Swedish Coffee Bread

This recipe can be double or even tripled if desired.

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3/4c flour, 1 pkg active dry yeast, and 1 tbs ground cardamom. Heat 3/4c milk, 1/3c sugar, 1/4c butter, and 1/2 tsp  salt until just warm stirring constantly. Add to flour mixture, add 1 egg. Beat at low speed for 30 sec. Beat 3 min on high. Stir in as much of 1 3/4 to 2 1/4c flour as you can mix in with a spoon. On a lightly floured surface knead in enough remaining flour to make a moderately soft dough that is smooth and elastic (3-5 min total) Shape into a ball. Place in a greased bowl, turning once. Cover, let rise until double (about 1 1/4 hrs)

Punch down, divide into thirds, cover, and let rest 10 min. Roll each ball into a 16in. rope. Braid. Cover, let rise until nearly double (about 40 min). Bake at 375 about 20 min or until bottom is dry and golden brown.

This recipe can be double or even tripled if desired.

Courtesy of James and Robin Strathdee