Golden Raisin Buns
2 cups hot water, divided 1/2 cup golden raisins 1/2 cup butter 1 teaspoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup all purpose flour 4 eggs
Icing: 1 tablespoon butter 4 to 5 teaspoons half and half cream 1 cup confectioners' sugar 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
In a small bowl, pour 1 cup of water over raisins; let stand for 5 minutes. Drain; set raisins aside. In a large saucepan, bring butter, sugar, salt and remaining water to a boil. Add flour all at once; stir until a smooth ball forms. Remove from the heat; beat by hand for 2 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat until mixture is well blended, about 3 minutes. Stir in raisins. Drop by tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 375 °F for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack. For icing, melt the butter in a small saucepan; stir in cream. Remove from the heat; add sugar, lemon juice and vanilla extract. Spread on buns while still warm. Serve warm if desired.
Yield: 20 servings