Easy Berry Chia Seed Jam (Printable)
A quick, naturally sweetened berry spread thickened with nutritious chia seeds. Perfect for elevating breakfasts and desserts.
# What You Need:
→ Fruit
01 - 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen; strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
→ Sweetener
02 - 2–3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey, to taste
→ Thickener
03 - 2 tablespoons chia seeds
→ Flavor
04 - ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 - ½ teaspoon lemon juice
# How-To Steps:
01 - Place the berries in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the berries begin to break down and release their juices, about 5 minutes.
02 - Use a fork or potato masher to mash the berries to your preferred texture, whether chunky or smooth.
03 - Stir in the maple syrup (or honey), chia seeds, vanilla extract, and lemon juice if using.
04 - Remove from heat and let the mixture sit for at least 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The jam will thicken as the chia seeds absorb the liquid.
05 - Taste the jam and add more sweetener if desired.
06 - Transfer the jam to a clean jar. Allow to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.
07 - Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
# Helpful Tips:
01 -
- It comes together in 15 minutes with zero canning knowledge required
- You control exactly how much sweetness goes into every jar
02 -
- This jam will continue thickening in the refrigerator, so don't panic if it seems slightly loose when you first jar it
- Blending half the mixture after cooking gives you a professional smooth texture while keeping some whole berry pieces
03 -
- Make a double batch during berry season and freeze small portions in ice cube trays for instant jam months later
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for warm spice notes that pair beautifully with darker berries