How to Make Oat Milk: A Simple & Delicious DIY Recipe

Oat milk is an increasingly popular plant-based milk alternative, offering a creamy, dairy-free option that’s both nutritious and easy to make.

A while ago, I made the switch from traditional dairy milk to plant-based milk in my diet, and I haven’t looked back since. I’m not even sure how long it’s been at this point — it’s been a while! 

The truth is, I feel so much better physically when I choose plant milk, and that alone is a good reason to make the change. 

But as I’ve learned more about the benefits of plant-based milks, I’ve discovered there are plenty of other reasons to choose alternatives to cow’s milk, like creamy oat milk.

If you’ve been considering switching from dairy milk or store-bought plant milks, like almond milk or soy milk, you’re in the right place. 

I’m going to share an easy recipe with you, for a delicious oat milk that you’re going to love having in your kitchen.

Oat Milk vs. Cow’s Milk: Why Choose Plant Based Milks?

Switching to oat milk or other plant-based milk alternatives can have a positive impact on your health and the environment.

Oat milk, made from simple ingredients like rolled oats and cold water, is naturally dairy-free and offers numerous benefits.

Unlike cow’s milk, oat milk is rich in soluble fiber, which may support digestion and help you feel full longer.

This makes it a great option for those looking to support their weight loss efforts. Oat milk is a good source of vitamins and minerals and supports a balanced diet.

Furthermore, oat milk is an environmentally friendly choice compared to animal-based dairy. It requires fewer resources to produce and is better for the planet — making it a smart decision for sustainability.

On the other hand, cow’s milk contains naturally occuring hormones that can contribute to inflammation and other health issues.

Plus, the treatment of dairy cows in the food industry raises ethical concerns that many people prefer to avoid. 

With the rise of oat milk and other plant-based milks, there’s never been a better time to make the switch.

How Does Oat Milk Taste?

One of the main reasons people love oat milk is its deliciously creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor.

If you’ve ever tried commercial oat milk, you know it has a smooth consistency that makes it ideal for a variety of uses, from baking to lattes. 

But did you know that making your own oat milk results in an even creamier consistency, with less of the “slimy” texture that some store-bought versions have?

When making your own homemade oat milk, you can adjust the flavor by adding a touch of maple syrup or vanilla extract for extra sweetness. You’ll get the best results with a high-speed blender, which helps break down the oats and creates a smooth, creamy milk. 

Whether you use it in your coffee, cereal, or smoothies, homemade oat milk will quickly become your favorite dairy-free beverage.

Is It Cheaper To Make Your Own Plant Milk?

One of the biggest reasons to start making oat milk at home is the cost. While store-bought oat milk can be expensive, especially if you prefer organic or gluten-free options, homemade oat milk is incredibly affordable.

A pound of oats is much cheaper than cashew milk or almond milk. For instance, while you might pay around $8 for a pound of raw cashews, whole rolled oats usually cost less than $1 per pound at your local grocery store. 

Not to mention, oats are lightweight, so you get more for your money. Bottom line, when it comes to the wallet, homemade oat milk wins!

Making your own oat milk is not only budget-friendly but also environmentally conscious, as it produces less waste compared to buying packaged plant-based milks.

Can Oat Milk Go Bad?

Yes, homemade oat milk can go bad. But here’s the good news: This is simply a sign of the fresh, preservative-free nature of your homemade oat milk. 

Unlike commercial oat milk, which is full of preservatives like xanthan gum to extend its shelf life, homemade oat milk has a shorter shelf life — usually 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator.

You may notice that oat milk can separate over time, but this isn’t a sign of spoilage. A quick shake is all it takes to restore the creamy consistency. 

When homemade oat milk goes bad, you’ll notice a rancid smell, indicating it’s time to toss it out. So, while oat milk doesn’t last as long as store-bought versions, the trade-off is worth it for a fresh, natural drink.

If you make it in small batches you’ll have no trouble using it all before it spoils. And it doesn’t take a long time to make, so it can be fit into the average schedule pretty easily.

How To Use Plant Milk In Recipes

One of the best things about plant-based milks, like oat milk, is their versatility in the kitchen.

You can use oat milk as a one-to-one substitute for dairy milk in almost any recipe, whether you’re baking, cooking, or enjoying a beverage.

Oat milk works wonderfully in many recipes, including overnight oats, smoothies, and even savory dishes like mashed potatoes. It’s great in soups and cream-based sauces too. 

You can also use it to make creamy iced coffee, hot chocolate, or your favorite plant-based latte.

And there are several recipes on the blog for great healthy desserts that call for plant milk if you want to give one, or more, of them a try; chocolate avocado pudding, whole food plant based chocolate peanut butter cake, and blueberry pancake cupcakes.

The best part? It’s a suitable dairy-free milk for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

How Oat Milk Is Made: A Simple Overview

Making your own oat milk is incredibly easy and can be done in just a few simple steps.

Here’s a quick outline of how to make homemade oat milk:

Blend the Ingredients: Start by placing whole rolled oats and cold water into a high-speed blender. You can also add a sweetener, like maple syrup, and a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor, though these are optional. I like to add a little pinch of salt too.

Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture, in a food processor, on low speed for about 30-60 seconds until the oats are fully broken down and the mixture is smooth.

Strain the Milk: After blending, strain the oat milk through a fine mesh sieve, nut milk bag, or fine mesh strainer to extract as much liquid as possible from the oat pulp.

Store and Enjoy: Pour the strained oat milk into a clean bottle or jar and store it in the fridge. Be sure to shake it before each use, as it may naturally separate over time.

This method is quick and simple, and it allows you to enjoy fresh, homemade oat milk whenever you like. For the exact measurements, check out the full recipe card at the bottom of the post!

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