If there were ever a holiday that felt personally designed for me, it’s Bolludagur, Iceland’s cream bun day and, in my opinion, Iceland’s most delicious holiday.
Bolludagur takes place every year on the Monday before Lent. And on this day, Iceland collectively agrees to eat an unreasonable amount of cream bun without guilt, without shame, and usually without stopping at just one.
What Is a Bolla, Exactly?
A bolla is an Icelandic cream bun. Traditionally, it’s made from a light choux-style pastry that’s sliced open, filled generously with whipped cream and sometimes jam, and then topped with chocolate glaze or icing.
That’s the classic version, but modern Bolludagur has evolved far beyond that. These days, bakeries get wildly creative with flavors, fillings, and toppings, which is exactly why this day has become such a big deal.
Why Bolludagur Is a Thing in Iceland?
Bolludagur is part of Iceland’s version of Carnival, leading into Lent. Historically, it was about indulging before a period of restraint, but in true Icelandic fashion, it turned into a full-blown pastry event.
How Much Do Cream Buns Cost in Iceland?
Before we get into the bakeries, let’s talk price.
As of 2026, most Icelandic cream buns fall somewhere between:
575 ISK ($4.70) – 925 ISK ($7.56) per bun
Prices vary depending on the bakery, the size, and how elaborate the bun is. This is just an estimate based on current offerings — prices may be higher or lower in the future, so always check directly with the bakery.
5 Places Worth Visiting for Cream Buns in Reykjavík
1. Plantan Kaffihús and Bistro
Plantan is a plant-based favorite in Reykjavík, and for Bolludagur they’re going all in with six different cream buns this year:
- Snickers
- Swedish Semla
- Biscoff Cheesecake
- Classic
- Matcha
- Raspberry
If you’re vegan, plant-based, lactose intolerant, or just curious, Plantan is absolutely worth a stop.
2. Brauð & Co.
One of Reykjavík’s most recognizable bakeries, Brauð & Co. is offering five varieties:
- Classic
- Vanilla Nougat
- Yuzu Lemon
- Vegan
- Caramel
If you want something that feels both traditional and playful, this is a great place to check out
3. Passion Reykjavík
Passion Reykjavík wins for sheer variety. They’re offering 15 different cream buns, which is honestly impressive.
Some of their flavors include:
- After Eight
- Hressobolla (rumored “cream bun of the year” for 2026)
- Classic
- Croissant-style
- Irish
- Strawberry
- Caramel
- Coconut
- Nóa Kropp (Icelandic candy)
- Oreo
- Púnd (rum cream with sifted icing sugar)
- Snickers & Banana
- Twix
- Valentine’s Edition
- Vegan version
If you want options — a lot of options — this is the place.
4. IKEA
Yes. IKEA.
IKEA in Iceland fully participates in Bolludagur and offers seven cream buns:
- Strawberry
- Banana cream & hazelnut butter
- Chocolate & licorice
- Classic with chocolate sauce
- Classic with caramel
- Vegan with chocolate
- Vegan with caramel
These are also typically the most affordable cream buns you’ll find.
5. Deig
Deig keeps things refined but flavorful with five varieties:
- Rosehip jam
- Raspberry jam
- Vanilla almond
- Nutella
- Pistachio
If you like pastries that feel a little more elegant, Deig is a solid choice.
Random Fact of the Episode
Every year for Bolludagur, over one million cream buns are made and sold across Iceland — making it one of the most pastry-intensive days of the entire year.
Icelandic Word of the Episode
Bolluvöndur – A decorated stick children use on Bolludagur to playfully “demand” cream buns by tapping their parents and chanting “Bolla! Bolla! Bolla!”
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