Sift and set aside:

• 2 cups sifted flour
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp allspice
• 1/2 tsp ginger
• 1/4 tsp cloves

• 2/3 cup butter (10-2/3 tbsp)
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp vinegar
• 1-1/2 cups raisins (plumped)

Cream butter, add sugar gradually.  Beat in molasses and egg. Stir in water and vinegar.  Blend in dry ingredients and raisins.  Spread into a well-greased 10x15x1 (jelly roll) pan.  Bake at 350° for 19-20 minutes.  Cool slightly and spread with frosting.  Cut into bars.

Yield: approx 3 dozen

Frosting:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp whole milk
• 1/8 tsp orange extract

*To plump raisins: Pour boiling water over raisins and let set for 5 minutes, then drain.