MOM'S CHRISTMAS ROLLS

1 pkg. Rapid Rise yeast
1 c. lukewarm water
3/4 c. milk
1/4 c. sugar
3 Tbsp. butter
1 tsp. salt
1 egg, beaten
4 c. flour, divided

Dissolve yeast in water. Scald milk. Add to yeast. Add sugar, salt and butter. Add egg and 1/2 of the flour. Mix together. Add remaining flour, more or less as needed until mixture no longer sticks to bowl. Knead on floured surface (about 10 minutes). Place in greased bowl; cover and let rise until double. Punch down and roll out on floured surface to 1/2-inch thick. Spread with 1/3 cup melted butter. Sprinkle with 1 cup
light brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Add raisins and/or nuts (both optional). Roll up into a log and cut into approximately 1-inch slices. Place cut side down in 2 (9-inch) square pans which have been spread with 3 tablespoons melted butter and 3/4 cup brown sugar. Add nuts and/or raisins to the mixture in the pans, if desired. Let rolls rise, covered, until double. Bake 30 to 35 minutes at 400 degrees. Loosen and turn out of pans immediately.