Swedish Limpa (Rye Bread) Recipe

Name: Swedish Limpa (Rye Bread)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2/3 cup molasses; 2 1/2 cups water; 2/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar; 1 tablespoon ground fennel; 2 teaspoons salt; 1/4 cup shortening; 1 (2-ounce) cake compressed yeast; 1/2 cup lukewarm water; 4 cups sifted medium rye flour; 5 cups sifted all-purpose flour, plus 1/2 cup; Melted butter

Servings: persons

1
In a saucepan, mix together molasses, water, brown sugar, fennel, and salt.
2
Bring to boiling point, then gently cook, uncovered, for 5 minutes.
3
Remove from heat and add shortening.
4
Let stand until lukewarm.
5
Dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup lukewarm water.
6
Add cooled molasses mixture and mix well.
7
Stir in the rye flour.
8
Beat until smooth.
9
Cover and let rise at room temperature overnight, about 9 to 10 hours.
10
In the morning add 5 cups white flour, and place remaining 1/2 cup on a pastry cloth or board for kneading.
11
Turn out the dough and knead until smooth and elastic.
12
Place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise until double in size, 2 to 2 1/2 hours.
13
Cut dough in half and shape into 2 loaves (round is more traditional).
14
Place in 2 greased 9 inch pie pans.
15
Cover with a clean cloth and let rise until light, about 2 hours.
16
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
17
Bake for 45 to 55 minutes.
18
Remove and brush tops with melted butter.

1122

kcal

Calories

Fat

241

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 11 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2/3 cup molasses, 2 1/2 cups water, 2/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon ground fennel, and more.

Yes, Swedish Limpa (Rye Bread) falls under the General category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Swedish Limpa (Rye Bread)

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions