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How to Make Healthy and Easy Chia Seed Jam with Fresh Berries Recipe

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4.2 from 40 reviews

This healthy and easy chia seed jam recipe uses fresh berries, chia seeds, and natural sweeteners to create a flavorful, nutritious spread without any added pectin or preservatives. Perfect for a wholesome breakfast or snack, it’s simple to make on the stovetop and sets up naturally thanks to chia seeds, providing a fiber-rich, antioxidant-packed alternative to traditional jams.

Ingredients

Jam Ingredients

  • 3 cups Fresh Berries of choice (such as strawberries, blueberries, blackberries)
  • ¼ cup Filtered Water
  • 1 tbsp Maple Syrup (or substitute with agave, coconut sugar, or granulated sugar)
  • 2-3 tbsp Chia Seeds (2 tbsp recommended for a softer set, 3 tbsp for thicker jam)
  • Juice of ½ Lemon

Instructions

  1. Cook the Berries and Sweetener: In a nonstick saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh berries, filtered water, and maple syrup. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, mashing some berries gently to release their juices and allowing the mixture to naturally thicken.
  2. Add Chia Seeds and Thicken: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the chia seeds until thoroughly incorporated. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb liquid and thicken the jam further.
  3. Finish with Lemon and Store: Stir in the fresh lemon juice to add brightness and balance the sweetness. Transfer your chia seed jam to a clean glass jar, then refrigerate. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools and can be stored refrigerated for 7-14 days.

Notes

  • You can use any type of fresh or frozen berries; frozen berries require an additional 2-5 minutes of simmering due to extra liquid content.
  • This recipe is optimized for berries because of their high water content; other fruits like stone fruits are not tested and may alter texture.
  • Maple syrup can be substituted with agave, coconut sugar, or granulated sugar, but sweetness levels may vary; adjust accordingly.
  • For a softer jam texture, use 2 tablespoons of chia seeds; for a thicker, spoonable jam, use 3 tablespoons.