How to Make Easy Raspberry Chia Seed Jam Recipe

This easy raspberry chia seed jam recipe is so simple and inexpensive you will never have to buy jelly or jam at the grocery store again. If you are getting kids ready for school these days, you’re probably packing lunches. Maybe even making peanut butter and jelly? This raspberry chia seed recipe is a much healthier version than traditional jam or store-bought jam. So, throw away that jar of name brand jelly that includes artificial flavors and added sugar and try this simple jam instead.

Raspberries are one of my favorite fruits. I love all berries but really appreciate how raspberries are simple, sweet and tart. I don’t even mind all of the seeds that get left in your teeth. This jam is the simplest thing I have ever made. It is only three ingredients and takes about ten minutes. This easy raspberry chia seed jam is great by the spoonful but also amazing on toast, with peanut butter, mixed into oatmeal or on top of ice cream. 

Raspberry Nutrients

Raspberries are high in vitamin C, antioxidants and fiber. Vitamin C is crucial for the immune system and collagen production. Vitamin C and the antioxidants in raspberry can also help to fight disease keeping you healthy and improving your overall wellbeing. Studies even show that the antioxidants found in raspberries help to fight cancer cells. Eating raspberry on their own is easy but it is so fun to include them in different recipes like this raspberry jam.

Ingredients

Raspberries: When choosing raspberries, picking organic is important. Since raspberries have a fuzzy exterior it can be difficult to wash them clean of the many pesticides that are sprayed on conventional produce. Choosing organic will lower your toxic load and is a safer option for children. If you can’t find fresh raspberries but are still wanting to make this recipe, organic frozen raspberries are a great option.

Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are rich in plant omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Their fiber content makes them a great option for those struggling with bowl health, choose organic chia seeds from a trusted source. (find a shopping list below)

Lemon Juice: Lemon juice gives the jam a splash of acidity and extra vitamin C while helping to keep it fresh longer. The best option for this recipe is fresh juice from an organic lemon.

Honey: I like to make this easy raspberry jam recipe without any added sugar because I like the tang of the raspberries but if you would like more sweetness, raw honey is a great addition. Raw honey can give you nutrients that aid in immunity, digestive health, brain function and so much more. Look for a local, raw option that is organic if possible.

Cinnamon: This ingredient is optional but I love the depth of flavor and warmth it gives to the raspberry jam. My favorite is Ceylon cinnamon.

How to Make Easy Raspberry Jam Recipe

I typically use frozen raspberries for this recipe for a few reasons. They are always easy to find, no matter the season, you don’t have to worry about some of the berries being rotten or tasting funny because frozen produce is most often picked at peak ripeness. I have also found that frozen berries are cheaper than fresh berries but you can use fresh berries in this raspberry jam recipe just the same.

1. Heat 2 cups of frozen or fresh raspberries in a sauce pan over low to medium heat. You want the berries to get warm and to start to release their juices. Once you see this happening you know they are ready to remove from the heat. It can take anywhere from 5-10 minutes.
2. Remove the raspberries from the heat and mash them together. I like to use a potato masher but a fork will work too. The raspberries should come together very easily and it is ok if there is lots of juice.
3. Allow the berries to cool for about 5 minutes then sprinkle 2 tablespoons of organic chia seeds and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon, if desired, over the berries. Squeeze a little lemon juice over the mixture and then stir to combine. At this point you can also add in honey to sweeten the raspberry jam.
4. Let the raspberry jam set for another 5-10 minutes until you see it starting to congeal. The chia seeds should start to turn the whole mixture into jam consistency.
5. Spoon the raspberry jam into an airtight container, I like to use a mason jar, and store in the refrigerator for about a week, if it lasts that long.

FAQ’s

Is chia jam healthy? Yes, chia seed jam can be healthy for digestion, adding fiber to your diet along with all the nutrients found in the fruit.

Is there a downside to eating chia seeds? If you struggle with digestive issues chia seeds could be hard for your body to digest, causing symptoms like bloating and gas, especially if you are not consuming enough fluids.

What is the ratio of chia seeds to fruit for jam? For jam, mix 1 cup of fruit (mashed with the juices) with 1 tablespoon of chia seeds.

What do chia seeds do for jam? Chia seeds are a binding agent for jam. When mixed with liquid, like from fruit, they form a gel creating a jam like consistency.

How long does it take for chia seeds to become jelly? It depends on the amount of liquid, it can take chia seeds any where from 5 minutes to hours to form jelly.