1 1/2 tsp. salt
  1/2 c. evaporated milk
  1/2 c. sugar
  1/4 c. butter
  1/2 c. warm water
  2 pkgs. yeast
  2 eggs, beaten
  5 c. sifted flour
  1 1/2 tsp. cardamom
  1/2 c. raisins (if desired)
     Scald milk.  Stir in sugar, salt and butter.  Cool to LUKEWARM.
  In separate cup dissolve yeast in warm water.  Add to mixture.  Add
  beaten eggs, 3 cups flour and cardamom  (Raisins if desired).  Beat
  until smooth.  Stir in additional 2 cups flour.  Knead until smooth
  and elastic. Place in greased bowl - brush with butter, cover and
  let rise until double in bulk (about 1 hour).  Punch down, turn out
  onto floured surface and divide into 6 parts. Roll each part into 10
  inch strands.  Braid 3 strands loosely.  Make 2 braids.  Place on
  greased baking sheet.  Let rise until doubled (about 1 hour). Before
  baking brush with egg white, water and 2 tablespoons sugar. Bake at
  350 degrees for 35-40 minutes.

Plain Text Version of This Recipe for Printing or Saving