Oat milk is quickly becoming a popular choice among dairy alternatives, and for good reason. Whether you're lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking for a plant-based alternative to traditional milk, oat milk provides a creamy, delicious option that’s easy to make at home.

Plus, its smooth texture makes it perfect for everything from morning coffee and cereal to smoothies and baking.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup rolled oats (use gluten-free oats if necessary)

- 4 cups water

- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)

- Pinch of salt

Directions:

Soak the Oats: Begin by soaking your rolled oats in water for around 30 minutes. This helps soften them and eliminates some of the natural starch, which can result in a smoother, less slimy milk. After the oats have soaked, drain and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. This step is important to avoid any residual sliminess.

Blend the Ingredients: In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked oats and 4 cups of fresh water. Blend the mixture for about 30-45 seconds, or until the oats are broken down and the liquid looks milky and frothy. Be careful not to over-blend, as this can cause the mixture to become too thick

Strain the Oat Milk: Strain the mixture using a nut milk bag, fine mesh sieve, or a cheesecloth into a large bowl or jug. You may want to strain the liquid twice to ensure you get rid of all the pulp, leaving you with a silky-smooth milk. Avoid squeezing the bag or cloth too hard, as this can push through extra oat particles, which may make the milk a bit grainy.

Sweeten and Flavor: After straining, you can leave the milk as is for a neutral, plain flavor, or you can add your desired flavorings. Stir in maple syrup for a hint of sweetness or a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a richer taste. Add a small pinch of salt to balance out the flavors and enhance the natural sweetness of the oats.

Store and Use: Transfer your freshly made oat milk into a glass jar or bottle and store it in the fridge. Homemade oat milk will stay fresh for 4-5 days, but remember to shake it well before using, as it tends to separate naturally over time. You can use your oat milk in coffee, tea, smoothies, cereals, or even as a dairy replacement in your favorite baking recipes.

Oat milk is an excellent dairy alternative that’s both versatile and delicious. Whether you're enjoying it in your morning coffee, blending it into smoothies, or using it as a base for soups and sauces, oat milk offers a creamy, plant-based option that’s as healthy as it is tasty. With its eco-friendly benefits and nutrient-packed profile, making your own oat milk at home ensures you get all the goodness in a simple, natural way. So, Lykkers, try this recipe today and enjoy the rich, velvety texture of homemade oat milk.