In a large bowl, combine with half of the sugar and flour and mix for 2 minutes. Cover and let rise until double in size.

Add all the remaining ingredients (except the raisins) and knead on a floured work surface until dough is smooth and elastic, adding enough flour only to make a soft dough; dough may be slightly sticky. Knead in the raisins.

Grease and dust with flour a baba pan, shaking out excess flour.

Place dough in pan and cover with a clean, damp, lint-less cloth. Allow to rise in a very warm, draft-free place until doubled in size.

Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes. When cool, remove from pan and drizzle with icing.