This is the easiest and healthiest cherry jam ever! Made with just two ingredients and no added sugar, this recipe virtually makes itself!

This spread is one of my go-to’s on toast and crackers or swirled into creamy oats or a bowl of Greek yogurt. I love topping it on my Jumbo Oatmeal Pancakes, PB and Berry Breakfast Bowl, and Protein Oatmeal Bowl. I also use it to make my Cherry Oatmeal Bake… OMG, so good!

The rich cherry flavor really shines through, and while it’s naturally sweet on its own, you can choose to add a dash of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness before it sets—just give it a taste before placing it in the fridge and make your decision. However, you can certainly add some sweetener after it’s set, too.

I make it with frozen, pitted sweet cherries – I love that they’re available year-round in the grocery store – and the pits are already removed, making the process a breeze. Aside from their great taste, cherries also bring special antioxidants to support brain health, which is a huge bonus. 

The addition of chia seeds helps to thicken the jam and give it that jelly-like texture. But chia seeds also provide a dose of fiber, plant-based protein and omega-3 fats. It’s like a trifecta of goodness!

If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other chia jam flavors featuring blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries!

Spread the love… and the jam!

Elevate your PB&J with this jam and Pumpkin Peanut Butter!

(5 stars) 1 rating

2-Ingredient Cherry Jam

This is the easiest and healthiest cherry jam ever! Made with just two ingredients and no added sugar, this recipe virtually makes itself!
Yield: 20 servings (makes 1 ¼ cups)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
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Ingredients
 

  • 2 cups pitted cherries, fresh or frozen
  • 1 ½ tablespoons chia seeds

Instructions
 

  • Place the cherries in a deep, microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 2-3 minutes, until softened and the natural juices start to release.
  • Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it’ll be hot!) and use a fork or spoon to mash the cherries, breaking up their skins and any larger chunks.
  • Stir in the chia seeds and allow the mixture to set in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, giving it time to thicken and gel. Store your cherry jam in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 10 days. Or you can freeze it for up to 3 months, allowing it to defrost on the counter when you’re ready to enjoy.

Notes

• I love making chia jams with different fruits! My go-to flavors include blueberry, raspberry, strawberry, and cherry. Each has its own level of sweetness, so feel free to adjust by adding a touch of honey or maple syrup if needed (especially for tart fruits like strawberries). You can also add a non-caloric sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit. Just be careful with the amount you add, start with just a tiny amount and you can always increase.
• This recipe can be easily scaled up or down. For 2 cups of fruit, use 1½ tablespoons of chia seeds; for 4 cups of fruit, use 3 tablespoons chia seeds. Just remember to let larger batches set for a longer length of time in the fridge.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, puree the cooked cherries (after microwaving but before adding the chia seeds) in a blender, then stir in the chia seeds and allow it to set.
• Store in the fridge for up to 10 days, or you can freeze for up to 3 months.
• If you’re following a gluten-free diet, always check the ingredient labels, even though these ingredients are naturally gluten-free. The same goes for dairy-free diets—always watch for hidden ingredients in packaged products.
Author: Joy Bauer, MS, RDN, CDN
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Nutrition Information per serving

Serving Size: 1 tablespoonCalories: 15Carbohydrates: 3gProtein: 0gTotal Fat: 0g— Unsaturated Fat: 0g— Saturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 0mgPotassium: 38mgFiber: 1gTotal Sugar: 2g— Natural Sugar: 2g— Added Sugar: 0g
Nutrition information is calculated using a leading industry software. That being said, brands can vary, and there may be slight fluctuations in the numbers.
I’m hoping you loved this recipe! If you made it and want to share feedback, I’d be so grateful to hear from you. Please leave a review below or tag @joybauer on Instagram!