1 c. milk
1 stick butter
1 pkg. dry yeast dissolved in 1/4 c. lukewarm water with 1 tsp. sugar added
2 eggs
1/4 c. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. ground fresh cardamom seed

Heat milk and butter until butter is melted, then cool to lukewarm. In large bowl beat eggs. Add sugar, salt and cardamom to the preceding, add milk and butter mixture and the dissolved yeast. Stir in 4 cups flour and mix thoroughly. Knead for 2 minutes, adding flour if necessary. Set aside, covered to rise until double in bulk.

Form into 2 braided loaves. Cover again and let rise for about 1/2 hour. Brush braids with egg yolk or milk; decorate with sugar. Bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes.