Sweet Cinnamon Rolls

Directions

1. 1
   Combine flour and yeast.
2. 2
   Heat and stir milk, sugar, butter or margarine and salt until warm and butter almost melted.
3. 3
   Add to flour mixture plus eggs.
4. 4
   Beat with electric mixer on low for 30 seconds.
5. 5
   Scrape bowl and beat on high for 3 minutes.
6. 6
   Use a spoon and stir in 2 to 2 1/3 cups flour.
7. 7
   Knead dough on floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 3 to 5 minutes.
8. 8
   Shape into ball and place in slightly greased bowl.
9. 9
   Turn once, cover and let rise (about 1 hour).
10. 10
    Punch dough down.
11. 11
    Divide in half and let rest 10 minutes.
12. 12
    Roll 1/2 of dough into a 12 x 8-inch rectangle.
13. 13
    Melt 3 tablespoons butter.
14. 14
    Brush 1/2 of butter over dough.
15. 15
    Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon and 3/4 cup raisins (if desired). Sprinkle over dough.
16. 16
    Roll up from one of the long sides, seal seams, cut into 12 pieces.
17. 17
    Place in greased pan cover.
18. 18
    Let rise until nearly doubled (30 minutes).
19. 19
    Bake at 375° for 20 to 25 minutes.
20. 20
    Cool and cover with Powdered Sugar Icing.