Best Oat Milk (+ Coffee Creamer too)

There is no greater disappointment than opening the fridge expecting a quart of Oatly to be staring back and it isn’t. The good news is that making creamy oat milk at home is a lot simpler than you realize.

As long as you have oats and water, you are in business!

Why I love Oat Milk over Dairy

The first time I tried oat milk I was on vacation at Great Wolf Lodge. As someone that sorta only drinks nut milks if I had to (up until that point) I was genuinely surprised by how good it was. Since then, oat milk has come a long way in available brands and types.

And while I do think there are some great grocery store options, I have also learned to make it.

A great dairy-free option to regular milk, you can whip up homemade oat milk anytime you need it. This recipe has been tested and loved ♥ in my kitchen (as someone with Hashimoto’s, my dairy intake is limited) and I’m excited to share it with you and get your feedback.

Homemade Oat Milk Ingredients

Now keep in mind that oat milk by itself is plain and bland. Adding extras like vanilla and maple is what adds the bit of sweetness, but at the end of the day that really is just a personal choice.

• 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 3 cups cold water 
• 2 teaspoons real maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

How to make Oat Milk at Home

Start by adding the 1/2 cup of rolled oats, 3 cups of cold water, 2 teaspoons of real maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt to your blender.

Blend the mixture on high for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. You want to break down the oats without over-blending, which can make the oat milk too thick.

Place two layers of cheesecloth over a large bowl. I find that securing the cloth with a rubber band or clips around the bowl helps to keep things steady. Slowly pour the blended mixture onto the cloth, allowing the liquid to filter into the bowl below. This step is key to achieving that smooth, creamy texture you aim for.

While its straining, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and gives the oat milk time to thicken just right.

The next day, remove the cheesecloth and discard the leftover oat pulp. Remember to shake or stir well before each use, as oat milk tends to settle when stored.

Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator in an air tight container. This helps keep the fridge smells and tastes out of it. I like to buy glass bottles with lids for this and for my homemade juice.

Homemade oat milk will stay fresh for about 4-5 days.

Tips for the Best Oat Milk the First Time:

• Blending Time: Be careful not to over-blend the oats, as this can lead to a thicker, somewhat slimy texture. Stick to 30 seconds to 1 minute for the best results.
• Straining: If you find that your oat milk is still too thick, try straining it a second time through the cheesecloth. This can help remove any excess pulp and give you a smoother consistency.

• Flavor Variations: Feel free to get creative with your oat milk. You can add a pinch of cinnamon, a tablespoon of cocoa powder for chocolate oat milk, or even a splash of almond extract for a nutty twist.
• Using the Oat Pulp: Don’t throw away the oat pulp! It can be used in smoothies, or mixed into your morning oatmeal.

FAQs

Q: Why is my oat milk slimy?

Slimy oat milk can be caused by lots of things. It can result from over-blending the oats, using too little water, or even pressing on the oats too much, releasing starch. Stick to the recommended blending times and ratios, and always strain without too much direct pressure.

What is oat milk typically used for?

Aside from daily uses like cereal or tea, oat milk can be used wherever you do not mind the change in flavor and want milk alternatives.

Try one of my breakfast recipes that go well with homemade oat milk:

• Homemade Acai Bowls: Oat milk can be used as a substitute for coconut or almond milk in acai bowls.
• Oatmeal Crepes recipe: You can use oat milk in crepe batter for a light, dairy-free breakfast option.

Homemade Oat Milk Creamer Ingredients

While you can absolutely use regular oat milk in your coffee (I do), you can also turn your homemade oat milk into a Barista-like coffee creamer.

With just a few recipe changes, this version is richer and thicker, making it perfect for your morning coffee. I love oat milk over regular milk as I feel like my coffee always tastes a tad bit like a cookie.

• 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup cold water (reduced from the original 3 cups to create a thicker consistency)
• Two teaspoons real maple syrup (or to taste)
• One teaspoon vanilla extract (increased from 1/2 teaspoon for added flavor)
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1 tablespoon coconut oil or 1-2 tablespoons of cashew nuts (for extra creaminess)

How to turn Oat Milk Recipe into Creamer

1. Blend the Ingredients: In your blender, combine 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1 cup water, 2 teaspoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/8 teaspoon pinch of salt. If you want an extra creamy texture, add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or 1-2 tablespoons of cashews. Blend on high for 30-45 seconds until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Strain the Mixture: Strain the mixture using a fine mesh sieve, nut milk bag, or cheesecloth to remove any oat pulp.
3. Store and Use: Pour your creamer into a jar and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep for 4-5 days. Shake well before each use, as the ingredients may separate when its sitting.

Tips for Creamer Variations:

• Flavored Creamer: Add cinnamon, cocoa powder, or even almond extract to get specific with flavor.
• Sweeter Creamer: Add more maple syrup or honey for a sweeter creamer.