Instructions: In a large mixer bowl combine 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, yeast, and cardamom. In a saucepan heat milk, sugar, butter, and salt just till warm

(115F) and the butter is almost melted; stir constantly. Add heated milk mixture to flour mixture; add 1 egg. Beat at low speed of electric mixer for 1/2 minute. Beat 3 minutes at high speed, scraping sides of bowl constantly. Stir in 1 chopped mixed candied fruits and peels (optional), raisins, and as much of the 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour as you can mix in with a spoon. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead in enough of the remaining all-purpose flour to make a moderately stiff dough that is smooth and elastic (6 to 8 minutes total). Shape dough into a ball. Place in a lightly greased bowl; turn once to grease surface. Cover, let rise in a warm place till double (about 1 1/2 hours). Punch dough down; divide dough in half. Cover; let rest 10 minutes. Shape into 2 round loaves; place on greased baking sheets. Flatten each slightly to a 6-inch diameter.

Cover; let rise till nearly double (45 to 60 minutes). Stir together 1 slightly beaten egg yolk and 2 tablespoons water, brush over loaves.

Bake in a 350F oven for 35 minutes or till done.

Cool on a wire rack.

Makes 2 round loaves.

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.