Jam roly poly is an affordable, family-friendly dessert that’s truly stood the test of time. Even if you haven’t enjoyed this childhood classic in years, chances are you know it well!

Keep reading to learn more about the traditional recipe, and how you can adapt it to make it your own.

What is a jam roly poly?

A jam roly poly is made from a soft but spongey suet dough, seasoned with a good pinch of salt, rolled out and generously spread with jam. You can enjoy the comforting flavours on their own, with cream or lashings of warm custard.

This staple dessert has a history as rich as its flavour. The roly poly first emerged in the 19th century as an inexpensive and easy-to-make savoury dish, filled with bacon, onions and herbs. Recipes for the sweet, jam-filled version we recognise today began appearing in the mid-1800s.

Around 1944, this hearty pudding became a regular feature on school dinner menus across the UK, enjoyed by generations ever since.

While it was originally boiled in a muslin cloth, now it’s more commonly wrapped in greaseproof paper and baked in the oven for a slightly softer and fluffier finish.

The best classic jam roly poly recipe

Whether the jam roly poly is a fond childhood memory, or still a firm favourite in your household, this homemade version is low effort and full of flavour.

Perfect for sharing with the family after dinner or enjoying as a weekend treat, it’s the kind of classic recipe that hits the spot!

Filling variations you can try at home

Traditionally, strawberry or raspberry jam is used to add a pleasing balance of sweetness and tang.

Although the classic jam fillings are hard to beat, there are plenty of fun (and equally delicious) alternatives to explore.

Golden syrup or treacle

For a richer, more indulgent flavour, swap the jam filling for golden syrup or treacle. This quick and easy change delivers wonderfully sticky results as the dough absorbs the syrup during baking. Serve warm with custard or cold cream to balance out the sweetness.

Lemon curd

Perfect for the brighter months, lemon curd makes a fresh, zesty alternative to berry jam. Its balance of sweetness and acidity offers a lively twist while keeping all the comforting qualities of a classic jam roly.

Can you make a vegan jam roly poly?

The versatility of this dessert makes it easy for everyone to enjoy. For a vegan version that keeps all the comforting appeal of the original, simply:

• Swap the milk for an unsweetened plant-based alternative such as oat, almond or soy.

• Choose vegetable suet or experiment with another plant-based fat like coconut oil.

• Opt for a plant-based cream or custard to finish.

Our jam sugar is vegan-friendly too, making it a great choice for creating your own plant-based fillings.

Ready to get started?

Now that you know its origins, history and creative alternatives, you can give our jam roly poly recipe a try!

Making your jam at home? Check out our jam sugar, which contains the ideal balance of sugar and pectin to help your jam set with the perfect texture every time.