2 pkgs. dry yeast
1/2 c. warm water
1 1/2 c. lukewarm milk
1 c. sugar
1 tsp. salt
2 1/2 tsp. ground cardamon
4 eggs
7-8 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 c. melted butter

Sprinkle yeast on warm water. Let stand a few minutes. Stir to blend. Stir in milk, sugar, salt, cardamon, eggs and 2 cups flour. Beat until smooth. Add 3 more cups flour and beat until smooth. Stir in melted butter. Add enough of remaining flour to make a soft dough which can be handled. Cover. Let rise for 15 minutes. Turn out on floured board. Knead until smooth and elastic. Place in greased bowl. Cover.

Let rise in a warm place until double in bulk about one hour or more. Punch down. Cover. Let rise again until almost dough, about 30-45 minutes. Turn out onto floured board. Divide into 2 or 3 portions. Make braids. Let rise about 30-45 minutes. Brush lightly with a slightly beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar. Bake at 375 degrees about 25-30 minutes. Makes 2 long or 3 short braids.