How to Make Plant-Based Milk + 6 Easy Recipes
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If you’re tired of the endless rows of store-bought plant-based milks that leave you wondering what half of the ingredients are, it’s time to get in the kitchen and learn how to make plant-based milk yourself.
Homemade plant-based milk is fresher, healthier, and more customizable than anything you’ll find on the shelf—and the best part? You get to control exactly what goes in it.
If you’re still wondering how to make plant-based milk and why it’s worth the effort, let’s break it down.
Why You Should Learn How to Make Plant-Based Milk at Home
1. Fresher, Healthier, and Way Tastier
Store-bought plant-based milks are often loaded with preservatives, added sugars, and artificial flavorings—things you definitely don’t need in your life (or in your glass). When you make it yourself, you control the ingredients, making sure you’re only drinking wholesome, nourishing goodness. Plus, homemade milk retains more of the natural nutrients from the ingredients, so it’s even better for your health.
2. Fully Customizable for Your Tastebuds
Do you prefer a thicker, creamier texture for your coffee? Or maybe a lighter, subtler flavor to pair with your cereal? When you make your own milk, you can adjust everything from the consistency to the flavor. Want to add a dash of vanilla, cinnamon, or maple syrup? Go for it! It’s your milk, your rules.
3. Eco-Friendly and Wallet-Friendly
Say goodbye to single-use packaging! By making your own milk, you can cut down on plastic waste and reduce your environmental footprint. Plus, buying raw ingredients like nuts, seeds, or oats in bulk is way more cost-effective than constantly purchasing store-bought versions. It’s a win for your wallet and the planet.
How to Make Plant-Based Milk: 6 Popular Types to Try at Home
If you’re learning how to make plant-based milk, these options are a great place to start. Each one has its own flavor Each one has its own flavor, texture, and health benefits, so there’s no shortage of options to experiment with.
And if you’re curious about the best tools to make it even easier, I shared my favorites in this beginner’s guide to choosing the best blender for nut milk.
1. Almond Milk
Almond milk is one of the easiest plant-based milks to master when you’re learning how to make plant-based milk from scratch. It’s the classic plant-based milk that’s creamy, subtly nutty, and extremely versatile. It’s like the Swiss army knife of plant-based milks—whether you’re pouring it over cereal, blending it into a smoothie, or adding it to your morning coffee, it works for everything.
Health Profile:
- Vitamin E: Almonds are a powerhouse of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from oxidative damage and promotes glowing skin. Almond milk is like a liquid skincare routine.
- Monounsaturated Fats: These heart-healthy fats can help lower bad cholesterol levels, support your cardiovascular health, and keep your heart happy.
- Magnesium: This mineral is key for a healthy heart, nerve function, and regulating blood sugar. It’s also great for keeping your muscles relaxed (hello, better sleep!).
- Potassium: Almond milk’s potassium content helps manage blood pressure and supports overall heart health.
2. Oat Milk
Oat milk is incredibly creamy and naturally sweet, making it a favorite for coffee lovers and anyone who likes their milk a little thicker. It’s slightly more indulgent than some other milks, but still light and satisfying.
Health Profile:
- Beta-Glucan: This powerful soluble fiber helps lower cholesterol and supports a healthy heart. Oats are also great for stabilizing blood sugar levels, making oat milk a perfect option for those managing their blood sugar.
- B-Vitamins: Oats are packed with B-vitamins, especially B1 (thiamine), which is essential for energy production and metabolism.
- Antioxidants: Oat milk contains avenanthramides, unique antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
- Fiber: If you’re looking to improve your digestive health, oat milk is your friend. It’s loaded with fiber, which supports healthy digestion and gut health.
3. Cashew Milk
Cashew milk is another beginner-friendly choice when you’re learning how to make plant-based milk that’s ultra creamy. Cashew milk is super creamy and neutral in flavor, making it the perfect addition to anything from savory dishes to sweet treats. If you’re a fan of rich, creamy textures, this one’s for you.
