Citric Acid Free Mixed Berry Chia Jam
Homemade jam is one of those kitchen projects that feels far more impressive than the effort it actually requires, and this berry version is no exception. Store-bought jams and preserves are notorious for sneaking in citric acid as a preservative or flavor enhancer, making the label-reading process exhausting for anyone avoiding it. Here, fresh lemon juice does the brightening work naturally, so you get that gentle tartness without any synthetic additives. Mixed berries bring a deep, jewel-toned color and a flavor that's equal parts sweet and tangy, while a touch of honey and cinnamon round everything out beautifully. The real magic comes from the chia seeds, which thicken the jam as it cools without any pectin or processed gelling agents — just stir them in and let time do the work. You can keep the texture rustic and chunky or mash it smooth depending on your mood, making this one of the most adaptable spreads you'll ever put in a jar. Slather it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or spoon it straight from the fridge — no judgment here.
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Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen — blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 tbsp chia seeds
Instructions
- 1
Combine the berries, honey, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the berries release their juices and begin to break down, about 8–10 minutes.
- 2
Use the back of a spoon or spatula to gently mash the berries to your preferred texture — leave some chunks for a rustic jam or mash thoroughly for a smoother spread.
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