Lacy Pear Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350.
2. 2
   Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans; set aside.
3. 3
   Mix flour, brown sugar, shortening, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, baking powder, baking soda and nutmeg in large bowl with electric mixer.
4. 4
   Beat 3 minutes at medium speed, scraping bowl occasionally.
5. 5
   Stir in pears and almonds.
6. 6
   Pour into prepared pans.
7. 7
   Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until wooden toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
8. 8
   Cool in pan 10 minutes; turn out onto wire rack and cool completely.
9. 9
   Place lacy paper doily on each cake layer.
10. 10
    Dust with powdered sugar; carefully remove doily.
11. 11
    Serve cake with whipped cream, if desired.