Berry Chia Seed Jam (Printable)

A quick, vibrant spread made with fresh berries and chia seeds. Naturally sweetened and ready in 15 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fruit Base

01 - 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)

→ Sweetener

02 - 2-3 tablespoons pure maple syrup or honey, adjusted to taste

→ Thickener

03 - 2 tablespoons chia seeds

→ Flavor Enhancers

04 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 - 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

# Directions:

01 - Combine berries in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until berries break down and release their juices.
02 - Use a fork or potato masher to mash berries to your preferred texture—chunky for preserves-style or smooth for traditional jam consistency.
03 - Stir in maple syrup (or honey), chia seeds, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until fully incorporated.
04 - Remove from heat and let mixture stand for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chia seeds will absorb liquid and naturally thicken the jam.
05 - Taste the jam and add additional sweetener if needed to achieve desired sweetness level.
06 - Transfer jam to a clean glass jar. Allow to cool completely to room temperature before covering with lid.
07 - Store sealed jar in refrigerator for up to 1 week. Jam must remain refrigerated as it is not shelf-stable.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • No pectin or canning equipment required, just a saucepan and a spoon
  • The chia seeds create this gorgeous gel texture while packing in omega 3s
  • You can adjust the sweetness to match whatever berries you picked up at the market
02 -
  • Chia jam keeps about one week in the refrigerator, never leave it at room temperature for more than a few hours
  • The jam will continue to thicken in the fridge, so dont panic if it seems slightly loose when you first jar it
03 -
  • If you want perfectly smooth jam, blitz the cooked berries in a blender before adding the chia seeds
  • Warm the jam slightly before serving if its been in the fridge for easier spreading