👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, 1 tablespoon of the sugar, and the active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

   💡 Tip: Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast
2. 2

   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and ground cardamom.

   💡 Tip: Sifting the flour can result in a lighter bread
3. 3

   Add the softened butter and egg yolks to the flour mixture. Pour in the activated yeast mixture.

   💡 Tip: Ensure butter is at room temperature for easy incorporation
4. 4

   Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

   💡 Tip: Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky, but avoid adding too much
5. 5

   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

   💡 Tip: A slightly warm oven (turned off) is a good place for rising
6. 6

   Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf or desired shape. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

   💡 Tip: You can also divide the dough into smaller rolls
7. 7

   Cover the shaped dough and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

8. 8

   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the top of the bread with the egg wash and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds.

9. 9

   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

   💡 Tip: If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil
10. 10

    Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

    💡 Tip: Best served warm