Iceland’s Most Delicious Holiday – Cream Bun Day (Bolludagur)

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: SnickersSwedish SemlaBiscoff CheesecakeClassicMatchaRaspberry 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: ClassicVanilla NougatYuzu LemonVeganCaramel 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 EightHressobolla (rumored “cream bun of the year” for 2026)ClassicCroissant-styleIrishStrawberryCaramelCoconutNóa Kropp (Icelandic candy)OreoPúnd (rum cream with sifted icing sugar)Snickers & BananaTwixValentine’s EditionVegan 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: StrawberryBanana cream & hazelnut butterChocolate & licoriceClassic with chocolate sauceClassic with caramelVegan with chocolateVegan 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 jamRaspberry jamVanilla almondNutellaPistachio 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!” Share this with a Friend Pinterest Facebook Email Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook