Jam Drops
Jam Drops are one of those recipes that instantly take you back in time.
For many of us, they were one of the very first things we learned to bake. Whether it was alongside Mum on a weekend, at Grandma's house during the school holidays or in Year 8 Home Economics class, Jam Drops seemed to be on everyone's must-bake list. Along with favourites like Cornflake Cookies and Chocolate Weet-Bix Slice, they were one of those simple homemade treats that appeared in kitchens everywhere. They weren't fancy, but somehow they never went out of style.
Made with a simple buttery dough and filled with a spoonful of sweet jam, they're everything we love about old-fashioned baking. The custard powder gives them their classic melt-in-your-mouth texture while the jam centre adds just the right amount of sweetness.
It's easy to see why they've remained a favourite for generations. They're simple, reliable and made from ingredients most of us already have in the pantry, yet they always feel a little bit special when they come out of the oven.
Perfect for lunchboxes, afternoon tea, bake sales, morning teas or simply enjoying with a cuppa, these classic Jam Drops are proof that some recipes really do stand the test of time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Made with simple pantry ingredients
A nostalgic Australian favourite
Perfect for lunchboxes and afternoon tea
Great recipe for baking with kids
Soft buttery biscuits with a sweet jam centre
Easy to customise with your favourite jam
Freezer friendly
Ready in around 30 minutes
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jam Drops:
With a cup of tea
In school lunchboxes
As part of an afternoon tea platter
For bake sales and cake stalls
As a simple homemade gift
Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Jam Drops can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Allow to thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations
Raspberry Jam Drops
A classic choice with a lovely tangy flavour.
Strawberry Jam Drops
A family favourite and perfect for children.
Apricot Jam Drops
A delicious old-fashioned variation.
Mixed Berry Jam Drops
Adds extra berry flavour and sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my Jam Drops spread too much?
The butter may have been too warm. Chilling the dough for 15 minutes before baking can help.
Can I use plain flour instead of self-raising flour?
Yes. Replace the self-raising flour with 1½ cups plain flour and add 1½ teaspoons baking powder.
Why is custard powder used in Jam Drops?
Custard powder gives the biscuits their signature flavour and soft melt-in-your-mouth texture.
What is the best jam to use?
Raspberry and strawberry are the traditional favourites, but any thick jam will work well.
Can I make Jam Drops ahead of time?
Yes. They store beautifully and are perfect for making a few days ahead.
Other Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you enjoy classic homemade baking, you might also like:
Jam Drop Cookies
Ingredients
- 125g butter, softened
- 1/2 cup caster sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 cup self raising flour
- 1/3 cup custard powder
- 1/2 cup strawberry or raspberry jam
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
- Preheat oven 160ºC fan forced. Line two oven trays with baking paper.
- Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla and beat until combined.
- Sift in the flour and custard powder and slowly mix on low speed until the dry and wet ingredients are mixed well. Take care not to over mix!
- Roll a heaped teaspoon sized ball of dough lightly and place on the lined tray.
- Using a lightly floured finger or the end of a wooden spoon, make a small indentation in the middle of each dough ball.
- Spoon enough jam into the centre of the jam drop until it is filled up to the rim. This will be roughly ¼ - ½ teaspoon.
- Bake in a preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and cool completely on the trays.
