Julekage

Experience the delightful flavors of Scandinavian Christmas baking with Julekage, a light and moist bread dotted with candied fruit and covered in a luscious frosting. This beloved recipe, treasured by Carol Mead from Los Alamos, New Mexico, brings back cherished memories of Christmas in California. The distinct taste of cardamom infuses the bread with a wonderful aroma and flavor, making it a truly special treat during the holiday season. Whether you make it for your loved ones or as a thoughtful gift, Julekage is sure to spread joy and festive cheer.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 packages (¼ ounce each) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon plus ½ cup sugar, divided
• ½ cup warm water (110° to 115°)
• ¾ cup warm milk (110° to 115°)
• ½ cup butter, softened
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
• 5 to 5½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups chopped mixed candied fruit
• ½ cup golden raisins

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar in water; let it stand for 5 minutes. Add milk, softened butter, egg, salt, cardamom, 2¼ cups of flour, and the remaining sugar. Beat the mixture until smooth. Stir in the candied fruit, raisins, and enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
2. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it until smooth and elastic, approximately 6-8 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to grease the top. Cover and let it rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1½ hours.
3. After the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into two loaves. Place the loaves in two greased 8×4-inch loaf pans. Cover and let them rise until doubled, about 45 minutes. Bake the loaves at 350°F for 35-40 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Remove the loaves from the pans and cool them on wire racks.

YIELD:

• Makes 2 loaves

COOKING TIME:

• 25 minutes (Prep) + Rising + 35-40 minutes (Bake)

FROSTING:

1. Combine confectioners’ sugar, melted butter, and milk until smooth.
2. Spread the frosting over the cooled loaves.
3. Decorate with red and green candied cherries.

In conclusion, Julekage, the Scandinavian Christmas bread, brings the heartwarming flavors of cardamom-spiced baking to your holiday festivities. This cherished recipe, fondly remembered by Carol Mead from Los Alamos, New Mexico, is a delightful bread filled with candied fruit and golden raisins and topped with a luscious frosting. The aroma of cardamom infuses each bite, making Julekage a special treat to be shared with family and friends during the festive season.

The process of preparing this delightful bread involves creating a soft and elastic dough infused with the unique taste of cardamom. As it rises, the candied fruit and raisins add bursts of sweetness and color, making the loaves a beautiful addition to your holiday table.

Once baked to perfection, the loaves are adorned with a smooth frosting, adding an extra layer of sweetness and festive charm. The cherries on top complete the presentation, making the Julekage an eye-catching centerpiece for any holiday gathering.

Whether you choose to enjoy Julekage with loved ones or present it as a thoughtful gift, its distinctive flavors and heartwarming history will surely leave a lasting impression. Sharing this delicious bread is a wonderful way to embrace Scandinavian Christmas traditions and create new memories with your loved ones.

In conclusion, Julekage is a delightful and festive Christmas bread that captures the spirit of Scandinavian baking. So, gather your ingredients, infuse your home with the aroma of cardamom, and create these flavorful loaves that will bring joy and warmth to your holiday celebrations.