NORWEGIAN CARDAMOM BREAD BRAIDS

Norwegian Cardamom Bread Braids image

This treasured recipe reflects my Norwegian heritage. The subtle hint of cardamom is undeniably good. -Sally Nelson, Tempe, Arizona

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 55m

Yield 4 loaves (10 slices each)

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water (110° to 115°)
1-1/2 cups warm whole milk (110° to 115°)
1-1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon salt
9 to 10 cups all-purpose flour
Additional sugar

Steps:

In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add warm milk, sugar, butter, 2 eggs, cardamom, salt and 6 cups flour; beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough., Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-1/4 hours., Punch dough down; cover and let rest for 10 minutes. Divide into fourths. Divide each portion into thirds; shape each into a 12-in. rope. Place three ropes on a greased baking sheet and braid; pinch ends to seal and tuck under. Repeat with remaining dough. Cover and let rise in a warm place until nearly doubled, about 45 minutes., Preheat oven to 375°. Beat remaining egg; brush over loaves. Sprinkle with sugar. Bake until golden brown, 20-25 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 164 calories, Fat 3g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 23mg cholesterol, Sodium 63mg sodium, Carbohydrate 30g carbohydrate (8g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 4g protein.