Easy Strawberry Chia Jam

Name: Easy Strawberry Chia Jam
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 cups
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped; 2 tablespoons chia seeds; 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Soft Inspiration

I absolutely love making this Easy Strawberry Chia Jam because it's not only simple but also bursting with fresh, fruity flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious jam that is a healthier alternative to store-bought options. I find that using chia seeds as a natural thickener adds a fantastic texture without needing to cook the fruit for hours. Plus, it's ready in no time, making it perfect for a spontaneous breakfast treat or a sweet topping for desserts.

Created by

Darcy Penrose

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:53:36.746Z

When I first tried making my own jam, I was amazed at how easy it was. This Easy Strawberry Chia Jam turned out to be a game-changer. The chia seeds soak up the juice from the strawberries, creating a thick and spreadable texture without any added sugars. I remember the first time I made it; the vibrant color and natural sweetness completely transformed my breakfast!

One tip I learned along the way is to slightly mash the strawberries before mixing in the chia seeds. This enhances the flavor and creates a balanced consistency. You can also customize it by adding a splash of lemon juice for a citrusy twist or mixing in other berries for a unique flavor. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought jams!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh strawberry flavor that captures summer in every bite
Nutritious chia seeds packed with fiber and omega-3s
Quick and easy preparation with no cooking required

Understanding Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are the star ingredient in this Easy Strawberry Chia Jam, acting as a natural thickener and providing nutritional benefits. When mixed with the mashed strawberries, chia seeds absorb moisture, blossoming into a gel-like consistency without the need for cooking. This not only retains the fresh, vibrant flavor of the strawberries but also reflects its bright red color, making the jam visually appealing as well.

Beyond their thickening properties, chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, making this jam a healthier alternative to traditional recipes. The seeds swell after absorbing fluid, creating a delightful texture that adds a bit of crunch to the smoothness of the jam, transforming your toast or yogurt into a healthful treat.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Strawberry Chia Jam beautifully complements various dishes. Spread it on toasted whole-grain bread, swirl it into your morning yogurt, or use it as a sweet topping for pancakes and waffles. Its versatility means you can enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert garnish.

For a twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or zest from an orange or lemon to the berry mixture. These additions can elevate the flavor profile and provide a unique taste experience, ensuring that your jam stands out whether at breakfast or as part of a dessert platter.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once your Easy Strawberry Chia Jam is prepared, proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness. Transfer the jam into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator; it should stay good for up to a week. The chia seeds will continue to thicken the mixture slightly, so if you notice the jam becoming too thick for your liking, stir in a teaspoon of water to loosen it up before serving.

If you want to enjoy this jam for a longer period, consider freezing it. Pour the jam into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for easy portioning. When ready to use, simply thaw the desired amount in the refrigerator overnight. This method preserves the fresh taste of strawberries while allowing you to enjoy a homemade treat anytime.

Ingredients

For the Easy Strawberry Chia Jam

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a mixing bowl, mash the chopped strawberries with a fork or potato masher until you achieve your desired level of chunkiness.

Mix in Chia Seeds

Stir in the chia seeds, honey or maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract until well combined.

Let It Sit

Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chia seeds will absorb moisture and the jam will thicken.

Store and Enjoy

Transfer the jam to a clean jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy it on toast, yogurt, or as a sweet topping for desserts.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of lemon juice when mixing the ingredients. If you prefer a smoother texture, puree the strawberries before mixing in the chia seeds.

Key Techniques

When preparing the strawberries, mash them to your preferred consistency. For a chunkier texture, use a fork to gently press the berries, leaving larger pieces for a more rustic jam. Alternatively, if you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the strawberries briefly in a food processor. This versatility in preparation ensures that the resulting jam meets your personal texture preferences.

Letting the mixture sit for about 10 minutes is crucial. During this time, the chia seeds absorb the strawberry juice and swell, giving the jam its signature thick texture. Stirring occasionally ensures even distribution of the seeds, which is key for a uniform consistency throughout the jam.

Ingredient Substitutions

While fresh strawberries offer the best flavor, you can easily substitute them with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Each fruit has its unique sweetness, so you may need to adjust the sweetener depending on the fruit's natural sweetness. For example, raspberries can be more tart, so you might increase the honey or maple syrup slightly.

If you prefer a vegan option, honey can be swapped with maple syrup or agave nectar. Additionally, for those with dietary restrictions, chia seeds can be replaced with ground flaxseed, keeping in mind that the texture will differ slightly; flaxseed tends to be more grainy. Make sure to use the same quantity to maintain the recipe's balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

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

→ How long can I store this jam?

The jam can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute chia seeds with something else?

Chia seeds are key for thickening, but you could experiment with ground flaxseeds as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, as long as you use maple syrup instead of honey, this jam is completely vegan!