Ingredients
2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast1/2 cup plus 1 teaspoon sugar, divided1/2 cup warm water (110° to 115°)3/4 cup warm milk (110° to 115°)1/2 cup butter, softened1 egg1 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom5 to 5-1/2 cups all-purpose flour1-1/2 cups chopped mixed candied fruit1/2 cup golden raisinsFROSTING:1 cup confectioners’ sugar2 tablespoons butter, melted1 tablespoon milkRed and green candied cherries
Preparation
In a bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar in water; let stand for 5 minutes. Add milk, butter, egg, salt, cardamom, 2-1/4 cups flour and remaining sugar. Beat until smooth. Stir in fruit, raisins and enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-1/2 hours.
Punch dough down; shape into two loaves; place in two greased 8x4-in. loaf pans. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes. Bake at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans and cool on wire racks.
For frosting, combine sugar, butter and milk until smooth; spread over loaves. Decorate with cherries.
