Step 1

Preparation

Step 2

Pour hot water over the raisins and let them sit to soften. Combine scalded milk, margarine, sugar, salt and cardamom. Cool to lukewarm if milk is still hot from scalding. Soften the yeast in the 1/4 cup lukewarm water, and add to milk mixture. Add eggs and mix well. Add 4 cups flour and beat well. Let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, until bubbly.

Step 3

Add mixed fruit, raisins and the rest of the flour and knead on a lightly floured work surface. Brush the top of the dough with melted butter and let rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk. Divide into 3 parts, and make 3 round loaves or put into three bread pans. Let rise again until doubled. Bake 45 minutes to 1 hour at 350 degrees. Brush tops with melted butter while hot.

Step 4

To store, wrap in foil and store at room temperature. Will keep for one week.