1 c. butter, softened
1 c. sugar
1 c. molasses
2 eggs
4 3/4 c. flour
1 tbsp. baking powder
2 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. ground cloves
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 c. milk
1 1/2 c. raisins
Icing (recipe follows)

In mixing bowl cream butter and sugar. Beat in molasses and eggs. Sift together flour, baking powder, spices and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with milk. Stir in raisins.

Drop large, round spoonfuls of dough 2-3 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Bake in 350 degree oven 15-18 minutes, until just springy to the touch. Remove from pans to cooling racks. Brush with icing while warm. Makes 2 1/2 - 3 dozen.

Sift 2 cups powdered sugar; combine with 3 tablespoons milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Mix to blend smooth.