20 recipe ideas to use up jam
Discover some new and inventive ways to use up any leftover jam you have in the fridge
We've rounded up some of our favourite recipes with jam, so whether you've got a batch of homemade jam to use up or a store-bought jar that's been in the cupboard a while, try one of our favourite jam recipes to satisfy that sweet craving and use up your produce.
Whether you want an easy classic like jam tarts or you need a showstopping cake like our chocolate & raspberry birthday layer cake, there'll be something for every occasion and skill level. If you're in need of some savoury options to use up chilli jam, why not enjoy a chilli jam ploughman's for lunch?
If you want to get started with making your own, be sure to check out our top tips for making jam. For more inventive ways to make sure you're getting the most out of your everyday storecupboard ingredients, see our top storecupboard recipes for more easy ideas.
20 ways to use up jam
1. Classic scones with jam & clotted cream
One of the most popular ways to use up strawberry or raspberry jam, you can make a batch of our classic scones in 20 minutes, or by a pack of shop-bought for ease. The question is, are you jam or cream first? If your scones are going to be part of a bigger spread, read up on our tips on how to throw an afternoon tea party.
2. Peanut butter & jam pudding
The popular combo of peanut butter and jam works beautifully in this peanut butter & jam pudding. This would make for a delicious weekend dessert to use up strawberry jam, best served warm with custard or vanilla ice cream.
3. Easy jam tarts
The best thing about these easy jam tarts is that you can fill them with whatever leftover jam or curd you like, so you're guaranteed to make something everyone will like. Our recipe gives instructions for the pastry, but you could always buy it ready-made and have these on the table in less than 30 minutes for a sweet afternoon treat. If you want more of a wow-factor, make our giant jam tart as an alternative.
4. Jam roly-poly
Our simple-to-make jam roly-poly will bring back so many delicious childhood memories, and will go down a storm at any family dinner. Cut into thick slices and serve with custard. Check out our retro cake recipes for more comforting classics you and your family will love.
5. Chilli jam ploughman's
Liven up your weekday sandwich with our chilli jam ploughman's. Combine cheese and rocket with your leftover chilli jam and add to a crusty, toasted baguette for a next level lunch.
6. Blackberry doughnuts
So you've made a big batch of blackberry jam with your foraged berries. Why not use some to make these pillowy blackberry doughnuts? They're great served with a bit of custard to compliment the zingy blackberries. They do take a little effort so would be great for a weekend baking project.
7. Classic Victoria sandwich
A Victoria sponge is a classic cake everyone will love. Spread with liberal amounts of leftover strawberry jam and buttercream for a simple teatime treat or celebration cake. Discover more of our users' most popular cakes that are perfect for any occasion.
8. Coconut & jam macaroon traybake
Combine the flavours of coconut, raspberry jam and dark chocolate in this winning coconut & jam macaroon traybake – it's a great way to use up that leftover jam in the cupboard and a good option to pack up for a picnic. Get some more inspiration from our top picnic recipes to help you plan the perfect family day out.
9. Iced buns with jam & cream
Our iced buns with jam & cream are ideal for using up several different flavours of jam in one bake. Learn how to pipe cream and shape dough using our step-by-step guide to make these extra special treats.
10. Jam turnovers
These jam turnovers are great for using up leftover puff pastry and jam and can be made in half an hour if you're not making the pastry from scratch. Serve with clotted cream and a cup of tea for a sweet snack or dessert. Check out our puff pastry recipes for more ideas on how to use up any leftover pastry.
11. Strawberry jam ripple ice cream
Our recipe for strawberry jam ripple ice cream is very adaptable so you could use whatever leftover jam you have lying around. It makes for a divine summer dessert that will keep in the freezer for up to three months.
12. Easy cornflake tart
Make this easy cornflake tart for a fabulously simple family dessert that uses storecupboard ingredients. With a ready-rolled pastry case and raspberry jam base, it's delicious served with custard for a scrumptious pud.
13. Jam & coconut sponge pudding
These individual no-fuss jam & coconut sponge puddings are a great dessert after Sunday lunch and will use up the last of the jam left in the jar. Serve with thick, warm custard for a filling end to a family meal. Have a look at some of our other comforting pudding recipes that are winners every time.
14. Chocolate & raspberry birthday layer cake
Like a Vicky sponge but better, our chocolate & raspberry birthday layer cake is a real showstopper and will be devoured in no time. Combine budget-friendly frozen raspberries with your leftover raspberry jam for a sweet yet tart filling between indulgent chocolate sponge cake.
15. Deck of card dodgers
Have fun with the kids in the kitchen with this recipe for our deck of card dodgers. They are great for a birthday party and can also be adapted to use up whatever jam you have lying around. If you're in need of a showstopping cake, have a look at our favourite animal cake recipes for your next birthday party.
16. Squash & halloumi flatbreads with sweet chilli beetroot jam
Do something different for a family dinner with squash & halloumi flatbreads with sweet chilli beetroot jam. If you make a bigger batch of the chilli beetroot jam, experiment and try using it in other sandwiches or wraps to use up the leftovers.
17. Berry & chocolate loaded cookies
Cookies are always a great go-to bake for kids and this is one they'll love to get involved in. Crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, these berry & chocolate loaded cookies are huge, which adds to the fun. They're sandwiched with a tart raspberry jam and white chocolate for a winning flavour combination.
18. American pancakes
Easy, fluffy American pancakes are great for feeding a crowd at breakfast or brunch and are a great way to use up jam. Pair your jam with peanut butter for a classic American flavour combination. Get inspired by our favourite brunch recipes if you're looking to put on a larger spread.
19. Viennese whirls
These elegant and buttery Viennese whirls might look extra impressive but they're surprisingly easy to make. Why not dip in chocolate for an extra sweet treat?
20. Plum, raspberry jam & cardamom crumble squares
Add a layer of leftover jam to bakes like these plum, raspberry jam & cardamom crumble squares for a simple way to get more flavour. These moreish crumble squares are made with raspberry jam and plums.
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