Easy Strawberry Chia Jam

Name: Easy Strawberry Chia Jam
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 cups
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped; 2 tablespoons chia seeds; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making this Easy Strawberry Chia Jam during the summer when strawberries are at their peak sweetness. The simplicity of this recipe allows me to whip up a fresh spread that’s perfect for breakfast or snacking. Using chia seeds not only adds a lovely texture but also offers a healthy boost of omega-3s. With no added sugar needed, the natural sweetness of the strawberries shines through, making it a guilt-free indulgence that my family adores.

Created by

Tabitha Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:51:36.423Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of using chia seeds as a thickening agent for jams, I was so intrigued! I decided to give it a go, and the results were nothing short of amazing. The jam not only had a wonderful texture, but it also held together perfectly, allowing me to spread it on toast without any mess.

One tip I’d love to share is to let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes after cooking. This is when the chia seeds really swell and absorb the liquid, creating that perfect jam consistency. Plus, the flavor deepens, making each spoonful a delight!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Natural sweetness from fresh strawberries without added sugar
Chia seeds add a unique texture and delightful crunch
Quick and easy to make with just a few simple ingredients

The Benefits of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are not just a trendy addition; they play a crucial role in thickening the jam while offering a unique and delightful texture. When combined with liquid, chia seeds swell and form a gel-like consistency, which enhances the overall mouthfeel of the jam. This means you get a thicker spread without the need for pectin or other thickeners, making it a simple and wholesome option for your breakfast toast.

Additionally, chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. This nutritional boost makes the jam not only a delicious treat but also a more health-conscious choice for you and your family. I appreciate how these tiny seeds contribute a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the strawberries.

Ingredient Quality Matters

When making this Easy Strawberry Chia Jam, the quality of your strawberries will significantly affect the final product. Opt for ripe, organic strawberries if possible, as their natural sweetness and vibrant flavor truly shine through without the need for added sugars. Look for strawberries that are bright red and free from blemishes for the best results.

If strawberries are out of season or you want to try something different, consider using other berries such as raspberries or blueberries. Each berry will bring its unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize your jam according to your preferences or what’s available at your local market.

Storage and Versatility

Once your jam is made, it's essential to store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. Use a clean, airtight jar and place it in the refrigerator. Your jam should stay fresh for about 1-2 weeks. If you make a large batch, consider portioning it into smaller jars for future use. This way, you can enjoy fresh jam whenever the craving hits without worrying about leftovers going to waste.

This jam isn't just perfect for spreading on toast; it can also serve as a tasty filling for pastries, a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, or an ingredient in smoothies. Experimenting with different serving ideas can keep your meals interesting while allowing you to savor the freshness of summer strawberries all year round.

Ingredients

For the Jam

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Mix all the ingredients well and allow to thicken!

Instructions

Cook the Strawberries

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries and honey or maple syrup. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the strawberries have released their juice and softened.

Add Chia Seeds

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chia seeds and lemon juice until well combined.

Cool and Set

Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken. You can mash the mixture with a fork for a smoother consistency if desired.

Store

Transfer the jam to a clean jar and store in the refrigerator. It should last about 1-2 weeks.

Enjoy your homemade chia jam on toast, pancakes, or yogurt!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different fruits like raspberries or blueberries to create your own unique jams!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your jam isn't thickening as much as you'd like, it could be due to the type of strawberries used; some varieties contain more water. If this happens, let the mixture sit a little longer, giving the chia seeds more time to absorb moisture. Alternatively, you can add an extra tablespoon of chia seeds to reach your desired consistency without compromising flavor.

Conversely, if your jam becomes too thick, you can easily adjust this by stirring in a bit of water or lemon juice while it's still warm. This not only helps adjust the texture but also enhances the flavor, balancing out any sweetness.

Scaling the Recipe

This Easy Strawberry Chia Jam recipe can easily be scaled up or down based on your needs. If you want to make a larger batch for gifts or parties, simply multiply the ingredient amounts by the desired factor. However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so watch the consistency as it cooks. If making a smaller batch, you can divide each ingredient by half or cut down to a single cup of strawberries.

Remember that larger batches can take longer to cool and thicken, so be patient. I often find it useful to keep a close eye on the mixture during the cooling stage to ensure I achieve the perfect spreadable consistency.

Freezing for Later Use

If you want to make a big batch and save some for later, this chia jam freezes beautifully. Allow the jam to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label the containers with the date and use them within 3 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

To repurpose thawed jam, consider using it in smoothies or as a filling for cakes and pastries. It adds a burst of fruity flavor and can be a delightful surprise in baked treats. By freezing some now, you can enjoy the taste of summer strawberries even in the colder months!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well too! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking.

→ How do I store the jam?

Store the jam in a clean jar in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks.

→ Can I omit the sweetener?

Absolutely! If you prefer a completely sugar-free option, skip the sweetener as the strawberries are naturally sweet.

→ What can I use chia jam on?

This jam is great on toast, pancakes, yogurt, or even as a filling for desserts!