Lassy Bread

1 . Stage

Place raisins into a heatproof bowl and pour in enough boiling water to cover. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, or a plate to seal; allow to stand overnight.

2 . Stage

Dissolve sugar in the lukewarm water in a small bowl. Sprinkle yeast over the water and allow to soften and bubble, about 10 to 15 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the milk, butter, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat until the butter melts. Remove from the heat and allow to cool until lukewarm (105 to 110 degrees F).

3 . Stage

Once the milk has cooled, drain the raisins, and add them to the milk. Stir in the yeast mixture and molasses. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cinnamon, mace, and clove. Stir half of the flour into the milk mixture with a wooden spoon and beat for 2 to 3 minutes. Add remaining flour and stir until a moist dough is formed.

4 . Stage

Place dough on a flat surface and knead until dough becomes smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes, adding more flour as necessary to keep dough from sticking. Place into a large, oiled bowl; cover, and allow to rise in a warm, draft-free area until doubled in bulk, 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

5 . Stage

Lightly oil or grease two loaf pans and set aside. Divide dough in half and shape into 2 loaves, place into prepared pans, cover, and allow to rise until doubled in bulk, 1 to 2 hours.

6 . Stage

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

7 . Stage

Bake loaves in preheated oven 1 hour, or until they are nicely browned and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.