Some recipes are so simple they barely feel like recipes at all. This blackberry chia seed jam comes together quickly on the stovetop with fresh berries, lemon juice, chia seeds, and a touch of vanilla for warmth.
It’s an easy way to use fresh berries without needing pectin, canning equipment, or a lot of added sugar. Simple, natural, and made in small batches on purpose. Just enough for the week.
I usually keep a jar in the refrigerator for sourdough toast, yogurt bowls, oatmeal, or spooning into chia pudding throughout the week.



Blackberry Chia Seed Jam
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Fork or potato masher
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Glass jar for storage
Ingredients
- 1 container fresh blackberries about 6 oz
- 1 –2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey optional, depending on sweetness
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Add the blackberries to a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Mash gently with a fork or potato masher as the berries soften.
- Simmer for about 8–10 minutes until juicy and broken down.
- Stir in the lemon juice, vanilla extract, and sweetener if using.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chia seeds.
- Let sit for 10–15 minutes to thicken as the chia absorbs the liquid.
- Transfer to a glass jar and cool completely before storing in the refrigerator.
Video
Notes
- The jam thickens more as it chills.
- For a smoother jam, mash thoroughly or strain some of the seeds.
- Made in small batches on purpose — just enough for the week.
- Good on sourdough toast, yogurt bowls, oatmeal, or chia pudding.
- Adjust the sweetness depending on how ripe your berries are.
- This version is naturally a little more tart than store bought, so if you like it sweet increase the honey or maple syrup.


A small jar, a handful of berries, and ten minutes. That’s really all it takes.
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