Yule Bread

2 packages dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water
1 pint milk
1 cup shortening
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 eggs, well beaten
2 tablespoons ground cardamom
7 cups sifted flour
2 cup floured candied fruit

Dissolve yeast in water. Scald milk to lukewarm. Cream together shortening, sugar and salt. Add cardamom and eggs. Add lukewarm milk to softened yeast. Blend 3 cups flour and beat until smooth. Add creamed mixture and remaining flour. Mix until smooth and add more flour, if necessary (about 1 cup) to make a dough that can be handled. Add floured fruit. Knead well. Let rise until doubled in bulk.

Turn dough onto floured board. Knead and shape into loaves. Let rise until almost doubled.

Bake at 375 degrees F for 1 hour.

Makes three loaves.