Christmas Bread This recipe makes two loaves. • 2 cups warm water • 2 packages of dry yeast • 1/4 cup sugar • 1 teaspoon salt • 2 eggs • 1/2 cup shortening (I have also used Canola oil) • 1 to 2 cups of citron (if you really like taste of citron, add 2 cups) • 6 to 7 cups of flour

My mother was daughter of Norwegian immigrants who homesteaded our small Wisconsin dairy farm in late 1800s. Julekake was one of goodies my mother baked for Christmas.

Julekake This recipe makes two large round loaves. • 2 cups milk • 1 cup sugar • 1/2 cup butter (or margarine) • 2 packages of yeast • 1/2 cup warm water • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon cardamom (substitute cinnamon or nutmeg if you prefer) • 7 cups flour • 1 cup of raisins • 1/2 cup of citron • 1/2 cup of red candied cherries • 1/2 cup of green candied cherries

In a medium saucepan, heat butter, milk, sugar and salt until margarine/butter has melted. Pour milk mixture into a large bowl and let it cool.