Easy Strawberry Chia Jam

Name: Easy Strawberry Chia Jam
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped; 2 tablespoons chia seeds; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Easy Plate Ideas

I love making my own jam, and this Easy Strawberry Chia Jam is one of my favorites! Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also has a fresh taste that store-bought varieties just can’t match. Using chia seeds gives this jam an amazing texture and natural thickness without any need for pectin. Plus, it takes only a few minutes to whip up, making it a fantastic last-minute addition to your breakfast spread or a delightful spread for snacks throughout the day.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:54:37.050Z

When I first discovered how easy it was to make jam with chia seeds, it was a game changer! I’ve always loved sweets but found traditional jam recipes too time-consuming and sugary. With chia, I can adjust the sweetness to my taste, using just a bit of honey or maple syrup. The nutty flavor of the seeds pairs beautifully with the strawberries, creating a vibrant and nutritious spread.

One of my favorite tips is to let the jam sit for a bit after mixing so the chia seeds can fully absorb the liquid. This really enhances the texture! I often make a batch to enjoy on toast, but it also makes a lovely topping for yogurt or pancakes.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant strawberry flavor
Nutritious chia seeds add fiber and Omega-3s
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients

Unlocking the Magic of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds play a crucial role in this jam, acting as a natural thickening agent without the need for pectin. When hydrated, these tiny seeds swell and absorb liquid, creating a gel-like texture that binds the ingredients together. For the best results, it's essential to let your jam sit for 10-15 minutes after mixing; this allows the chia seeds ample time to absorb moisture and expand, resulting in the perfect spreadable consistency.

Not only do chia seeds enhance the texture, but they are also a powerhouse of nutrition. Adding just two tablespoons provides a generous dose of Omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, making your homemade jam not only delicious but also a healthy choice. For a fun variation, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or vanilla to the mix, which not only complements the strawberry flavor but also adds an aromatic depth.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

This Easy Strawberry Chia Jam is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent addition to various dishes. Spread it on warm toast or fluffy pancakes for a quick breakfast, or use it as a topping for yogurt and granola for a nutritious snack. Additionally, it pairs wonderfully with cheese—consider serving it alongside a soft goat cheese or creamy brie for an elegant appetizer.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can turn this jam into a filling for pastries or desserts. It works perfectly as a layer in a trifle or as a topping for cheesecake. Just remember, the jam will thicken further as it sits, so adjust your ingredient quantities accordingly if you're planning to use it in baking applications.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your strawberry chia jam:

Ingredients

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

Once you have your ingredients ready, you are all set to create the jam!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Easy Strawberry Chia Jam:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, mash the chopped strawberries using a fork or potato masher until you reach your desired consistency—leave some chunks for texture if you like!

Mix in Chia and Sweetener

Add the chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, and lemon juice to the mashed strawberries. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Let it Thicken

Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will give the chia seeds time to absorb the liquid and thicken the jam.

Store and Enjoy

Transfer the chia jam to a clean jar or container. It can be refrigerated for up to a week. Enjoy on toast, pancakes, or as a yogurt topping!

Now that you’ve made your jam, get creative with how you use it!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute other berries or fruits for a different flavor. Just remember that each fruit may require adjustment in sweetness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This chia jam is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it ideal for meal prepping. To maintain its texture and flavor, transfer your jam to an airtight container, ensuring it is sealed tightly. If you notice the jam thickening too much after a few days, simply stir in a teaspoon or two of water to loosen it up before serving.

If you want to make a larger batch, this recipe easily doubles or triples. Just ensure you have enough storage containers on hand. Also, keep in mind that the thickening time may vary slightly with larger quantities; a good strategy is to give it an extra few minutes after mixing to ensure a perfect consistency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your jam comes out too runny, it might need more time to let the chia seeds expand. Simply give it an additional 5-10 minutes to sit. Alternatively, you can add an extra tablespoon of chia seeds to enhance the thickness. On the flip side, if your jam turns out too thick, a small amount of water mixed in will help achieve a more spreadable consistency.

Flavor adjustments are also straightforward. If you prefer a sweeter jam, feel free to add more honey or maple syrup incrementally, tasting as you go. You can also experiment with different sweeteners, like agave or coconut sugar, to tailor the taste to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before mashing.

→ How long does this jam last?

The jam can be refrigerated for up to one week. Store it in an airtight container.

→ Can I omit the sweetener?

Absolutely! You can adjust the sweetness to your preference or omit it entirely if your strawberries are sweet enough.

→ Do I need to cook the jam?

No cooking is required! The chia seeds thicken the mixture without heat.