How to Make Easy Strawberry Chia Seed Jam. Healthy and Delicious!

How to Make Easy Strawberry Chia Seed Jam. Healthy and Delicious! is a easy American recipe that serves 8. 60 calories per serving. Recipe by Thyme to Cook with Kristi on YouTube.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 13 min | Total: 30 min

Cost: $4.40 total, $0.55 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Strawberries (hulled and sliced)
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed from half a lemon)
  • 3 tablespoons Honey (raw or any honey)
  • 2 tablespoons Chia Seeds (raw, unsalted)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Fruit and Lemon Juice

    Place strawberries on a cutting board, hull and slice them, then measure out 2 cups. Cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice of half a lemon through a fine mesh strainer into the saucepan, catching any seeds.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Cook Strawberries

    Add the sliced strawberries and lemon juice to a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the berries soften, break down, and the mixture becomes slightly thick, about 8–10 minutes.

    Time: PT10M

  3. Sweeten the Jam

    Stir in 3 tablespoons of honey until fully dissolved. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes to let the honey meld with the fruit.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Thicken with Chia Seeds

    Remove the saucepan from heat. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chia seeds over the hot fruit mixture and stir vigorously until the seeds are evenly distributed.

    Time: PT1M

  5. Transfer and Chill

    Pour the jam into a clean glass jar, let it cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
60
Protein
1 g
Carbohydrates
12 g
Fat
2 g
Fiber
3 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Low-Sugar

Allergens: Honey, Chia seeds

Last updated: March 30, 2026

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How to Make Easy Strawberry Chia Seed Jam. Healthy and Delicious!

Recipe by Thyme to Cook with Kristi

A quick, low‑sugar strawberry jam thickened naturally with chia seeds. The chia seeds swell in the fruit liquid, giving the jam a rich, spreadable texture without the need for added pectin or excess sugar. Perfect for toast, pancakes, oatmeal, or as a healthy snack for kids.

EasyAmericanServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
8m
Prep
12m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
30m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$4.40
Total cost
$0.55
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Cook strawberries until they soften and break down (Step 2).
  • Stir in chia seeds while the mixture is still hot to achieve proper thickening (Step 4).

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot saucepan with oven mitts to avoid burns.
  • Do not give honey to children under 1 year old.
  • Chia seeds expand; drink plenty of water if consuming large amounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of strawberry jam in American cuisine?

A

Strawberry jam has been a staple in American households since the early 20th century, originally made to preserve the summer bounty of strawberries for year‑round use. It became popular with the rise of home canning and is now a classic accompaniment to toast, biscuits, and breakfast dishes.

cultural
Q

What traditional variations of strawberry jam exist in American cooking?

A

Traditional American strawberry jam often uses sugar and pectin. Variations include adding orange zest, bourbon, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth. The Strawberry Chia Seed Jam replaces most of the sugar with honey and uses chia seeds as a natural thickener.

cultural
Q

On what occasions is strawberry jam traditionally served in the United States?

A

Strawberry jam is commonly served at breakfast, brunch, and holiday meals. It appears on holiday gift baskets, at summer picnics, and as a sweet topping for pancakes, waffles, and biscuits during family gatherings.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for strawberry jam versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional strawberry jam uses fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, and sometimes commercial pectin. Acceptable substitutes include honey, maple syrup, or agave for sweetening, and chia seeds or ground flaxseed as a natural thickener, as demonstrated in this recipe.

cultural
Q

How does strawberry jam fit into the broader American breakfast tradition?

A

Jam is a classic spread for toast, biscuits, and English muffins, providing a quick sweet element that pairs well with butter, peanut butter, or cream cheese. It adds flavor and fruit nutrition to a typical American breakfast plate.

cultural
Q

How has the use of chia seeds changed traditional jam recipes in recent years?

A

Chia seeds have become popular as a health‑focused thickening agent, allowing jam makers to cut back on refined sugar and avoid added pectin. Their gel‑forming ability creates a spreadable texture while adding fiber, omega‑3s, and protein, reflecting modern wellness trends.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Strawberry Chia Seed Jam?

A

Common mistakes include overcooking the fruit, which can turn the jam bitter, and not stirring the chia seeds enough, leading to clumps. Also, adding too much honey can make the jam overly sweet and prevent proper setting.

technical
Q

Why does this Strawberry Chia Seed Jam recipe use chia seeds instead of traditional pectin?

A

Chia seeds naturally swell and create a gel when mixed with liquid, providing a thick, spreadable texture without the need for added sugar or commercial pectin. This keeps the jam lower in sugar and adds nutritional benefits like fiber and omega‑3 fatty acids.

technical
Q

Can I make Strawberry Chia Seed Jam ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the jam can be prepared up to a week in advance. Store it in a sealed glass jar in the refrigerator; it will keep for 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in small portions, though the texture may become slightly grainy after thawing.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Thyme to Cook with Kristi specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Thyme to Cook with Kristi focuses on wholesome, everyday recipes that emphasize fresh ingredients, quick preparation, and nutrition‑focused twists on classic dishes. Kristi often highlights pantry staples and health‑friendly alternatives.

channel
Q

What is the cooking philosophy and style of the YouTube channel Thyme to Cook with Kristi?

A

Thyme to Cook with Kristi promotes a relaxed, approachable cooking style that encourages home cooks to experiment with nutritious ingredients like chia seeds, whole grains, and fresh produce. Kristi emphasizes clear, step‑by‑step instructions and practical tips for busy lifestyles.

channel

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