If you have ever wanted a fresh, wholesome alternative to store-bought dairy or nut milks, then this Creamy Homemade Oat Milk Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s not only incredibly simple to whip up but also delightfully smooth and subtly sweet, perfect for everything from your morning coffee to baking and smoothies. Plus, by making it yourself, you control every ingredient, ensuring a pure, creamy oat milk that tastes far superior to anything pre-packaged.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Creamy Homemade Oat Milk Recipe is a breeze because it relies on just a few essential ingredients, each playing a key role in creating that rich, silky texture and naturally sweet flavor you’ll love. Keep these on hand for a quick and refreshing homemade treat anytime.
- Old-fashioned oats: The base of your milk; they provide creamy body and a mild, nutty flavor if blended just right.
- Ice water: Keeps the oats cool while blending, which helps maintain the fresh taste and smooth texture.
- Kosher salt: Just a pinch to balance flavors and bring out the oats’ natural sweetness.
- Pure maple syrup: Adds a gentle sweet note, making the milk perfectly inviting without overpowering.
- Pure vanilla extract: A hint of warm vanilla enhances the oat milk’s depth and aroma.
How to Make Creamy Homemade Oat Milk Recipe
Step 1: Blend the Base
Start by placing your old-fashioned oats, ice water, and a small pinch of kosher salt into a large blender. Blend this mixture for about 30 seconds, which is just enough time to soften the oats and combine the ingredients without over-blending and risking a slimy texture. This step is crucial for creating that signature smoothness in your oat milk.
Step 2: Sweeten and Flavor
Next, add the pure maple syrup and the vanilla extract to the blender. These two ingredients bring a subtle sweetness and lovely aromatic notes to the milk. Blend again for a quick 10 to 15 seconds just to incorporate everything evenly without over-mixing, which could affect the texture.
Step 3: Strain for Silky Smoothness
Pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl. This step removes the oat pulp, leaving behind that luscious, creamy liquid. For an extra smooth finish, strain the liquid a second time through the sieve into your mason jar or pitcher. Discard or compost the leftover pulp, or save it for your next batch of baking or smoothies.
Step 4: Store or Use Immediately
Your Creamy Homemade Oat Milk Recipe is now ready to enjoy! Pour it straight into your coffee, cereal, or recipes, or seal the container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 5 days.
How to Serve Creamy Homemade Oat Milk Recipe
Garnishes
Though oat milk is delicious on its own, adding a few simple garnishes can elevate its appeal. Try sprinkling a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cocoa powder on top. These small touches bring warmth and extra flavor, perfect for sipping on a cool morning or cozy evening.
Side Dishes
Creamy oat milk pairs beautifully with a range of side dishes. Think blueberry pancakes drizzled with maple syrup, freshly baked banana bread, or a bowl of granola with fresh fruit. Its mild sweetness and creamy texture make it a versatile companion to almost any breakfast or snack.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your homemade oat milk in clear glass bottles with a cute straw for casual gatherings or kids’ lunches. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays and pop cubes into smoothies for a creamy consistency without diluting the flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Always keep your homemade oat milk refrigerated in a tightly sealed container. It will maintain its freshness and creamy flavor for up to 5 days. Give it a gentle shake before using, as natural separation may occur but does not affect the taste.
Freezing
Freezing homemade oat milk isn’t generally recommended because it can alter the texture, making it grainy or watery once thawed. However, if you wish to freeze it, do so in ice cube trays to use later in smoothies or cold beverages where texture changes are less noticeable.
Reheating
If you prefer your oat milk warm, gently heat it on the stove or in the microwave. Avoid boiling as high heat can cause the milk to separate. Warm it slowly while stirring for the best creamy, comforting experience.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
While you can use quick oats, old-fashioned oats give you a better texture and creaminess without the oat milk turning slimy. Quick oats tend to blend too fine and can affect the mouthfeel negatively.
Do I need to soak the oats before blending?
For this recipe, soaking isn’t necessary because using ice water keeps the oats cool and prevents sliminess. If you prefer, a quick rinse of the oats can also help reduce any starchiness.
Is it possible to make flavored oat milk?
Absolutely! Beyond vanilla and maple, try adding cinnamon, cocoa powder, or even a touch of almond extract to customize your oat milk flavor to your liking.
How long does homemade oat milk last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, your Creamy Homemade Oat Milk Recipe will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Always give it a good shake before each use.
Can I use a nut milk bag to strain the oat milk?
You can, but be careful: oat milk can be thick and may clog a nut milk bag, making it harder to strain. A fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth usually works better for smoother straining.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about making your own Creamy Homemade Oat Milk Recipe from scratch. Not only does it allow you to enjoy a fresh and wholesome beverage, but it also opens the door to endless customization and culinary creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned plant-based milk fan or just curious to try something new, this recipe is a delicious, easy way to bring a little extra joy to your kitchen. Give it a go and savor the creamy goodness you’ve crafted with your own hands!
Print
Creamy Homemade Oat Milk Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6.6 cups (approximately 1.5 liters)
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Learn how to make smooth, creamy oat milk at home with just a few simple ingredients. This easy recipe requires blending oats with ice water, sweetened lightly with maple syrup and flavored with vanilla extract. Perfect as a dairy-free milk alternative for breakfasts, smoothies, or baking.
Ingredients
Oat Milk Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats (200 grams)
- 6 cups ice water (1,362 grams)
- â…› teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (39 grams, plus more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams, plus more to taste)
Instructions
- Blend oats and water: Place the oats, ice water, and kosher salt in a large blender. Blend on high for 30 seconds to break down the oats and combine the ingredients.
- Add sweetener and vanilla: Add the maple syrup and vanilla extract to the blender. Blend again for 10 to 15 seconds to fully incorporate the flavors into the oat mixture.
- Strain oat milk: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl to separate the oat pulp from the liquid. Discard the pulp. For an extra smooth texture, strain the milk a second time into a mason jar or pitcher.
- Store or serve: Use the oat milk immediately in your favorite recipes or beverages, or seal the container and refrigerate. The oat milk will keep fresh for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Use old-fashioned oats for best texture; quick oats can make the milk slimy.
- Do not soak oats prior to blending to avoid sliminess.
- If desired, adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup or omit for unsweetened oat milk.
- Shake well before each use as homemade oat milk can naturally separate.
- Pulp can be used in baking or smoothies to reduce waste.
