2 pkgs. active dry yeast
1/2 c. lukewarm water
3 c. scalded milk
1/2 c. (1 stick) butter
3/4 c. sugar
10 c. all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 c. raisins
1 lb. mixed fruit (candied)
1-2 tsp. cardamom, crushed
2 tsp. salt
olive oil spray

Dissolve yeast in the water. Pour scalded milk over the butter. Cool.

Add the yeast, sugar, salt and half of the flour (approximately 5 cups) to the milk/butter mixture.

Beat for 10 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the raisins, fruit, cardamom and the flour - adding only what is needed to make a soft dough.

Knead and place in greased bowl to rise.

Dough should feel cool to touch. Cover and let rise in a warm place, free from draft, until double in size.

Knead. Cover and let rise again until light.

Shape into 4 round loaves and place on greased cookie sheets. Spray crust lightly with olive oil spray.

Let rise until light.

Bake in a preheated 350°F for 30-35 minutes or until loaves sound hollow when tapped on bottom and are light in weight when picked up.

Submitted by: CM