Health Profile:
- Monounsaturated Fats: Cashews are packed with heart-healthy fats, which help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Copper: This mineral helps your body form red blood cells, supports your immune system, and improves iron absorption.
- Magnesium: Cashews are rich in magnesium, which is great for bone health, regulating blood pressure, and reducing stress.
- Phosphorus: Essential for strong bones and teeth, phosphorus is also key for energy production.
4. Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is thick, creamy, and full of tropical goodness. Whether you’re making a rich curry or a refreshing smoothie, this milk adds a touch of sunshine to any dish.
Health Profile:
- Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs): These fats are quickly converted into energy, giving you a mental and physical boost. MCTs also support brain function and cognitive health.
- Lauric Acid: This unique fatty acid has antimicrobial properties, helping support a healthy immune system by fighting off bad bacteria and viruses.
- Iron: Coconut milk contains iron, which is essential for healthy red blood cells and oxygen transport in the body.
5. Hemp Milk
Hemp milk has a slightly nutty, earthy flavor and is lighter than many other plant-based milks. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost their plant protein intake.
Health Profile:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Hemp seeds are one of the best plant sources of omega-3s, which support brain function, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health.
- Protein: Hemp milk is a great source of plant-based protein, offering about 3 grams of protein per cup. It’s perfect for muscle recovery or as a post-workout drink.
- Magnesium: This mineral is essential for everything from regulating blood pressure to supporting muscle function and energy production.
- Antioxidants: Hemp seeds contain powerful antioxidants that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, promoting overall health.
6. Rice Milk
Rice milk is a great option if you want to keep things light while learning how to make plant-based milk for sensitive stomachs. Rice milk is one of the lightest and most hypoallergenic plant-based milks, making it a great choice for those with allergies or sensitivities.
Health Profile:
- Manganese: Rice is an excellent source of manganese, which plays a key role in energy metabolism and bone health.
- Low in Fat and Calories: Rice milk is low in fat and calories, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a lighter alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, rice milk is ideal for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Mixing Plant-Based Milks for Targeted Health Benefits
Learning how to make plant-based milk is more than a DIY kitchen win—it’s a chance to customize your milk to support your wellness goals. Different plant-based milks offer unique benefits, and when you mix them intentionally, you can create blends that support digestion, energy, hormones, sleep, and more.
Here are my favorite pairings to help you make your plant milk work harder for you:
1. Hormone Balance & Skin Health
Best Mix: Hemp Milk + Almond Milk
Why It Works:
- Hemp milk is packed with essential fatty acids, including GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), which helps reduce PMS symptoms, support estrogen balance, and ease hormonal skin flare-ups. GLA has anti-inflammatory properties and is especially helpful during perimenopause or high-stress phases.
- Almond milk adds a dose of vitamin E, known for promoting skin repair and elasticity, along with magnesium, which helps regulate cortisol, support estrogen detoxification, and ease mood swings.
Try it when: You’re feeling “off” before your cycle, need a glow-up from within, or want a daily blend that gently supports hormone harmony and healthy skin.
2. Digestive Health & Gut Support
Best Mix: Rice Milk + Cashew Milk
Why It Works:
- Rice milk is ultra-light, hypoallergenic, and easy to digest—ideal if you’re bloated, sensitive to nuts, or just need something gentle.
- Cashew milk, when made from soaked cashews with the pulp partially left in, delivers natural fiber, magnesium, and a prebiotic effect that supports bowel regularity and gut microbiome balance. Cashews also contain nutrients that soothe the intestinal lining.
Try it when: Your digestion feels off, your stomach is sensitive, or you’re looking for a gentle reset with soothing creaminess and minimal bloat.
3. Heart Health & Blood Sugar Balance
Best Mix: Almond Milk + Hemp Milk
Why It Works:
- Almond milk is rich in monounsaturated fats, which help reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) and improve HDL (good cholesterol). It’s also high in magnesium, essential for insulin sensitivity and blood pressure regulation.
