1 pkg. active dry yeast or 1 cake compressed yeast
1/4 c. water
1 c. milk
2 tbsp. sugar
2 tbsp. shortening
1 tsp. salt
4 c. sifted all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1/4 c. melted butter
1/2 c. sugar
2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 c. raisins

ICING (optional) :

1 c. confectioners sugar
2 tbsp. butter
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tbsp. milk

Soften yeast in warm water. Combine milk, sugar, shortening and salt, then melt. Cool to lukewarm. Add 1 cup flour; beat well. Beat in softened yeast and egg. Gradually add remaining flour. Cover and let rise in warm place until double (1 1/2 to 2 hours).

Combine 1/4 cup butter, 2 cups sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon and 1/4 cup raisins into dough. roll dough 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick on lightly floured surface. Roll lengthwise as for jelly roll. Seal edge; cut into 1-inch slices. Place on greased 9x9x2-inch pans; cover and let rise (30-40 minutes). Bake at 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Frost with confectioners icing.