1 c. sugar
1 tsp. salt
2 c. lukewarm milk
2 eggs
1/2 c. melted butter
2 dry yeast dissolved in 1/4 cup warm water
8 crushed cardamom seeds
Approx. 6 c. flour (up to 8 c.)

Beat eggs, sugar, salt add to warmed milk. Add melted butter, dissolved yeast, cardamom and 1 cup flour. Beat with a wire whisk until frothy. Let stand 5 minutes. Add flour, a little at a time, beating with a strong wooden spoon until stiff.

Then knead the rest of the flour in until dough is no longer sticky. Cover and let rise in a warm place until double. Punch down. Divide into 6 parts. Roll into 18 inch ropes. Make 2 braids. Let rise 1/2 to 1 hour. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes.

Brush loaves with a glaze of 1 teaspoon instant coffee, 1 tablespoon sugar and 1/4 cup hot water. Or, frost it and sprinkle with nuts, crushed peppermints, etc.