This blueberry chia jam is one of those simple recipes I keep coming back to. It’s made with just frozen blueberries, chia seeds, and a splash of vanilla! Comes together in minutes, and has a no added sugar unless you want to add some maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. I love using it to boost fiber and healthy fats at breakfast or snack time without overthinking it or relying on store-bought jams that are mostly sugar.
Why You’ll Love This Blueberry Chia Jam
- great for breakfasts, snacks, and baking
- made with frozen blueberries (no prep needed)
- naturally thickened with chia seeds
- no added sugar option
- toddler-friendly texture
- ready in under 15 minutes
This would be perfect swirled into these peanut butter and jelly oat muffins or on top of my cottage cheese cheesecake cups!
Jump to:
Ingredients You'll Need
Here's all you'll need to make this super easy blueberry chia jam:
- wild blueberries: naturally sweet and rich in antioxidants and fiber
- chia seeds: help thicken the jam while adding fiber and omega-3 fats
- vanilla extract: enhances sweetness without needing extra sugar
- maple syrup (optional): allows you to adjust sweetness for older kids or adults
See recipe card for quantities.
How To Make Your Blueberry Chia Jam
- Step 1: Add frozen blueberries to a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Step 2: Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until berries burst and release their juices.
- Step 3: Lightly mash the berries, remove from heat, and stir in chia seeds, vanilla, and maple syrup (if using).
- Step 4: Let sit 10-15 minutes to thicken before using or storing.
Hint For The Best Blueberry Chia Jam
Let the jam sit for at least 10-15 minutes before deciding if it needs more chia seeds. Chia continues to absorb liquid as it rests, and adding too much too soon can make the jam overly thick. It’s always easier to thicken later than to thin it out. You can also add some orange juice or apple juice for a little extra flavor!
Variations
Feel free to swap out the blueberries with other fruit to make different flavored chia jam!
- strawberry chia jam: use frozen strawberries in place of blueberries
- mixed berry chia jam: use a mix of blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries
- raspberry chia jam: swap in frozen raspberries for a slightly tart jam
- blueberry vanilla bean: add seeds from ½ a vanilla bean or extra vanilla extract
- blueberry lemon: stir in ½-1 teaspoon lemon zest after cooking for a bright flavor
- peach chia jam: use frozen peaches, chopped, and cook until very soft
Equipment
You’ll need a small saucepan to cook the blueberries, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, and a fork or potato masher to gently mash the fruit. A measuring spoon set and an airtight container or jars for storage are all you need, no blender required.
Storing Your Blueberry Chia Jam
Store blueberry chia jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. You can also freeze it in small portions (like an silicone ice cube tray) and thaw as needed.
Tiff's Dietitian Tip
Chia jam is a simple way to add fiber and healthy fats to toddler meals without relying on added sugars. For younger toddlers, spread it thinly and pair it with protein or fat (like yogurt or nut/seed butter) to help keep blood sugars steady and little bellies satisfied longer.
FAQ
Yes! You just might need to add some liquid since the frozen will defrost and have natural liquid.
Absolutely. For a smoother texture, blend after it thickens especially helpful for toddlers who'd rather have a smooth texture!
It likely just needs more time. Chia seeds continue to absorb liquid as the jam rests. Let it sit 10-15 minutes before adding more chia.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this blueberry chia jam:
Blueberry Chia Jam (easy 3 ingredients, no added sugar!)
Equipment
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen wild blueberries
- 2 tablespoon chia seeds
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 teaspoon maple syrup optional, to taste
Instructions
- Add frozen blueberries to a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until berries burst and release juices.
- Lightly mash berries, remove from heat, and stir in chia seeds, vanilla, and maple syrup (if using).
- Let sit 10-15 minutes to thicken before using or storing.
Sophie says
So easy and super yummy. Added some soaked, blended dates for a little more sweetness and was delicious. I will be making this regularly to cut out added sugar jams that we usually use from the store.
toddlerdietitiantiff says
Yayyy so glad y'all loved it!! Isn't it so easy?! Love how you mixed dates in yours, I'll have to do that next time!
Hillary says
As easy as it gets and my babe loves it on the cottage cheese pancakes. Great use of frozen berries, and the chia seeds are always my secret weapon for keeping little guts moving.
toddlerdietitiantiff says
Isn't it so easy to make?! We love it on the cottage cheese pancakes too and french toast!