- Hemp milk provides plant-based omega-3s and arginine, which support vascular health, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation—key factors in preventing heart disease.
Try it when: You want a daily heart-smart milk for lattes, smoothies, or cereal that helps support long-term cardiovascular health and balanced blood sugar.
4. Anti-Inflammation & Joint Support
Best Mix: Cashew Milk + Oat Milk
Why It Works:
- Cashew milk brings copper and monounsaturated fats, which help reduce joint inflammation and support collagen formation. It’s also naturally soothing to tissues—especially when warmed.
- Oat milk contains avenanthramides, powerful plant antioxidants that have been shown to reduce systemic inflammation, particularly in the joints and blood vessels. Oats also help lower C-reactive protein (CRP), a key inflammation marker.
Try it when: You’re sore, recovering from a workout, or looking for an anti-inflammatory morning drink that also satisfies that creamy comfort craving.
5. Energy & Vitality
Best Mix: Oat Milk + Rice Milk
Why It Works:
- Oat milk gives you B vitamins (B1, B2, B6) for energy metabolism, plus complex carbs that fuel you slowly without spiking blood sugar.
- Rice milk offers fast-absorbing glucose and manganese, which quickly converts food into fuel—especially useful if you’re tired, low on sleep, or skipping caffeine.
Try it when: You need a morning lift, post-lunch reset, or a quick blend before a walk or creative sprint. Great in smoothies, matcha lattes, or blended with cacao.
6. Relaxation & Sleep Support
Best Mix: Cashew Milk + Hemp Milk
Why It Works:
- Cashew milk is one of the best sources of magnesium, the ultimate calm-down mineral. It helps relax muscles, reduce anxiety, and regulate melatonin and serotonin.
- Hemp milk contains omega-3s and GLA, both of which reduce stress hormones and support better sleep architecture by supporting your brain’s neurotransmitters.
Try it when: You need help unwinding after a long day, are dealing with insomnia or stress, or want a dreamy moon milk base. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or lavender for extra calm.
7. Bone Health & Strength
Best Mix: Almond Milk + Rice Milk
Why It Works:
- Almond milk contains calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin E—all essential for building and maintaining strong bones.
- Rice milk may be fortified with calcium, but it also naturally contains phosphorus and magnesium, which help with bone mineral density.
Try it when: You’re looking to support bone health long-term, especially during pregnancy, perimenopause, or recovery from injury. Use it as a base for shakes or breakfast drinks.
8. Immune Support
Best Mix: Coconut Milk + Hemp Milk
Why It Works:
- Coconut milk contains lauric acid, a powerful fat with antiviral, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties. It helps your immune system stay alert and strong.
- Hemp milk provides zinc, magnesium, iron, and omega-3s, all critical for immune cell development and inflammation control. Zinc in particular is essential for white blood cell production.
Try it when: You’re feeling run down, in a season change, traveling, or supporting your immune system during a stressful time. Add turmeric, ginger, or cardamom for extra immune love.
6 DIY Plant-Based Milk Recipes
These beginner-friendly recipes are perfect if you’re wondering how to make plant-based milk that’s creamy, clean, and full of flavor. Whether you’re team almond, oat, cashew, coconut, hemp, or rice—there’s an easy option here that fits your routine (and your blender).
1. Creamy Homemade Almond Milk
2. Simple Homemade Oat Milk (No Slime)
3. Simple Homemade Cashew Milk (Ultra Creamy, No Straining Needed)
4. Simple Homemade Coconut Milk (From Shredded Coconut)
5. Simple Homemade Hemp Milk
6. Simple Homemade Rice Milk (Nut-Free & Budget-Friendly)
My Plant-Based Milk Essentials
These are the kitchen tools and pantry staples I recommend for anyone learning how to make plant-based milk at home.
Kitchen Tools I Use for Making Plant-Based Milk
- Nut Milk Bag – No more gritty milk or weird textures. This ultra-fine mesh strainer bag makes your milk smooth and silky.
