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1
To make the dough:
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In a bowl, combine milk, sugar, shortening and salt. Heat in microwave until warm (not hot) and shortening is almost melted.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cup flour with yeast. Add milk mixture and egg. Beat at low speed using electric mixer for 30 seconds, scraping bowl, then beat on high for 3 minutes. Stir in remaining flour by hand to make a soft dough.
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Turn out on a floured surface and knead until smooth. Place dough in a large, lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubles in size (1-2 hours). Punch down; turn out onto floured surface. Cover, let rest 10 minutes.
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5
To make the cinnamon rolls:
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On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough until 1/8 - 1/4 inch thick. Spread melted butter over dough. Sprinkle cinnamon-sugar on dough. Sprinkle with raisins if desired.
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For rolls, roll as for jelly roll, lengthwise. Cut in 1 1/4 inch slices. Place in greased 8x8 baking pan, wiht a bit of space (1/4 - 1/2 inch) between the rolls.
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For twists, fold dough in half lengthwise, slice and twist. Put on a greased baking sheet.
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Let rolls/twists rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes. Bake rolls in 375 degree oven for 20 minutes, or a bit less for twists. Remove from pan, lightly brush tops with butter, cover with cloth and allow to cool.
