Bohuslän Bread Buns

Here is a complete step-by-step recipe for making traditional Bohuslän bread buns (Swedish: Bohuslänska frallor). These soft, rustic-style bread buns are inspired by coastal Swedish baking, often made with a mix of white and whole grain flours for a hearty flavor and texture.

Bohuslän Bread Buns (Bohuslänska Frallor)

Ingredients (Makes 12–14 buns)

• 500 grams (about 4 cups) all-purpose flour

• 200 grams (about 1½ cups) whole wheat flour or rye flour

• 50 grams (about ¼ cup) rolled oats

• 25 grams fresh yeast or 1 packet (7 grams) dry yeast

• 1 tablespoon honey or syrup

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 500 milliliters (2 cups) lukewarm water (about 37°C or 98°F)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter

• Optional: extra oats or seeds for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the yeast

If using fresh yeast:

1. Crumble the yeast into a large bowl.

2. Add the lukewarm water and stir to dissolve.

3. Add the honey and let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes.

If using dry yeast:

1. Mix the dry yeast with a few tablespoons of the flour.

2. Add it to the lukewarm water with the honey and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Mix the dough

1. Add the salt, rolled oats, and whole wheat flour to the yeast mixture.

2. Stir in the oil or melted butter.

3. Gradually add the all-purpose flour while mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the dough

1. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes (or use a stand mixer with dough hook for 5 to 7 minutes).

2. The dough should be elastic and slightly tacky, but not sticky.

3. Add a little extra flour if necessary.

Step 4: First rise

1. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl.

2. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap.

3. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the buns

1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.

2. Divide it into 12 to 14 equal pieces.

3. Shape each piece into a round bun.

4. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Leave some space between each bun.

Step 6: Second rise

1. Cover the buns with a towel or plastic wrap.

2. Let rise for another 30 to 45 minutes, until puffy.

Step 7: Preheat the oven

1. While the buns are rising, preheat your oven to 225°C (435°F).

Step 8: Optional topping

1. Brush the buns lightly with water or milk.

2. Sprinkle with oats or seeds if desired.

Step 9: Bake

1. Bake the buns in the middle of the oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown on top and firm underneath.

2. Tap the bottom of a bun—if it sounds hollow, it’s done.

Step 10: Cool

1. Remove the buns from the oven.

2. Let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect with butter, cheese, or marmalade.

• Serve with soup or as part of a breakfast or fika table.