Strawberry Chia Jam

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with just a few wholesome ingredients
• Naturally thickened with chia seeds
• No pectin required
• Quick and easy to prepare
• Customizable sweetness level
• Great for meal prep and healthy snacking

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh strawberries
chia seeds
honey or maple syrup
lemon juice
vanilla extract

Directions

1. Wash, hull, and chop the strawberries into small pieces.
2. Place the strawberries in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and juicy.
3. Mash the strawberries with a fork or potato masher to your desired consistency.
4. Stir in the chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
7. Transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until set.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 1 1/2 cups (approximately 12 servings)
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 20–30 minutes
Total time: 35–45 minutes

Variations

• Mixed Berry Jam: Substitute half the strawberries with blueberries or raspberries.
• Low-Sugar Option: Reduce or omit the sweetener for a more tart spread.
• Citrus Twist: Add orange zest for extra brightness.
• Smooth Version: Blend the cooked strawberries before adding chia seeds for a smoother texture.
• Spiced Jam: Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.

Storage/Reheating

Store Strawberry Chia Jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

This jam does not require reheating. Stir well before serving if any separation occurs.

FAQs

How do chia seeds thicken the jam?

Chia seeds absorb liquid and form a gel-like consistency, naturally thickening the mixture.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, thaw them first and drain excess liquid before cooking.

Is this jam as sweet as store-bought?

It is typically less sweet, but you can adjust the sweetener to taste.

Can I make this jam without cooking?

Yes, mash fresh strawberries and mix with chia seeds and sweetener, then refrigerate until thickened.

How long does chia jam take to set?

It usually thickens within 20–30 minutes as it cools.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, maple syrup, agave, or a sugar substitute can be used.

Why is my jam too runny?

It may need more chia seeds or additional cooling time to thicken fully.

Can I strain out the seeds?

Chia seeds are essential for thickening, so straining is not recommended.

Is Strawberry Chia Jam healthy?

It’s made with simple ingredients and contains fiber from chia seeds, making it a wholesome alternative to traditional jam.

What can I serve with chia jam?

It pairs well with toast, yogurt, oatmeal, pancakes, waffles, and desserts.

Conclusion

Strawberry Chia Jam is a simple, fresh, and naturally thickened spread that’s easy to make at home. With its bright strawberry flavor and wholesome ingredients, it’s a delicious alternative to traditional jam. Once you try this quick recipe, it’s sure to become a regular addition to your breakfast and snack routine.

Strawberry Chia Jam

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A naturally sweet and fresh Strawberry Chia Jam made with simple ingredients and thickened with chia seeds, perfect for toast, yogurt, oatmeal, and desserts.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings (about 1 1/2 cups)
• Category: Spread
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Wash, hull, and chop the strawberries into small pieces.
2. Place the strawberries in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and juicy.
3. Mash the strawberries with a fork or potato masher to your desired consistency.
4. Stir in the chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
7. Transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until set.

Notes

• The jam thickens as it cools; allow at least 20–30 minutes for proper setting.
• If too runny, add an additional teaspoon of chia seeds and let sit longer.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Adjust sweetness to taste depending on the ripeness of the strawberries.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
• Calories: 35 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 1 mg
• Fat: 1 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg