Simple Cardamom Loaf

1. 1

   In a large bowl, whisk together warm milk, 1/2 cup sugar, warm water, and 2 tablespoons melted butter until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 minutes.

2. 2

   When the yeast is foamy, stir in flour, adding more as needed to make a stiff dough. Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes. Place it in an oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

3. 3

   In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup sugar with the cinnamon and cardamom; set aside.

4. 4

   Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a 9x13-inch rectangle and brush with 1/2 cup melted butter. Sprinkle with the cardamom-sugar mixture, raisins, and walnuts. Roll into a log, pinch the seams to seal, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

5. 5

   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

6. 6

   With a sharp knife, score the top of the roll with V-shaped cuts that do not quite meet in the center along the entire length; this creates a braided look but is optional.

7. 7

   Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon water in a small bowl until well blended; brush over the top of the bread. Sprinkle with almonds and pearl sugar.

8. 8

   Bake in the preheated oven until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom, 30 to 35 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

• Calories 345.54 kcal Moderate
• Protein 8.74 g Moderate
• Carbs 52.64 g Moderate
• Total Fat 11.36 g Moderate
• Saturated Fat 2.59 g Moderate
• Trans Fat 0.0 g Low Source
• Cholesterol 26.93 mg Moderate
• Sodium 25.2 mg Low Source
• Fiber 4.81 g Moderate
• Sugar 13.09 g High
• Added Sugar 0.34 g Low Source
• Calcium 81.74 mg Low Source
• Iron 3.21 mg Moderate
• Potassium 184.9 mg Low Source
• Vitamin A 41.36 mcg_rae Low Source
• Vitamin C 0.0 mg Low Source
• Vitamin D 0.54 mcg Low Source

Values are per serving. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

• Tree Nuts 🌰
• Eggs 🥚
• Milk 🥛
• Wheat 🌾
• Gluten