Cinnamon & Raisin Bread

Step 1: In a large bowl dissolve yeast in the warm water and then add the sugar, salt and 3 cups of flour - beat well.

Step 2: Stir in the cream, molasses and spices and enough of the remaining flour to make a stiff dough -- need to use a wooden spoon. Let it rest 15-20 minutes and then turn out onto a floured board. Knead for 8-10 minutes or until smooth, adding more flour as necessary. Place in a large greased bowl and turn to grease top of dough, cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place (unheated microwave oven) until doubled (45 minutes).

Step 3: Turn dough out onto a floured board and roll out into a rectangle about 12 x 18 inches. Sprinkle with raisins and cinnamon sugar and roll up, jelly-roll fashion. Cut the roll into two even pieces and place each in a well-greased loaf pan, cover and let rise again until almost doubled (45 minutes).

Step 4: Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Step 5: Before baking brush the loaves with a mixture of molasses and water.

Step 6: Bake for 45-55 minutes.