3 ingredients and 10 minutes are all you need to make this sugar-free strawberry jam. It tastes like real fruit and is perfectly thick without pectin and is the perfect jam for babies and toddlers!
No Added Sugar Jam
I've always loved PB&J sandwiches, but becoming a mom to two littles has really elevated my appreciation for such a quick and easy breakfast, lunch, or even dinner!
Store-bought jams are so convenient, and I always try to look for ones with the smallest amounts of added sugars. But oftentimes I will make this sugar-free strawberry jam because it's so easy to whip up and the kids love it!
The secret ingredient is the chia seeds. When combined with liquid, they form a gel-like consistency and help thicken any dish, like these make-ahead chia puddings.
I hope this recipe will become a staple at your house too ;). It's seriously the perfect first jam for babies and toddlers!
Have more strawberries that need to be used up quick? Try this 2 ingredient homemade strawberry juice or homemade healthy gummies!
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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.
How to make strawberry chia jam
- Add strawberries and lemon juice
- Mash with a potato masher until it reaches desired texture. It can be smooth or lumpy, if you like chunks of strawberries inside your jam.
- Stir in chia seeds. Remove from heat. Allow to cool for 10 minutes until thickened.
Tips for Success
- If using frozen strawberries, you will need to cook a bit longer.
- Since the flavor of strawberries varies a lot, taste the jam. 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.
- My family loves the texture and the pop you get from the whole chia seeds. However, 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.
Serving Suggestions
There are SO many ways to enjoy this sugar-free homemade jam that perhaps you should go ahead and double the recipe ;).
Spread onto:
- Toast
- Sandwiches
- Cookies
- Banana French Toast
- Waffles
- Pancakes
- Croffles
- Baked oatmeal
- Eggles banana muffins
Stir into:
- Oatmeal
- Lentils (may sound strange but give it a try! Your child may love it, like mine.)
- Plain yogurt
- Flavored yogurt - like 3 minute vanilla yogurt
- Overnight Weetabix
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.Â
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.
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.
Erica says
Hi! Love this! Will it still thicken properly if I put straight into the freezer after cooling, or do I need to put in the fridge for a few days before freezing? Thanks!
Min says
You definitely want to refrigerate first!
Julia says
I just made this to put on toast for my 15 month old daughter and her eyes lit up when she tried it! I used frozen strawberries and it was super easy.
Min says
So easy right? Thanks for sharing!
Chie says
Thanks for an easy, healthy, and delicious alternative to the regular jam. My whole family loved it!
Min says
I'm so glad you guys enjoyed this jam!!
Ayumi says
Can I substitute lemon with lime? Or can it go without a lemon all together? Thanks!
Min says
Hi! You can substitute with lime. You can skip it although I prefer adding.
Morv says
Hi, would it be the same weight for other fruits? Thanks!
Min says
The weight will differ depending on the fruit but if you have a measuring cup, I would use 1 cup