Heat. cool and Set aside:

1 cup milk + 2T. milk with 4 1/2 oz. butter

Meanwhile, with mixer paddle, beat together:

2 eggs
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup + 1 T. water
3/4-1 T. cardamom
scant 2 tsp. salt

Gradually add the cooled milk and butter.
Sprinkle 1 T. + 1tsp. instant yeast  over it.

Switch to dough hook, or knead in by hand, 4-6 cups bread flour. Knead in mixer 5-6 minutes.

Divide dough into two loaves. Cover and let rest for 1/2 hour before shaping into braids or placing in bread pans.

Braids can then be frozen for future baking, or,

Let rise and brush with egg glaze and sprinkle with sugar.

Bake at 350 for 25 minutes on greased sheet or in bread pan..