Creamy Homemade Oat Milk

My friend Magara invited a few of us over for dinner and served homemade oat milk shots for dessert. How creative, right? I couldn’t believe the warm, oat-y taste! The oat milk was rich and creamy with the perfect balance of sweetness. I enjoyed it so much (and can’t stop talking about it) that Magara gifted me a nut milk bag so I can start making my own oat milk.

One challenge with oat milk is a potentially gluey texture. It’s the starch in oats that can cause this because starch is not soluble in water. But do not fret–follow Magara’s pro tips and all will go smoothly: Use ice-cold water. Don’t soak the oats. Don’t over-blend. Don’t over-strain the oat milk in the muslin bag.

Here’s the recipe:

DIY Oat Milk

Equipment:
Blender
Nut milk bag
Jar with lid

Ingredients:
1 cup whole rolled oats
3-4 cups ice cold water (3 cups will make for thicker milk)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or other organic sweetener (experiment with the amount based on your sweetness preference)
¼ tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon coconut oil (Magara’s secret ingredient…not anymore, whoops)

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender and pulse for 30-45 seconds. Over a large mixing bowl with a pouring spout, carefully pour the mixture into the nut milk bag to separate the pulp. Gently squeeze the liquid through. Transfer the oat milk from the bowl into a jar and lid tightly. Refrigerate and store for up to five days. Note: separation is totally normal with oat and other plant-based milks, shake before use. Clean the nut milk bag with light dish soap right away to prevent the cloth from plugging up.

My oat milk didn’t taste as creamy and delicious as Magara’s. I worked with four cups, and next go-around I will try three cups to create more thickness. I will say, though, I’m very happy with my first attempt, and I’m all in to keep practicing.

Making homemade oat milk is much more affordable than store-bought. And it’s fun to make – experiment with different sweeteners such as nutmeg, chocolate, honey, or maple syrup. Be cute and gift jars with ribbons to your friends. Serve in a fun way like dessert shots topped with cinnamon. Make healthy smoothies. Use with granola cereal, serve with coffee at brunch, or straight up!

Magara Holton is not only an expert oat milk-maker, she is the first place winner of the 2022 best pie competition sponsored by The Rockaway Hotel.

Follow me for the everyday in the kitchen on Instagram: @theglorifiedtomato.