FINNISH CHRISTMAS BREAD

Finnish Christmas Bread image

Provided by Peachy326

Time 3h20m

Yield 3 coffeecakes, 18 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 9

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2 (1/4 ounce) packages active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water (105 -115 degreesF.)
1 1/2 cups milk, lukewarm
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
4 eggs, beaten
8 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup melted butter

Steps:

Sprinkle yeast on the warm water, let stand for a few minutes; stir to blend.
Stir in milk, sugar, salt, cardmon, eggs, and 2 cups of the flour; beat until smooth.
Add 3 more cups of flour; beat until smooth.
Stir in melted butter.
Add enough of the remaining flour to make a soft dough which can be handled.
Cover and let rest 15 minutes.
Turn out on a floured board;knead until smooth and elastic.
Place in greased bowl; turn greased side up. Cover with a damp towel.
Let rise in a warm place until double in bulk - about 1 hour.
Punch down.
Cover and let rise again until almost doubled - about 1/2 hour.
Turn out onto floured board and punch down again.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Divide into 3 equal parts to make 3 coffee cakes. Place coffee cakes on greased and floured cookie sheet to rise. IMPORTANT! after shaping breads, let rise about 20 minutes UNTIL PUFFY, NOT DOUBLED!
Bake at 375 degrees F. for 20 to 25 minutes or until lightly browned.