Jule Kake Norwegian Christmas Bread

Step 1

Fit a stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Combine the flour, sugar, cardamom and salt in the mixer bowl. Combine the milk, butter, yeast and 2 eggs in another bowl, then incorporate into the dry ingredients with the mixer at low speed, 2 minutes. Increase the speed to medium and beat until the dough is sticky but will not stick to your hand, about 12 minutes.

Step 2

Add raisins and citron on slow speed to incorporate, about 1 minute (do not overmix).

Step 3

Let the dough relax in the mixing bowl, covered, for 10 minutes.

Step 4

Mix to knock down, then remove to a flour-dusted table.

Step 5

Divide into four pieces and let rest, covered, 1 1/2 hours.

Step 6

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Step 7

Form dough into desired shapes, such as round loaves. Beat remaining egg and paint dough with egg wash. Transfer dough to a pan. Let rise again, covered, until doubled, 1 to 2 hours. Paint again with egg wash. Bake until the loaves are deeply brown and sound hollow when tapped, 25 to 30 minutes. Let fully cool.