Apricot Cardamom Bread

Name: Apricot Cardamom Bread
Ingredients: For the bread; 1 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cardamom; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter; 12 ounces evaporated milk; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1/2 ounce (2 packages or 4 1/2 teaspoons) instant or active dry yeast; 1/4 cup warm water; 6 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided, plus more as needed; 1/2 cup sour cream; 3 eggs; For the filling & egg wash; 2 1/2 cups water; 1/4 cup brandy; 6 ounces dried apricots, finely chopped; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons milk; 2 tablespoons Swedish pearl sugar, for sprinkling (optional)