I’ve always had a love for homemade foods, and oats are one of my favorite ingredients. They’re versatile, nourishing, and incredibly budget-friendly. Whether it’s in a warm bowl of oatmeal, blended into smoothies, or baked into delicious treats, oats have a way of making everything better. But one of the best ways to use oats? Turning them into oat milk!

Many people have made the switch to oat milk as a plant-based, dairy-free alternative. It’s creamy, naturally sweet, and great in coffee, tea, smoothies, or just on its own. While store-bought oat milk is convenient, I prefer making my own. Why? Because store-bought versions often contain added oils, preservatives, and stabilizers that aren’t necessary for a delicious, nutritious oat milk. When you make it at home, you control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh, wholesome beverage without extras you don’t need.

Why Make Your Own Oat Milk?

1. No Added Oils & Preservatives – Many commercial oat milks contain rapeseed oil, gums, and artificial preservatives to keep them shelf-stable. Homemade oat milk is pure, with only the ingredients you choose.

2. More Affordable – A batch of homemade oat milk costs a fraction of store-bought versions, making it an excellent budget-friendly option.

3. Fresher & More Customizable – You can adjust the sweetness, flavor, and consistency to your liking.

4. Better for the Environment – Making oat milk at home reduces packaging waste and minimizes your carbon footprint.

If you’ve never made oat milk before, you’re in for a treat! It’s incredibly easy and requires just a few ingredients.

Basic Creamy Oat Milk Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)

• 4 cups cold filtered water

• 1-2 Tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional)

• 1- 2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Blend – Add oats, water, and optional ingredients to a blender. Blend for 30-45 seconds (don’t over-blend to avoid a slimy texture).

2. Strain – Pour through a nut milk bag, fine-mesh strainer, or cheesecloth into a bowl or pitcher. Don’t squeeze too hard—this helps reduce sliminess.

3. Store – Transfer to a sealed jar or bottle and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. Shake before using.

Tips for Extra Creaminess:

• Use ice-cold water to reduce sliminess.

• Strain twice for a smoother texture.

• Add 1 Tbsp of melted coconut oil for a richer consistency.

Flavored Oat Milk Variations

One of the best things about homemade oat milk is that you can easily customize it. Here are a few delicious variations!

Chocolate Oat Milk

Rich and creamy with a hint of cocoa.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 4 cups cold filtered water

• 2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 Tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients for 30-45 seconds (don’t over-blend).

2. Strain using a nut milk bag or fine-mesh strainer.

3. Store in the fridge and shake before drinking.

Vanilla Oat Milk

Lightly sweet with a comforting vanilla flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 4 cups cold filtered water

• 2 Tbsp maple syrup or honey

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients for 30-45 seconds until smooth.

2. Strain and store in the fridge.

Strawberry Oat Milk

A naturally sweet and fruity twist on oat milk.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 4 cups cold filtered water

• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries

• 2 Tbsp maple syrup or honey

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients for 30-45 seconds.

2. Strain, then store in the fridge.

3. Enjoy cold, over cereal, or in smoothies!

Banana Oat Milk

Creamy, naturally sweet, and perfect for breakfast drinks!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 4 cups cold filtered water

• 1 ripe banana

• 1 Tbsp maple syrup or honey

• 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.

2. No need to strain this one unless you prefer a thinner consistency.

3. Store in the fridge and shake before using.

Final Thoughts

Making oat milk at home is one of the easiest ways to enjoy a fresh, natural, and delicious dairy-free alternative. Plus, it’s fun to experiment with different flavors! Whether you love it plain, chocolatey, fruity, or spiced, homemade oat milk is a fantastic addition to your daily routine. Give it a try, and you’ll never go back to store-bought again!

Do you have a favorite oat milk variation? Let me know in the comments!