I love making homemade jams, especially when they’re simple, healthy, and bursting with natural flavors. This Low Sugar Blueberry Jam is one of my favorites because it’s naturally sweetened with honey and thickened with chia seeds, eliminating the need for pectin or excessive sugar. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, mixing into yogurt, or using as a topping for pancakes.
A Naturally Sweet and Nutritious Blueberry Jam
Unlike traditional jams loaded with sugar, this recipe lets the natural sweetness of blueberries shine. The honey adds just a touch of sweetness without overpowering the fresh, fruity taste. Chia seeds not only help thicken the jam but also provide a boost of fiber, omega-3s, and antioxidants.
Blueberries are known for their high antioxidant content, making this jam both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a healthier jam option or simply want to enjoy a homemade spread, this low-sugar blueberry jam is an excellent choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No refined sugar – Honey provides natural sweetness.
- Easy to make – Just a few ingredients and minimal effort required.
- Nutrient-packed – Chia seeds add fiber, while blueberries offer antioxidants.
- Perfect for meal prep – Keeps well in the fridge and can be enjoyed in various ways.
Ingredients for Low Sugar Blueberry Jam
To make this healthy and delicious jam, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Each one plays an important role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and natural sweetness.
- Blueberries (4 cups) – Fresh blueberries provide natural sweetness and a deep, rich color. They’re packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making this jam both tasty and nutritious.
- Honey (¼ cup) – A natural sweetener that enhances the fruit’s natural sugars without overpowering them. You can adjust the amount to your preference.
- Chia Seeds (2 tablespoons) – These tiny seeds help thicken the jam naturally while adding fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – Brightens the flavor and adds a slight tartness to balance the sweetness. It also helps preserve the jam’s freshness.
How to Make Low Sugar Blueberry Jam
This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious, homemade jam that’s healthier than store-bought options.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash the blueberries thoroughly and remove any stems. Gather the remaining ingredients, measuring them out in advance for a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Blueberries
In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh blueberries, honey, and lemon juice. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally as the mixture heats up.
Step 3: Simmer the Mixture
Once the blueberries start to simmer, reduce the heat to low and let them cook for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally, mashing some of the blueberries with a spoon or potato masher to help release their natural juices. The mixture should begin to break down and thicken slightly.
Step 4: Add the Chia Seeds
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chia seeds. These will help absorb the liquid and create a naturally thickened jam. Stir well to evenly distribute the seeds.
Step 5: Let the Jam Cool
Allow the jam to cool for 10-15 minutes. During this time, the chia seeds will continue to absorb moisture, thickening the mixture into a jam-like consistency.
Step 6: Transfer to Jars
Pour the jam into clean, sterilized jars. Let it cool completely before sealing the jars.
Step 7: Store and Enjoy
Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy it on toast, yogurt, pancakes, or even as a topping for oatmeal.
How Long to Cook Blueberry Jam
The cooking time for this low sugar blueberry jam is relatively short compared to traditional jams. Since we’re not using pectin, the jam thickens naturally with chia seeds and gentle simmering. Here’s a breakdown of how long to cook each step:
- Simmering the blueberries – 10 to 15 minutes on low heat. This allows the fruit to break down and release its natural juices. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Cooling with chia seeds – 10 to 15 minutes off the heat. The chia seeds absorb liquid and help thicken the jam naturally.
You’ll know the jam is ready when it has a slightly thick consistency and coats the back of a spoon. Remember, the jam will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks a bit runny right after cooking.
How to Store Low Sugar Blueberry Jam
Proper storage ensures your jam stays fresh and flavorful. Here’s how to store it correctly:
- Refrigerator: Store the jam in an airtight container or sterilized glass jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Always use a clean spoon to scoop out jam to prevent contamination.
- Freezer: If you want to extend the shelf life, store the jam in freezer-safe jars or containers. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Tips for the Best Blueberry Jam
Making homemade jam is easy, but these tips will help you achieve the best results:
- Use ripe blueberries – The riper the fruit, the sweeter the jam. If your blueberries are tart, you may want to add a bit more honey.
- Mash to your preference – For a chunkier jam, lightly mash the berries while cooking. For a smoother texture, blend briefly before adding chia seeds.
- Adjust sweetness – Taste the mixture before adding honey. If your blueberries are very sweet, reduce the honey slightly.
- Let it sit overnight – If possible, let the jam rest in the fridge for a few hours or overnight before using. This helps the flavors develop fully.
- Sterilize jars properly – To extend shelf life, sterilize jars by boiling them for 10 minutes before filling them with jam.
Low Sugar Blueberry Jam: A Healthier Homemade Delight
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 1½ cups 1x
Description
This Low Sugar Blueberry Jam is a simple, healthy, and naturally sweetened spread that’s perfect for toast, yogurt, pancakes, and more. Made with just four ingredients, this jam is free from refined sugar and thickened naturally with chia seeds. Enjoy a delicious homemade jam that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh blueberries 🫐
- ¼ cup honey 🍯
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds 🌱
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice 🍋
Instructions
- Prepare the blueberries – Wash and remove stems if necessary.
- Cook the fruit – In a medium saucepan, combine blueberries, honey, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture comes to a simmer.
- Simmer the jam – Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring and mashing some blueberries to release their juices.
- Add chia seeds – Remove from heat and stir in chia seeds. Mix well to distribute evenly.
- Cool and thicken – Let the jam cool for 10-15 minutes. The chia seeds will absorb liquid and naturally thicken the jam.
- Store in jars – Transfer to sterilized jars, let cool completely, and seal the lids.
- Refrigerate and enjoy – Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
- For a smoother jam, blend the mixture before adding chia seeds.
- For a thicker consistency, let the jam sit longer in the fridge or add an extra ½ tablespoon of chia seeds.
- For a sugar-free option, replace honey with stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- Frozen blueberries can be used instead of fresh. Just cook a few minutes longer.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes! Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh ones. Simply add them directly to the saucepan and cook as instructed. You may need to simmer them for a few extra minutes since they release more liquid.
2. How can I make the jam thicker?
Chia seeds naturally thicken the jam as they absorb liquid, but if you want an even thicker consistency, you can:
- Let the jam sit longer in the refrigerator.
- Add an extra ½ tablespoon of chia seeds if the consistency is too thin.
- Simmer the jam for a few more minutes to allow more liquid to evaporate.
3. Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different sweetener, try:
- Maple syrup for a slightly caramel-like sweetness.
- Agave syrup as a vegan-friendly option.
- Stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a sugar-free alternative. Just adjust the amount based on taste preference.
4. How long does this jam last?
Since this jam doesn’t contain preservatives, it should be stored properly:
- In the refrigerator – Up to two weeks in an airtight container.
- In the freezer – Up to three months in a freezer-safe container.
For longer storage, you can freeze the jam in small portions and thaw only what you need.
This easy homemade blueberry jam is a delicious, healthy alternative to store-bought versions, and it’s so simple to make!