- High-Speed Blender – I use this one daily. It’s strong enough for almonds, soft enough for oats.
- Small Milk Pot – For gently warming your milk without boiling. This non-toxic stovetop pot is my fave.
- Glass Storage Bottles – These airtight bottles keep your milk fresh for 4–5 days and look cute in the fridge too.
Pantry Staples You’ll Want on Hand for Homemade Plant-Based Milk
- Organic Raw Almonds – Unroasted, unsalted. Perfect for creamy almond milk with no weird aftertaste.
- Shelled Hemp Seeds – No soaking required. Just blend and go for quick omega-3-rich milk.
- Organic Rolled Oats – Budget-friendly and always in my pantry. Look for gluten-free if needed.
- Medjool Dates – My go-to natural sweetener for any of these milks. Just one adds the perfect sweetness.
- Sunflower Lecithin – This is my trick for making homemade plant-based milk extra creamy and dreamy. Use ½ teaspoon per 4 cups milk. Needs high-speed blending to emulsify properly.
- Vanilla Bean Powder – No alcohol or fake flavor. Just cozy vanilla in powder form.
- Ceylon Cinnamon – Yup, this is true cinnamon. Gentler on the body than cassia and smells amazing.
FAQs About Homemade Plant-Based Milk
Why should I learn how to make plant-based milk at home?
Learning how to make plant-based milk ensures you know exactly what’s going into it ensures you know exactly what’s going into it—no unnecessary preservatives, artificial flavors, or added sugars. It’s fresher, healthier, and customizable to your taste preferences. Plus, it’s more eco-friendly and often more budget-friendly than store-bought alternatives.
What’s the best plant-based milk for coffee?
Oat milk is the best for lattes as it froths well and has a naturally creamy texture; Almond milk is a popular choice but may separate in hot coffee unless it’s blended well; Cashew milk is a great alternative for a thick, creamy consistency.
How long does homemade plant-based milk last?
Homemade plant-based milk lasts 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight glass container and shake well before use, as natural separation occurs.
Can I freeze homemade plant-based milk?
Yes! Freeze it in ice cube trays for portioned use in smoothies, coffee, or recipes. However, some milks (like oat milk) may separate slightly when thawed—just blend or shake well before use.
What can I do with leftover pulp?
Don’t waste it! Use the leftover nut, seed, or oat pulp in: Baking (muffins, cookies, or crackers); Smoothies for extra fiber; Homemade granola; Composting (if you don’t want to use it in food).
How can I make my plant-based milk creamier?
For a thicker, creamier texture: Use less water when blending (e.g., 3 cups instead of 4); Add a small handful of soaked cashews for a richer consistency; Try adding a 1/2 teaspoon of sunflower lecithin for extra creaminess. Check out my Moon Milk Coffee Creamer recipe for the full guide.
Which plant-based milk is best for baking?
Almond milk has a neutral flavor, making it a great all-purpose milk substitute; Oat milk adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture; Cashew milk works well in creamy or rich baked goods.
What’s the most budget-friendly plant-based milk to make?
Oat milk and rice milk are the most affordable since oats and rice are inexpensive and widely available. Hemp milk is also cost-effective because no soaking or straining is needed.
Can I use homemade plant-based milk in savory dishes?
Yes! Just omit sweeteners and flavorings. Coconut milk works well in curries and soups, while cashew milk is great for creamy sauces.
Why does my homemade milk separate in the fridge?
Separation is natural since there are no artificial emulsifiers. Just shake well before using!
How can I make chocolate plant-based milk?
Blend your homemade milk with: 1 tbsp cacao powder; 1-2 Medjool dates or maple syrup; 1/4 tsp vanilla powder; A pinch of sea salt. This creates a delicious, dairy-free chocolate milk!
What’s the best plant-based milk for toddlers?
Oat, hemp, and cashew milk are mild and naturally sweet, making them good choices. However, always check with a pediatrician for nutritional needs.
