Jam roly poly

Jam roly poly is a traditional British dessert made by rolling a simple dough filled with jam, then baking it for a comforting treat. Its key flavors come from the buttery dough combined with your choice of jam, making it perfect for a sweet indulgence.

16 Feb 2026
Cook time 120 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 cup self-raising flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 cup butter
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup milk (1% fat)
Jam roly poly

Jam roly poly is a classic British dessert made with a simple dough that's rolled out, spread with jam, and then either baked or steamed to create a deliciously comforting treat. This version uses pantry staples and can be prepared with ease, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet or shallow baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of self-raising flour and 1 tablespoon of baking powder. Mix well to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed.
4. Cut in the Butter:
Add 1/2 cup of cold butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Add the Sugar:
Mix in 1/4 cup of sugar to the flour and butter mixture.
6. Add the Milk:
Gradually add 1/2 cup of milk to the bowl, stirring to combine. Mix until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
7. Roll Out the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick. Aim for a size that is about 12 inches by 8 inches.
8. Spread the Jam:
Spread a generous layer of your favorite jam over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent the jam from leaking out during baking.
9. Roll Up the Dough:
Starting from one of the longer sides, carefully roll the dough up tightly into a log shape. Pinch the seam and ends to seal the jam inside.
10. Place on Baking Sheet:
Carefully transfer the rolled dough to your prepared baking sheet or dish, seam side down.
11. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the roly poly is golden brown and cooked through.
12. Serve:
Allow the jam roly poly to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with a drizzle of custard, a scoop of ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream.

With its golden crust and sweet jam filling, jam roly poly is a nostalgic dessert that brings back fond memories of home. It's simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser, sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Jam roly poly FAQ:

What is the best jam to use for jam roly poly?

You can use any fruit jam based on your preference. Popular choices include strawberry, raspberry, or apricot jams. Make sure the jam is spreadable for easy application.

How long do I bake the jam roly poly?

Bake the jam roly poly for 25-30 minutes at 180°C (350°F) until it's golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on it towards the end to ensure it doesn't overbake.

Can I make jam roly poly ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and roll it with jam in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. Bake just before serving for the best texture.

What can I substitute for self-raising flour?

If you don't have self-raising flour, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder. For every cup of flour, add 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder.

Can I steam the jam roly poly instead of baking it?

Yes, you can steam the jam roly poly as an alternative to baking. Place it in a steamer for about 30-35 minutes, ensuring it's well wrapped to avoid water getting in.

Tips:

- Ensure that the butter is cold when you mix it into the flour. This helps create a flaky texture in the dough.

- For added flavor, you can mix a pinch of salt into the flour before adding the other ingredients.

- When spreading the jam, leave a small border around the edges to prevent it from leaking out during rolling and baking.

- Roll the dough gently and evenly to ensure the roll stays intact.

- For a lighter version, consider steaming the jam roly poly instead of baking it. Wrap it in parchment paper or a cloth and steam for about 1.5 to 2 hours.

- Serve warm with a drizzle of custard or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 270kcal
Protein 3.83g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 0.76g
Sugar 9g
Fat 16g

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