.

Reprinted with permission from The Quaker Oats Company Electronic format courtesy of Karen Mintzias