Scald the milk in a saucepan.

Stir in sugar, butter, salt, and cardamom.

Cool the mixture to lukewarm.

In a large warm bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water.

Stir in the milk mixture, egg, and half the flour.

Beat well to combine.

Stir in the candied fruit and raisins.

Add enough of the remaining flour to make a stiff dough.

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface.

Cover the dough with a bowl and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.

Knead until smooth and elastic.

Place in a greased bowl, turning to coat.

Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-1.5 hours.

Punch down the dough.

Shape into a loaf.

Place in a greased loaf pan.

Let rise again until nearly doubled, about 30-45 minutes.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown.

Let cool slightly before slicing and decorating with warm honey and candied fruit or confectioners sugar glaze, candied red cherries or citron.