Activate the yeast

In a small bowl, dissolve sugar in warm milk and sprinkle yeast over. Let stand until foamy, about 10 minutes.

Mix and knead the dough

In a large bowl, mix flour, cardamom, and salt. Add the milk mixture, butter, and egg. Knead until smooth and elastic.

First rise

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until doubled, approximately 1 hour.

Make cinnamon sugar butter

Mix softened butter with the cinnamon sugar until smooth.

Fill and shape the dough

Roll out dough into a rectangle on a floured surface, spread the filling, and sprinkle with raisins.

Braid the kringel

Roll the dough into a log, cut it lengthwise, and twist into a braid, forming a circle.

Be gentle when rolling the dough to avoid tearing. Pro Tip: Use a sharp knife when slicing the log to keep the layers clean and visible.