Description
This Homemade Blueberry Chia Seed Jam is a quick, healthy, and naturally sweetened jam recipe perfect for spreading on toast, stirring into yogurt, or topping your favorite desserts. Made with fresh or frozen blueberries, chia seeds, and a touch of honey or maple syrup, it thickens naturally without any added pectin and offers a delightful burst of fruity flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Scale
Jam Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Blueberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, honey (if using), and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the blueberries begin to break down and release their juices.
- Mash Blueberries: Use a fork or potato masher to mash the blueberries to your desired consistency, leaving some chunks if you prefer a rustic jam texture.
- Thicken Jam: Add the chia seeds and water to the blueberry mixture, stirring to combine. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and the jam to thicken.
- Add Vanilla and Cool: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, if using. Let the jam cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a jar or airtight container.
- Refrigerate: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools. Enjoy on toast, oatmeal, yogurt, or as a topping for desserts!
Notes
- For a sweeter jam, add more honey or maple syrup to taste.
- You can use fresh or frozen blueberries; if frozen, thaw slightly before cooking.
- Store the jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Chia seeds are used to naturally thicken the jam without pectin or gelatin.
- Feel free to experiment by adding other berries or flavor extracts.
