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 roughly chopped; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons chia seeds; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Sweet Table Classics

I've always loved the sweet, tart flavor of strawberries, and this Easy Strawberry Chia Jam captures that essence perfectly. Making jam at home seemed daunting at first, but with chia seeds as a natural thickener, I've discovered that it can be delightfully simple. In just a few minutes, I whip up a fresh batch that pairs beautifully with toast, yogurt, or even desserts. This recipe not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also gives me the satisfaction of enjoying homemade goodness.

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:41:35.707Z

As I worked on this jam, I noticed how the chia seeds absorbed the natural juices from the strawberries, turning the mixture into a delightful spread without any added pectin. It amazed me how a simple ingredient could create such a luscious texture. I found it helpful to mash the strawberries just enough to maintain some chunks for a more rustic feel.

Using fresh strawberries is key to achieving the best flavor, and I've discovered that adjusting the sweetness to personal taste makes all the difference. This jam has become a staple in my kitchen, and it’s rewarding to know exactly what goes into it.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant strawberry flavor that shines through
Quick and easy method with minimal ingredients
Healthy alternative to store-bought jams without preservatives

The Beauty of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds play a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture for this jam. They absorb liquid and swell, creating a natural gel-like consistency without the need for pectin or excessive cooking. This unique property makes them an excellent thickener, allowing you to control the jam's sweetness and fruitiness. When the seeds are added and allowed to sit, they will thicken the mixture significantly, so patience during this step is essential.

Also, chia seeds are rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, making your homemade jam not only delicious but also a nutritious option. Given how versatile they are, you could experiment with different fruits, like blueberries or raspberries, while keeping the chia seeds as a consistent ingredient, ensuring your texture remains ideal.

Choosing the Right Strawberries

Selecting the right strawberries is vital for creating a jam that bursts with flavor. Opt for ripe, organic strawberries when possible; they'll have the best taste and sweetness. Look for strawberries that are deep red without any white spots or bruises. If you find them slightly under-ripe, consider adding a bit more sweetener to balance the tanginess during cooking.

Don’t be afraid to use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren't available. Just ensure you thaw and drain them to prevent excess liquid in the cooking process. The flavor will still be vibrant, and the texture will hold up well, giving you delicious results without compromising the integrity of the jam.

Ingredients

For the jam

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

Instructions

Prepare the strawberries

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

Add chia seeds

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chia seeds. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken the jam.

Cool and store

After 5 minutes, transfer the jam to a clean jar and let it cool completely. Once cooled, store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Pro Tips

For a different flavor, try mixing in other berries or a splash of vanilla extract. Adjust the sweetness based on your berry's natural ripeness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Once your jam has cooled completely, it's essential to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Use an airtight jar to prevent air exposure, which can cause spoilage. This jam can be refrigerated for up to two weeks, making it a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the sweet strawberry taste without needing to make it daily.

If you find yourself with an ample supply of strawberries during the season, this recipe is easily scalable. Simply double or triple the ingredients while keeping the cooking time similar, adjusting only if the volume increases significantly. You can also divide the jam into smaller jars for easy gifting or for using different flavors if you decide to batch make various fruit combinations.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Strawberry Chia Jam is incredibly versatile and can elevate a variety of dishes. Spread it generously on warm toast or bagels for a delightful breakfast. It's also fantastic stirred into yogurt or oatmeal, providing a natural sweetness and a satisfying texture contrast.

If you're feeling creative, try using this jam as a topping for desserts. It pairs beautifully with panna cotta or cheesecake, adding a fresh fruity layer that cuts through richness. You could also layer it in parfaits with granola and whipped cream for an impressive and delicious treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

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

→ How long can I store this jam?

The jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.

→ Can I substitute chia seeds with anything else?

Chia seeds are best for thickening, but you can use ground flaxseeds as an alternative, though the texture will be different.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey, this recipe is completely vegan!