Name: How to Make Chia Seed Jam Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups Fresh Berries of choice (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, or mix); 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 moderate thickness, 3 tbsp for very thick jam); Juice of ½ Lemon

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Introduction

Chia seed jam is a simple and healthy alternative to traditional jams, perfect for spreading on toast or adding to yogurt. Made with fresh berries and naturally thickened by chia seeds, this homemade jam is both delicious and nutritious.

A clear glass jar filled with dark red, slightly textured chia seed jam with visible tiny seeds spreads near the top, sitting on a white marbled surface. A silver spoon with a patterned handle rests inside the jar, sticking out at an angle. To the left, there is a halved lemon showing pale yellow inside, a red strawberry cut in half, and a whole blackberry. In the background, there is another small glass jar filled with chia seeds and some scattered chia seeds with a silver spoon on the right side. A blurred mix of fresh fruits including strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries lies further back on a white and blue cloth. The overall setting is bright and natural. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups fresh berries of choice*
¼ cup filtered water
1 tbsp maple syrup*
2-3 tbsp chia seeds*
Juice of ½ lemon

Instructions

Step 1: In a nonstick saucepan, combine the fresh berries, filtered water, and maple syrup. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Mash some of the berries as you stir to help them break down.
Step 2: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chia seeds until well combined. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken.
Step 3: Stir in the lemon juice, then transfer the jam to a glass jar. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator.

Tips & Variations

Feel free to use any combination of fresh or frozen berries; frozen berries may require an additional 2-5 minutes of simmering to reduce excess water.
Maple syrup can be substituted with agave, coconut sugar, or granulated sugar—adjust sweetness to taste.
For a thicker jam, use 3 tablespoons of chia seeds; for a softer texture, use 2 tablespoons as the jam thickens further overnight.
This recipe is designed for berries, which have high water content; other fruits may alter the texture.

Storage

Store the chia seed jam in a sealed glass jar in the refrigerator for 7-14 days. When ready to use, simply stir the jam if separation occurs. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A single slice of light golden brown bread with a soft, airy texture forms the base layer, sitting on a white speckled plate. On top of the bread is a thick, dark red berry jam spread unevenly with visible small seeds, creating a glossy, rich texture. A silver knife covered in jam rests diagonally across the bread. Beside the bread on the plate, three fresh blueberries add a pop of blue color. In the background, a clear glass jar filled with more of the dark red jam stands on a white marbled surface. A blurred plate of mixed berries including strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries sits off to the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen berries work well, but you may need to simmer the mixture for an extra 2-5 minutes to evaporate excess liquid.

How thick will the chia seed jam be?

The jam thickens as it cools and overnight in the fridge. Using 2 tablespoons of chia seeds gives a soft spreadable jam, while 3 tablespoons will result in a firmer texture.