In a mixing bowl, combine flour, the 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, salt, and spices. Using pastry blender, cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in raisins. Add the 1/2 cup half-and-half, stirring until mixture is moistened.
Turn onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead 8 strokes or just until dough holds together. Pat or roll to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut with 2-1/2- to 3-inch cutter.
Place 1 inch apart on an ungreased baking sheet. Brush tops with 1 tablespoon half-and-half and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake in a 350 degree F oven 12 to 15 minutes or until bottoms are golden.
Remove from baking sheet and cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes. Serve warm.