Cranberry Orange Chia Jam comes together in minutes and is full of fresh, tangy cranberries and refreshing citrus flavor. Spread on toast, dollop on pancakes, or mix into plain yogurt or oatmeal for a low-sugar alternative to store-bought jams and jellies.
Does the word “cranberry” evoke memories of Thanksgiving (specifically, those infamous jellied cranberry molds that resemble the shape of a metal can)?
If so, you’re not alone. Cranberries are a staple on many Thanksgiving tables – mine included. But, for some reason, these flavorful tart berries tend to get the cold shoulder the other 364 days of the year.
What do you say we change that, shall we?
This Cranberry Orange Chia Jam is an extension of the cranberry sauce that I made for Thanksgiving this year… only a little more “jammy”. Because, as delicious as homemade cranberry sauce is on its own, my favorite way to enjoy it is definitely as a condiment. In the days following Thanksgiving, I found myself mixing leftovers into yogurt, using it as a sandwich spread, and even swirling it into baked goods. This got me thinking… why not turn cranberries into a wholesome, nutritious jam that I could enjoy all year-round?!
And so, this Cranberry Orange Chia Jam was born.
This recipe is for anyone who ever dreamt of making homemade jam, but was too intimidated by the intricate canning process for their dreams to ever fully come to fruition (fruit pun totally intended). This chia jam comes together in minutes, requires only a handful of ingredients, and does not involve any crazy sterilization techniques or special equipment. All you need is 5 simple, wholesome ingredients, a saucepan and 10 minutes. Now that’s my jam.
Chia seeds are the secret weapon in this recipe and what ultimately catalyzes the magical transformation from cranberry sauce to cranberry jam. I’ve professed my love for these little seeds on here before, but if you think that’s going to stop me from bragging about them now, then think again. Chia seeds are bursting with omega-3 fatty acids (healthy fats that may help to reduce inflammation and improve cognitive function), fiber (which increases satiety, improves digestion and helps to reduce cholesterol), and antioxidants (which help protect the body from the damage of harmful molecules called “free radicals”). Oh, and if that’s not enough, they’re also a rich source of many important minerals, including calcium, iron, potassium and magnesium. Pretty impressive, huh?
Pair that with all of the nutritional benefits of cranberries (anti-inflammatory properties, healthy urinary tract function, and cardiovascular health just to name a few) and you’ve got yourself one heck of a healthy spread.
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But aside from all that, one of my absolute favorite parts of making my own jam is being able to control the ingredients that go into it. While most store-bought jams and jellies contain upwards of 15 grams (nearly 4 teaspoons!!) of sugar per 2 tablespoons, this jam contains less than half that amount (an estimated 6 g per 2 tbsp based on my calculations). If you ask me, I’d say that’s a significant improvement. After all, there’s no reason for there to be more added sugar in your jam than there is fruit.
Now, as the great Beyonce once said…
I don’t think you’re for this jelly. (errr, jam?)
- 2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp water
- juice and zest of 1 orange*
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 2-3 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/8 tsp cinnamon
- If using fresh cranberries, rinse well and drain.
- Add cranberries and water to a medium sauce pan, cover, and place over medium heat. Cook until cranberries begin to bubble and pop, about 10 minutes (keep a close eye on them to ensure that they don't overflow).
- Remove from heat and mash remaining cranberries using a potato masher or the back of a spoon.
- Stir in remaining ingredients.
- Transfer jam to glass container (with an airtight lid) and allow to cool before placing in refrigerator.
- To get the most juice from your orange, use your palm to roll the orange against the counter before slicing in half and squeezing out the juice.
- Makes about 1 cup. Jam may be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
This looks incredible! I love making homemade jams and jellies around the holidays! Love the combo of orange and cranberry here.
Thank you so much Angela! Jams and jellies are perfect for the holidays!
OMG this looks incredible!! and such oretty pictures
Thanks so much Abbey!
That looks delicious! Oh, the color in those amazing photos!
Thanks, Kristin! Isn’t the color just incredible?! I can’t get over how vibrant the cranberries are!
Love this! I love jam and try not to eat too much because of the sugar content. Great alternative!
Same! The first ingredient in most store-bought jams is sugar.. no thanks! I’ll just make my own from now on since it’s so easy 🙂
I LOVE cranberries and the combination of orange. This chia jam is on my must make list!
Thanks, Sarah! Let me know if you make it!
You had me at This recipe is for anyone who ever dreamt of making homemade jam, but was too intimidated by the intricate canning process for their dreams to ever fully come to fruition! Plus I love cranberries and always buy too many around the holidays!
Haha I have always wanted to make homemade jam, but I’m terrified of the whole canning process. Chia seeds are the perfect solution! Problem solved 🙂
Chia jam must be one of the easiest treats around! Plus it’s so good for you! Double win!
Agreed! So wholesome, yummy, and easy. Oh and not to mention super customizable.. doesn’t get much better than that!
Ooh that looks super easy and yummy!
Thank you! So easy.. only takes 10 minutes!
The chia seeds makes it look like strawberries instead of cranberries in the jam.
That’s what I was thinking too! I love that the seeds are visible, but sorry if the photo was deceiving!
This looks awesome! It’s very similar to a cranberry sauce I make for Thanksgiving. The only thing different is the chia seeds! I guess that’s what makes it more of a jam! Looks great!
Thank you! It was born from my cranberry sauce, so it’s definitely similar.. only a little more jammy 🙂
This looks amazing and perfect this time of year. I love adding chia seeds to anything for a healthy boost.
Thank you! And so do I.. can’t get enough of those little seeds!
I love making chia jam! Really loving your festive flavor combo here! <3
Thanks, Katie! Chia jam is my jam 🙂
That looks so good and healthy. I am going to give it a try.
Thanks Roxana! Can’t wait to hear what you think!
I absolutely love cranberries + jam so definitly going to try this! Pinning now for later 🙂
Yay let me know what you think!
Kara this flavor combination sounds wonderful.
Thanks so much Jill!
When I got fresh cranberries in my CSA basket a couple of months ago I popped them in the freezer while I decided what to do with them. I think I just decided!
So glad to hear it! Can’t wait to hear what you think!