This homemade blueberry chia jam is a healthy alternative to store-bought jams. It’s naturally sweetened, refined sugar-free, and doesn’t need pectin or artificial thickeners. With just 3–4 simple ingredients and 15 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a fresh, fruity spread ready to enjoy.
The natural sweetness of blueberries is balanced with lemon juice and zest for a bright flavor. Chia seeds act as a natural thickener, giving the jam its gel-like consistency while adding fiber, protein, and omega-3s. If you love making quick, healthy recipes, this one will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Jam
- Naturally sweetened – no refined sugar, just optional maple syrup.
- No pectin or fillers – only wholesome ingredients.
- Quick & easy – ready in just 15 minutes.
- Versatile – spread it, swirl it, or spoon it over desserts.
- Freezer-friendly – store for up to 6 months.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (thawed if frozen)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
- 1/3 cup lemon juice (from the same lemon)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/3 cup chia seeds
Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the blueberries
Add blueberries, lemon zest, lemon juice, and maple syrup (if using) to a medium saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until blueberries begin to burst.
Step 2 – Mash the fruit
Using a potato masher or fork, gently mash about half the berries. Leave some whole pieces for texture.
Step 3 – Thicken with chia
Increase the heat and let the mixture boil for another 5 minutes to reduce excess liquid. Remove from heat, then stir in the chia seeds.
Step 4 – Store the jam
Pour the jam into clean, dry jars. Let cool, then refrigerate or freeze. The jam will thicken more as it cools because the chia seeds absorb liquid.
Tips & Tricks
- Always zest the lemon before juicing it.
- Don’t mash into a puree—chunks of blueberries give better texture.
- If the jam looks thin, let it cool; chia seeds will firm it up.
- For a smoother jam, grind the chia seeds before adding.
- Try with other fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries.
- Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze up to 6 months.
How to Use Blueberry Chia Jam
- Spread on toast, bagels, or crumpets.
- Swirl into yogurt, oatmeal, or overnight oats.
- Use in PB&J sandwiches.
- Spoon over pancakes, waffles, brownies, or ice cream.
Blueberry Chia Jam (No Pectin)
Description:
A quick and healthy homemade blueberry chia jam made with just 3–4 ingredients. No refined sugar, no pectin, and ready in 15 minutes. Perfect for spreading, stirring, or topping your favorite dishes.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: About 2 cups (16 servings)
Calories: 40 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (from 1 large lemon)
- 1/3 cup lemon juice (from same lemon)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
- 1/3 cup chia seeds
Instructions
- Place blueberries, lemon juice, zest, and maple syrup (if using) in a saucepan. Simmer 5 minutes until berries burst.
- Mash about half the berries with a fork or potato masher, leaving some chunks.
- Increase heat, boil 5 minutes to reduce liquid. Remove from heat.
- Stir in chia seeds. Pour into clean jars and let cool.
- Store in fridge up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months.
Nutrition
Calories: 40cal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 52mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 23IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 26mg | Iron: 1mg
