Finnish Pulla Bread

Instructions

1. Prepare the yeast mixture
   In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Let stand for about 5 minutes until frothy. Stir in the sugar, cardamom, salt, and eggs.
2. Make the dough
   Gradually add 4 cups of flour, mixing until the dough comes together. Add the softened butter and continue to add remaining flour until you have a soft, slightly sticky dough that pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First rise
   Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the bread
   Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 16-inch rope. Place the ropes side by side on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Braid the ropes together, tucking the ends under. Alternatively, you can divide the dough into 2 portions and make 2 smaller braided loaves.
5. Second rise
   Cover the braided dough with a kitchen towel and let rise for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, until nearly doubled in size.
6. Prepare for baking
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf with beaten egg and sprinkle with pearl sugar and sliced almonds if using.
7. Bake the bread
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the bread browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil.
8. Cool and serve
   Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Serve with butter or alongside coffee for a traditional Finnish treat.