The Hairy Bikers Jam Roly Poly Recipe is a classic British dessert that feels warm and comforting. It is soft, sweet and filled with delicious jam.
Many people love this old-fashioned pudding because it reminds them of home cooking. When you learn how to make Hairy Bikers Jam Roly Poly, you will see how simple and fun it is.
With basic ingredients for Hairy Bikers Jam Roly Poly, you can create a dessert that feels nostalgic and cozy. It’s perfect for family dinners or weekend treats.
Why I Love Making This Jam Roly Poly
Jam Roly Poly always makes me smile. It is one of those desserts that feels simple but special. When the sweet jam melts into the soft dough, the smell in the kitchen becomes wonderful.
I also love how easy it is to prepare. It does not require fancy equipment or complicated steps. The recipe feels comforting and traditional. It reminds me of warm puddings served after dinner on cold evenings.
Every slice shows a beautiful swirl of jam. It looks charming and tastes even better.
Equipment List
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry brush
- Small saucepan
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Name: Hairy Bikers Jam Roly Poly
- Servings: 6 slices
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: British
- Calories: 310 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Hairy Bikers Jam Roly Poly
- 2 cups self-raising flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup strawberry jam (or raspberry jam)
- 1 tablespoon milk for brushing
- 1 tablespoon sugar for sprinkling
Optional for serving:
- Custard sauce
- Vanilla ice cream
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper. This prevents the pudding from sticking and makes cleanup easier later.
2. Make the Dough
Place the flour and sugar in a mixing bowl. Add the chilled butter pieces. Rub the butter into the flour using your fingers until it looks like fine crumbs.
3. Add the Milk
Slowly pour milk into the flour mixture. Mix gently until the dough forms. Do not overmix because you want the dough soft and light.
4. Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface. Place the dough on the surface and roll it into a rectangle. The thickness should be about half an inch.
5. Spread the Jam
Spread the jam evenly across the dough. Leave a small border around the edges so the jam does not spill out while baking.
6. Roll the Dough
Carefully roll the dough from one long side to the other. You will create a log shape with a beautiful jam swirl inside.
7. Place on Baking Tray
Place the rolled pudding seam side down on the prepared tray. Brush the top lightly with milk. Sprinkle a little sugar for a golden finish.
8. Bake the Jam Roly Poly
Bake in the oven for about 30–35 minutes. The pudding should turn golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
9. Let It Rest
Remove the pudding from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the slices hold their shape when cutting.
10. Slice and Serve
Cut the pudding into slices. Serve warm with custard, cream or ice cream for a perfect dessert.
Read More: Funky Batter Buttercream Recipe
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use raspberry jam for a slightly tangy flavor.
- Do not overwork the dough or it may become tough.
- Add lemon zest to the dough for a fresh taste.
- Sprinkle coconut or crushed nuts inside with the jam.
- Serve with warm custard for the classic British experience.
History or Fun Fact About the Dish
Jam Roly Poly is a famous British pudding from the 19th century. It was often served in school cafeterias and family homes. The dessert was originally steamed in cloth, which is why it was sometimes called “dead man’s arm.”
Today, baked versions like the Hairy Bikers Jam Roly Poly Recipe are popular because they are easier to prepare at home.
Pairings & Complementary Recipes
- Warm vanilla custard
- Fresh whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh berries
- Light fruit compote
Occasion or Event Ideas
- Family Sunday dinners
- Cozy winter evenings
- Holiday desserts
- Afternoon tea gatherings
- Casual dinner parties
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
- You can also warm them in the oven at low temperature.
- Freeze wrapped slices for up to 1 month.
- Thaw before reheating for the best texture.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
Health Benefits
While Jam Roly Poly is a sweet dessert, it can still fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. The dish provides energy from carbohydrates and a small amount of protein from flour and milk.
Homemade desserts also allow you to control sugar and ingredient quality, making them better than many processed sweets.

Hairy Bikers Jam Roly Poly Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups self-raising flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter chilled and diced
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup strawberry jam or raspberry jam
- 1 tablespoon milk for brushing
- 1 tablespoon sugar for sprinkling
Optional for serving:
- Custard sauce
- Vanilla ice cream
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper. This prevents the pudding from sticking and makes cleanup easier later.
Make the Dough
- Place the flour and sugar in a mixing bowl. Add the chilled butter pieces. Rub the butter into the flour using your fingers until it looks like fine crumbs.
Add the Milk
- Slowly pour milk into the flour mixture. Mix gently until the dough forms. Do not overmix because you want the dough soft and light.
Roll Out the Dough
- Lightly flour your work surface. Place the dough on the surface and roll it into a rectangle. The thickness should be about half an inch.
Spread the Jam
- Spread the jam evenly across the dough. Leave a small border around the edges so the jam does not spill out while baking.
Roll the Dough
- Carefully roll the dough from one long side to the other. You will create a log shape with a beautiful jam swirl inside.
Place on Baking Tray
- Place the rolled pudding seam side down on the prepared tray. Brush the top lightly with milk. Sprinkle a little sugar for a golden finish.
Bake the Jam Roly Poly
- Bake in the oven for about 30–35 minutes. The pudding should turn golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
Let It Rest
- Remove the pudding from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the slices hold their shape when cutting.
Slice and Serve
- Cut the pudding into slices. Serve warm with custard, cream or ice cream for a perfect dessert.
Notes
- Use raspberry jam for a slightly tangy flavor.
- Do not overwork the dough or it may become tough.
- Add lemon zest to the dough for a fresh taste.
- Sprinkle coconut or crushed nuts inside with the jam.
- Serve with warm custard for the classic British experience.
FAQs about Hairy Bikers Jam Roly Poly
What jam works best for Jam Roly Poly?
Strawberry and raspberry jam are the most traditional choices. They provide bright flavor and sweetness that pairs well with the soft dough.
Can I steam Jam Roly Poly instead of baking it?
Yes, traditional Jam Roly Poly is often steamed in cloth or parchment. However, baking is easier and gives a slightly crisp exterior.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the pudding earlier in the day. Reheat it gently before serving to keep it warm and soft.
Can I use store-bought pastry instead of homemade dough?
You can, but homemade dough creates the classic texture. It also absorbs the jam flavor better during baking.
What is the best topping for Jam Roly Poly?
Warm custard is the most traditional topping. Many people also enjoy it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Final Thoughts
The Hairy Bikers Jam Roly Poly Recipe is a beautiful example of classic comfort food. It is simple, sweet and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Once you learn how to make Hairy Bikers Jam Roly Poly, you will see how easy it is.
With basic ingredients for Hairy Bikers Jam Roly Poly, you can create a nostalgic dessert that tastes warm and delicious. This pudding is perfect for cozy evenings and happy family meals.

Zoey Lane is the voice behind ZoeyCooks.com, where she shares comforting, home-tested recipes inspired by everyday cooking. She believes great food should be simple, approachable and enjoyable to make.












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