Island Rum Cake (Bolo di Rom — Cura ao)

This cake travels well, so it is a perfect choice for picnics.

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup yellow cornmeal
1/3 cup shortening
1/3 cup dark rum
1/3 cup water
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon grated orange peel
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg
Confectioners' sugar

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour 9-inch square pan.

Beat all ingredients except confectioners' sugar in large mixer bowl on low speed, scraping bowl frequently, 30 seconds. Beat on medium speed 2 minutes, scraping bowl frequently. Pour into pan; spread evenly. Bake until crust is light golden brown and wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean, 30 to 35 minutes. Cool; sprinkle with confectioners' sugar.

Yields 9 servings