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Sugar free strawberry jam is a quick, naturally sweet spread made with just 3 ingredients and ready in 10 minutes. It tastes like real fruit and is perfectly thick without pectin – perfect for babies, kids, and even adults!
Table of Contents
No Added Sugar Strawberry Jam
I’ve always loved a good PB&J, but becoming a mom to two littles has made me appreciate it even more!
Store-bought jam is convenient, but most have more sugar than I’d like. That’s why I often make this easy sugar free strawberry jam at home. It’s ready in minutes, and my kids love it!
Instead of sugar and pectin, this jam gets its flavor and texture from just a few simple ingredients: ripe strawberries, a splash of lemon juice, and chia seeds to naturally thicken.
If you’ve made chia seed pudding before, you know how chia seeds turn liquid into a thick, spoonable consistency—perfect for jam.
This recipe is:
- Naturally sweet with no refined sugar
- Great for babies and toddlers
- Freezer-friendly and quick to prep
- Made with just 3 simple ingredients
I hope it becomes a staple in your home too!
Have extra strawberries? Try my 2-ingredient easy strawberry juice recipe or healthy homemade gummies!
Ingredients
- Strawberries – Both fresh or frozen strawberries will work. I recommend using fresh strawberries when in season for best flavor. Here’s how to freeze strawberries at home!
- Chia seeds – will help thicken the jam without pectin. Here’s everything you need to know about serving chia seeds to babies along with recipes.
- Lemon juice – not only will it enhance the flavor of the strawberries, it will help prolong the shelf life.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: In a medium sauce pan, add strawberries and lemon.
Step 2: Simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries release their juices and turn soft. Mash with a potato masher or back of a fork or spatula, until it reaches desired consistency (smooth or lumpy).
Step 3: Stir in chia seeds. Remove from heat. Allow to cool for 10 minutes until thickened.
Step 4: Transfer jam to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week. The jam will thicken more once refrigerated. You can freeze for up to 3 months.
Tips for Success
- If using frozen strawberries, you will need to cook a bit longer.
- Since strawberries can vary in sweetness, be sure to taste the jam. If it needs a little boost, try adding a touch of honey (NOT for babies) or maple syrup. For a no added sugar option, date syrup or unsweetened applesauce are great alternatives.
- My family loves the texture and subtle pop of whole chia seeds, but for a smoother jam, you can puree in a food processor or blender. The seeds will still be there, just less noticeable.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice—it helps brighten the flavor and balances the jam.
- Mash the berries while simmering for a chunky texture, or blend the jam after it cools for a smoother result.
- Let the jam sit for at least 10–15 minutes after stirring in the chia seeds—it thickens as it cools!
Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, it’s easy to get creative.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for a warm twist.
- Mix strawberries with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a blended berry jam.
- Try a savory spin with a dash of balsamic vinegar or some chopped fresh basil for pairing with cheese boards or crackers.
- Stir in lemon zest for a bright citrusy finish—kids love this in oatmeal!
Serving Suggestions
There are SO many ways to enjoy this homemade sugar-free jam that perhaps you should go ahead and double the recipe ;).
Spread onto:
- Toast – A classic option and perfect for breakfast or snacks. For baby-friendly ideas, check out Best Bread for Babies (and Toast Ideas).
- Sandwiches – Spread it with peanut, almond, or this homemade sunflower seed butter for a quick PB&J. For more inspiration, check out these Easy Sandwich Ideas for Toddlers and Kids.
- 3 Ingredient Banana baby cookies – Use the jam as a soft, naturally sweet topping or filling. Try it for a simple snack little ones love.
- Healthy Banana French Toast – A warm, cozy combo! Spoon the jam on top or swirl it in with yogurt. It also works on top of this baked brioche french toast casserole.
- Favorite Peanut Butter waffles – Top with this jam for a delicious twist.
- Pancakes – Spread or drizzle with jam for a naturally sweet breakfast. Find toddler-friendly recipes in my Healthy Pancakes for Babies and Toddlers.
- Croffles – The perfect crispy, flaky treat topped with jam. Try this Easy Croffle (Croissant Waffle) recipe for a fun twist.
- Baked Apple Oatmeal – Stir in a spoonful of jam for extra fruity sweetness. Try this Easy Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal for a cozy breakfast.
- Eggless banana muffins – Use the jam as a tasty filling or topping.
Stir into:
- Oatmeal – Swirl in jam to naturally sweeten and add flavor. Learn more in my guide on How to Make Baby Oatmeal.
- Plain yogurt – Stir in the jam for natural sweetness and extra flavor. See my recommendations for the Best Yogurt for Babies.
- Flavored yogurt – like 3 minute easy vanilla yogurt
- Overnight Weetabix – Add a spoonful of jam for a fruity boost.
What is the best way to store?
First, cool completely. Then transfer to a glass container or a mason jar and place in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You will notice the jam get thicker once chilled.
You can also double the recipe and freeze extra for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
You sure can! Any juicy fruit will work, like blueberries, raspberries, peaches, cherries, mangoes…all delicious!
Yes, and that’s the beauty of this sugar-free jam. It’s for the whole family. And chia seeds are a wonderful food to incorporate into your baby’s diet.
They contain many nutrients that help support a young child’s rapid brain development and strengthen the immune system – omega-3s, iron, complete protein (contain all 9 essential amino acids), calcium, and soluble fiber to name a few.
And while chia seeds are for battling constipation, you don’t want to go overboard, especially if your child isn’t used to having fiber. Start with a small amount and gradually increase.
Yes, you can add to a blender and blend until smooth. Then add the chia seeds to help thicken. Note that the texture will be looser and the flavor won’t be as deep.
No. Because this jam contains no sugar or added acid beyond lemon juice, it hasn’t been tested for safe shelf storage. It should be refrigerated or frozen.
It may need a bit more time to cool. Chia seeds thicken as they sit, especially after refrigerating. If it’s still thin after cooling, stir in another teaspoon of chia and wait 10 more minutes.
Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!
Sugar Free Strawberry Jam
Ingredients
- 2 cups strawberries, fresh or frozen, (about 320g)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- Honey or maple syrup, start with 2 teaspoons, (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium sauce pan, add strawberries and lemon. Simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries release their juices and turn soft. Mash with a potato masher or back of a fork or spatula, until it reaches desired consistency (smooth or lumpy).
- Stir in chia seeds. Remove from heat. Allow to cool for 10 minutes until thickened.
- Transfer jam to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week. The jam will thicken more once refrigerated. You can freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
- Depending on the sweetness of the berries, you may need to add a little bit of honey or maple syrup. You can also add some date syrup or applesauce, great no added sugar alternatives.
- If you desire a smoother consistency, puree the jam in a food processor or blender. You will still see the seeds but they won’t be as visible.
Can i use something else apart from chia seeds as they upset my tummy….just curious ,
cheers Sophia