Author: Hannah Singleton, Healthy Luxe
For any fellow plant-based milk drinkers, you’ll know that not all nut milks were made equal. There are a few great brands out there, but the absolute BEST is always homemade. Whether it’s in coffee, on cereal, in smoothie bowls or simply on its own, you can instantly taste the difference. That is why we are so grateful that the lovely Hannah Singleton, from Healthy Luxe, has created this guide to support home nut-milk making at home!
People are often surprised by just how easy it is to make nut-milk at home. All you need is some nuts (almonds, cashews, macadamias, hazelnuts… or a combo!), filtered water and a blender. That’s literally it. Sure, you can get fancy with other ingredients like dates, salt, cacao powder, maple syrup, but that’s completely optional so feel free to keep it simple on your first go!
Making your own homemade nut milk is such a great habit to get into. Once you start, trust us, there’s really no turning back. It tastes better, it’s better for you (there are no unnatural flavors, sugars or preservatives), it’s better for the environment (no waste) and better on your wallet.
Here is your step by step guide to making the easiest, creamiest homemade nut milk in your home kitchen with minimal ingredients and minimal equipment.
What you will need:
- 1 cup nuts (almonds*, macadamias, cashews)
- 3 cups filtered water
*If you’re using almonds, we recommend purchasing a nut milk bag to strain the milk (alternatively, you can use a cheesecloth if you have one). This is to remove the skins. Macadamias and cashews don’t need to be strained so it is slightly easier to make.
Optional extras:
- A few medjool dates (to give your nut milk a hint of sweetness and a subtle caramel flavour)
- Pinch of Himalayan salt (this is a must in our books)
- A few tablespoons cacao powder (if you’re after a chocolatey twist)
- Anything you like!
Get creative with your nut milk and add your favourite spices or superfood powders. Turmeric is a great one to add.
Method
1. Soak your nuts
Whatever kind of nuts you are using, it is always beneficial to soak them before blending. This process helps to soften them making it easier on your blender, and also removes phytates. After they’ve soaked for 3 to 6 hours, drain and rinse the nuts and place them in your blender.
2. Add filtered water
The ideal ratio for a creamy homemade nut milk is 1:3. So if you’re using 1 cup nuts, add 3 cups filtered water. If you would like to create an even creamier texture, you can reduce the amount of water slightly.
3. Add optional extras
Add any other ingredients you would like. We highly recommend adding a pinch of salt and a few medjool dates. It gives your milk such a delicious flavor.
4. Blend for a good few minutes
Allow a few minutes to blend so it is completely smooth. We recommend blending on a high-speed setting for 2-3 minutes. It will start to look just like milk! Blending for a few minutes will start to heat the milk so if you’re using it in your smoothie bowl or on your cereal, allow to cool before serving.
5. Pour into a glass jar
Transfer your homemade nut milk to an air-tight glass jar and store in the fridge. It keeps for 5-6 days.
And that’s it - simple as that! You now have a delicious, creamy and completely natural, homemade nut milk (and made in a matter of minutes). Far better than any nut milk you can buy, if you ask us.
To learn more about Hannah: Healthy Luxe or @healthyluxe