MIXED BERRY CHIA JAM CUPS
These Mixed Berry Chia Jam Cups deliver a burst of summer fruit flavour in a perfectly portable portion. These soft and juicy berries simmer gently with a squeeze of zesty lemon and just enough maple syrup to balance the tartness, before thickening into a jam-like consistency with chia seeds. Each spoonful of mixed berry chia jam cups offers a delightful contrast of vibrant berry notes and subtle sweetness, with the chia providing a satisfying gel texture and extra fibre. These mixed berry chia jam cups are naturally vegan, gluten-free and free from refined sugar. They make an ideal topping for yoghurt, pancakes, oatmeal or enjoyed straight from the cup as a quick snack. These chia jam cups are ready in ten minutes and easily customised. These jam cups prove that simple ingredients can create a refined and healthful treat.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Breakfast
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No‑Cook, Prepared in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Picnic, Potluck
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Vegetarian, Wheat / Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free, Low Fat, Low/No Sugar, Organic, Quick & Easy, Raw, Kid Friendly
DISH TYPE
Condiment / Spread
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Mixed Berry Chia Jam Cups:
- ¼ cup mixed berries (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 97.6 Kilocalories
- Fat: 3.8 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.4 grams
- Carbohydrate: 15.2 grams
- Sugar: 7.8 grams
- Sodium: 3.1 milligrams
- Fibre: 5.0 grams
- Protein: 2.3 grams
- Cholesterol: 0.0 milligrams
- Vitamin D: 0.0 micrograms
- Calcium: 84.9 milligrams
- Iron: 1.0 milligram
- Potassium: 96.5 milligrams
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Mixed Berry Chia Jam Cups:
- Macerate The Berries: Place ¼ cup mixed berries in a small bowl. Add 1 teaspoon lemon juice and 1 teaspoon maple syrup. Stir gently and let it rest for two minutes so the berries release their juices and the flavours meld.
- Mash Slightly: Use a fork or small potato masher to crush the berries lightly. Aim for a mix of chunky fruit and juice, as this creates a lovely textured jam.
- Add Chia Seeds: Stir in 1 tablespoon chia seeds until fully incorporated. The seeds will absorb liquid and thicken the mixture into a jam-like consistency.
- Rest To Thicken: Cover the bowl and let it rest at room temperature for five minutes. Then stir again to break up any clumps and ensure even thickening.
- Chill: Transfer the mixture into a small serving cup or jar. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or until the chia jam sets and achieves a spreadable texture.
- Serve: Use immediately with a topping for yoghurt, toast, pancakes or enjoy straight from the cup as a quick snack.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
0 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Mixed Berry Chia Jam Cups:
- Use Ripe Berries: Choose sweet and ripe berries for maximum natural flavour and minimal additional sweetener.
- Even Crushing: Mash gently because over-mashing creates overly liquid jam, while under-mashing leaves large chunks.
- Stir Twice: An initial stir after macerating and another after five minutes of rest prevents chia clumps and ensures uniform texture.
- Maple Syrup Alternatives: Agave or coconut nectar work well if you prefer a different natural sweetener.
- Single‑Serve Ease: Prepare jam cups in small jars with lids for grab-and-go breakfasts.
- Balance Tartness: Taste before chilling and add an extra drop of maple syrup or lemon juice to suit your preference.
- Patience Pays Off: Allow full chilling time for the chia seeds to swell and create a spoonable jam.
- Visual Appeal: Use clear glass cups to showcase the vibrant berry colour and inviting texture.
VARIATIONS
- Citrus Twist: Stir in ½ teaspoon orange or lime zest with the lemon juice for an extra citrus aroma.
- Berry Blend: Swap or combine berries like blueberries, raspberries, strawberries or blackberries for varied flavour profiles.
- Herbal Note: Add ½ teaspoon chopped fresh mint or basil for a refreshing herbal accent.
- Spiced Jam: Mix in a pinch of ground cinnamon or ginger for warming spice.
- Tropical Flair: Fold in 1 tablespoon diced mango or pineapple before chilling for a tropical touch.
- Protein Boost: Stir in 1 teaspoon plant-based protein powder for extra nutrition.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Fridge: Store jam cups covered in an airtight container for up to three days. Stir before using if the liquid separates.
- Freezer: Freeze jam in small silicone moulds, once frozen solid, transfer to a sealed bag and store for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.