Easy Chia Seed Jam

You’re going to LOVE this deliciously healthy Easy Chia Seed Jam!

There are so many reasons to LOVE this Easy Chia Seed Jam. It’s 100% whole food plant-based, gluten-free and so much healthier than the store-bought variety. You can enjoy it in so many ways, such as swirled into plant-based yogurt, as a topping on waffles, or thickly slathered in your next PB&J sandwich 🙂

Have you noticed how store-bought jam is LOADED with sugar? Well, it doesn’t have to be. In this recipe, Chia Seeds are used to thicken the jam instead of sugar. Chia seeds are one of nature’s bountiful gifts. These little beauties are nutritional superstars – consider the following:

Health Benefits of Chia Seeds:

• Nutrient-Rich: Chia seeds are packed with nutrients including fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium.
• Digestive Health: The high fiber content in chia seeds can promote digestive health by supporting regular bowel movements, preventing constipation, and aiding in overall digestive function.
• Heart Health: The omega-3 fatty acids in chia seeds, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), may help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of heart disease.
• Blood Sugar Regulation: Chia seeds may help regulate blood sugar levels due to their high fiber and protein content, which can slow down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream.
• Weight Management: The combination of fiber, protein, and healthy fats in chia seeds can help promote satiety, making you feel fuller for longer periods and potentially aiding in weight management or weight loss efforts.
• Bone Health: Chia seeds are a good source of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
• Hydration: When soaked in water, chia seeds form a gel-like substance, which can help retain moisture and prolong hydration. This property can be beneficial for athletes or individuals engaged in physical activity.
• Antioxidant Properties: Chia seeds contain antioxidants such as flavonoids, quercetin, and chlorogenic acid, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Brain Health: Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for brain health and cognitive function, and chia seeds provide a plant-based source of these essential nutrients.
• Skin Health: The combination of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and minerals in chia seeds may contribute to healthy skin by reducing inflammation, promoting collagen production, and protecting against oxidative damage.

What type of fruit should I use to make Easy Chia Seed Jam?

You can use fresh or frozen to make it more convenient. I usually use frozen berries as it’s so much more cost effective. Here are some suggestions:

• raspberries (my favorite)
• strawberries
• blueberries
• cherries
• peaches
• apricots

Benefits to making Chia Seed Jam!

• you know exactly what’s in it and can control the amount of sweetener
• you can whip up a small batch in a few minutes
• NO CANNING is required (yay!)
• use fresh or frozen fruit

Is it easy to make?

YES! So quick and easy:) Here’s what you do:

1. Cook the fruit and water in a pan
2. Mash it up
3. Add your flavorings such as lemon or orange juice, maple or date syrup, and vanilla extract
4. Let it cool – it will thicken as it cools
5. Place in an airtight container and store in the fridge  THAT’S IT!

How long will Chia Seed Jam keep?

In an airtight container, the jam will keep for 1 week in the fridge.

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Easy Chia Seed Jam

Print Recipe

A delicious, healthy jam.

• Author: Mary Callan
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: dessert,
• Method: stove top
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

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2 cups frozen or fresh berries

1 tbsp water

1 tbsp lemon juice OR orange juice and zest

2 tbsp chia seeds

3 – 4 tbsp maple or date syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Add raspberries and water to a saucepan and cook over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Use a fork to mash the berries to your desired consistency.

3. Add lemon or orange juice, zest, chia seeds, syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.

4. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes (it will thicken considerably as it cools).

5. Stir well and allow to cool, or transfer to an airtight container, place in the fridge where it will keep for up to 1 week.

I hope you love this Chia Seed Jam! If you do make it, I’d love to hear from you, please leave a comment and rate the recipe! Thanks so much and happy cooking:)

Looking for other Chia Seed recipes? Try these:

Chia Pudding with Berries

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