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Fresh Black Raspberry Vanilla Jam Recipe with Chia Seeds Easy Homemade Spread

fresh black raspberry vanilla jam - featured image

A quick and easy homemade jam combining fresh black raspberries, vanilla, and chia seeds as a natural thickener. This healthy spread is perfect for busy mornings and uses simple pantry ingredients without added pectin or excessive sugar.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (300 grams) fresh black raspberries (ripe but firm; frozen works in a pinch)
  • 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds (whole, organic preferred)
  • 23 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust sweetness to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 23 tablespoons water (optional, to loosen fruit during cooking)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and prepare the fruit: Gently wash 2 cups (300 g) of fresh black raspberries and let them drain. If using frozen, thaw completely and drain excess water.
  2. Combine raspberries and sweetener: Place raspberries in the saucepan with 2-3 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Add vanilla: Scrape the seeds from 1 vanilla bean and add both seeds and pod to the pan. If using extract, wait to add it later.
  4. Cook the mixture: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. After about 5 minutes, the raspberries will begin to break down and release their juices. If the mixture looks too thick or dry, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of water.
  5. Mash the fruit: Use a potato masher or back of spoon to lightly crush the berries, creating a chunky but spreadable texture.
  6. Add lemon juice: Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to balance the sweetness and brighten the flavor.
  7. Simmer and thicken: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 10-15 minutes. Stir often to prevent sticking and watch as the jam thickens.
  8. Remove vanilla pod and add chia seeds: Take out the vanilla bean pod and stir in 2 tablespoons of chia seeds. These will absorb liquid and help the jam set as it cools.
  9. Cool and jar: After another 5 minutes, remove the pan from heat. Let the jam cool slightly before transferring to sterilized glass jars. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
  10. Refrigerate: Cover the jars and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. The jam keeps well in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Notes

For a smoother jam, strain the cooked fruit before adding chia seeds. Stir frequently during simmering to prevent burning. Use moderate heat to preserve fresh raspberry flavor and vanilla aroma. Chia seeds thicken gradually, so allow time for setting. Swap honey with maple syrup or agave for a vegan version. Store jam in airtight jars refrigerated up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition

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