Description
This easy-to-make Raspberry Chia Jam is a healthier, no-sugar-added alternative to traditional jam, and it’s perfect for Valentine’s Day! With the natural sweetness of raspberries and the texture-enhancing power of chia seeds, this jam is a delightful treat for toast, pastries, or as a topping for desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, to enhance flavor)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
Instructions
- Cook the Raspberries:
- In a medium saucepan, add the raspberries over medium heat. Stir occasionally as they begin to break down, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Use a spoon to mash them up as they soften.
- Add the Sweetener and Lemon Juice:
- Once the raspberries are soft and juicy, add the maple syrup or honey (if using), lemon juice, and vanilla extract (if desired). Stir until well combined and allow the mixture to simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add Chia Seeds:
- Stir in the chia seeds and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and thicken the jam. Keep stirring until you reach your desired consistency.
- Cool the Jam:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the jam cool for about 10 minutes. It will thicken even more as it cools.
- Store the Jam:
- Once cooled, transfer the jam into a clean jar or container and store it in the refrigerator. The chia jam will last for about 1-2 weeks in the fridge.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Spread the raspberry chia jam on toast, yogurt, pancakes, or enjoy it on your favorite Valentine’s Day desserts!
Notes
- Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness according to your preference by adding more or less maple syrup or honey. If you prefer a tart jam, you can skip the sweetener altogether.
- Consistency: If you prefer a smoother jam, you can use an immersion blender or regular blender to blend the jam before storing it.
- Storage: This jam stores well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
- Other Berries: Feel free to swap the raspberries for other berries like strawberries, blackberries, or blueberries to create your own custom chia jam.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 15
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0g