In our house, we do our best to avoid processed sugars, which means finding healthy alternatives to the usual sugary staples. Below is our homemade chia jam. It’s packed with fibre, antioxidants, and natural goodness from the fruit, and the best part? No processed sugar in sight!
This recipe is super simple, quick to make, and you can use whatever fruit your family enjoys most. The key is to not overcook the fruit, so you retain as many of the natural nutrients as possible. Chia seeds are the magic ingredient here—when mixed with the fruit, they expand and help thicken the jam, creating that perfect consistency we all love.
After the kids recently tasted Nana’s sugary jam, it was clear we needed a healthier alternative. So, Mahli and I got to work, and the result? A total hit! Here’s the recipe we made together:
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Sugar-Free Chia Jam Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of mixed berries (or your preferred fruit)
- 2 tablespoons of chia seeds
- Optional: honey or coconut nectar for added sweetness
(simply double recipe if needed)
Instructions:
1. In a small pan, heat the fruit on medium heat. As it warms, use a masher to press the fruit to your desired consistency.
2. Once the fruit is heated through (but not overcooked), remove from heat.
3. Stir in the chia seeds and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. The chia seeds will expand and thicken the jam.
4. It’s ready to eat! If you find it a bit tart, feel free to mix in some honey or coconut nectar.
We like using coconut nectar because it’s lower on the glycemic index, meaning it won’t spike blood sugar as much as other sweeteners.
Not only is this jam a delicious option for breakfast or snacks, but it’s also a great way to get more fibre and antioxidants into your day. Plus, you can feel good knowing it's a wholesome treat for the kids.
Let me know if you give it a try—I’d love to hear how your family enjoys it! 🌿✨
