Chia jam is proof that a sweet, satisfying snack doesn’t need refined sugar or store-bought shortcuts. Made with fresh strawberries, a squeeze of lemon, and a touch of basil, it comes together in minutes and turns simple seed crackers into something special.

A naturally sweet homemade strawberry chia jam layered onto crisp seed crackers and finished with fresh basil. This simple snack celebrates fresh fruit with wholesome ingredients, delivering fiber, healthy fats, and bright summer flavor in every bite.

Prep & Nutrition Info

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 20 minutes cooling)
• Servings: 4
• Diet: Plant-Based, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Refined Sugar-Free

Ingredients

For the Strawberry-Basil Chia Jam

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tsp maple syrup (optional)
• 4 fresh basil leaves, finely sliced

For Serving

• 12 seed crackers

Optional Garnish

• Fresh strawberry slices
• Small basil leaves
• Hemp hearts
• Fresh cracked black pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Add the strawberries and lemon juice to a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally and gently pressing the berries with the back of a spoon as they soften.
3. Stir in the lemon zest and maple syrup if using.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the chia seeds.
5. Allow the jam to cool for 15–20 minutes until naturally thickened.
6. Fold in the sliced fresh basil.
7. Spoon the chia jam generously over the seed crackers.
8. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices, small basil leaves, hemp hearts, or a tiny pinch of cracked black pepper if desired.
9. Serve immediately.

Why This Recipe Works

Fresh strawberries provide natural sweetness along with vitamin C and antioxidants, while chia seeds naturally thicken the jam without added pectin or refined sugar. Fresh basil adds an unexpected herbaceous note that complements the fruit beautifully, and crunchy seed crackers contribute fiber and healthy fats for a satisfying snack.

Storage Tips

Store the strawberry-basil chia jam in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Assemble the crackers just before serving to keep them crisp.