Julekake

1 . Stage

Dissolve yeast in warm water.

2 . Stage

Pour cold milk into a wide, shallow, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until small bubbles appear around the outside of the saucepan.

3 . Stage

Remove from the heat and transfer to a large bowl. Stir in sugar, melted butter, and salt; let sit until lukewarm, 5 to 10 minutes.

4 . Stage

Add yeast mixture, then stir in 4 cups flour. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 2 hours.

5 . Stage

Punch down dough. Stir in raisins, cherries, citron, and cardamom. Work in remaining 4 1/2 cups flour until a soft dough forms. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, 2 to 3 hours.

6 . Stage

Knead dough slightly on a lightly floured surface. Divide into fourths and form into round loaves. Place loaves onto greased cookie sheets. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, 1 to 2 hours.

7 . Stage

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Brush loaves with egg white.

8 . Stage

Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, 30 to 40 minutes.