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Almond Cow vs Nutr: Which Nut Milk Maker is Better?

4 min read

According to reports, homemade plant-based milk has a much richer flavor and can be customized more than its store-bought counterpart. For those seeking an alternative to additive-filled milks, the choice often comes down to two popular machines: the Almond Cow and Nutr. But which one truly reigns supreme?

Quick Summary

A detailed comparison of the Almond Cow and Nutr nut milk makers. It examines key differences in size, capacity, speed, features, and cleaning to help users decide which machine best fits their needs for making fresh plant-based milk.

Key Points

  • Almond Cow is Faster: The Almond Cow produces large batches of plant-based milk in around one minute, prioritizing speed and efficiency.

  • Nutr Offers More Control: The Nutr machine features multiple temperature settings and a self-clean function, providing greater versatility for different milks and ease of maintenance.

  • Almond Cow Has Higher Capacity: Ideal for families or frequent users, the Almond Cow can produce 5-6 cups per batch, while Nutr is best for single servings (~1.5 cups).

  • Nutr's Milk is Often Creamier: Due to its slower blending process, Nutr consistently produces a richer, more full-bodied milk texture, particularly with nuts like coconut and cashew.

  • Cleaning is Different: Nutr offers a convenient self-cleaning function, whereas the Almond Cow requires careful manual cleaning of its blades and basket.

  • Price and Footprint Vary: The Nutr is the more affordable and compact option, while the larger Almond Cow comes with a higher price tag.

  • Consider Your Needs: Your best choice depends on your batch size requirements, priority of speed versus texture, and available counter space.

In This Article

Comparing the Top Plant-Based Milk Machines

For many health-conscious consumers and those with dietary restrictions, making homemade nut milk is a rewarding process that avoids the emulsifiers and preservatives found in commercial options. Two of the most popular machines designed to simplify this process are the Almond Cow and the Nutr. While both promise fresh, homemade dairy alternatives, they cater to different kitchen needs. Understanding the distinct features of each is essential for making an informed purchase.

Size and Capacity

One of the most obvious differences between the two machines is their physical size and the volume of milk they can produce. The Almond Cow is the larger of the two, boasting a capacity of up to six cups (about 1.5 liters) per batch. This makes it an excellent choice for families or individuals who use a lot of plant-based milk throughout the week. However, this larger capacity means it also requires more counter and storage space.

In contrast, the Nutr is significantly more compact and portable, making it a great option for those with limited kitchen space. Its capacity is much smaller, producing about 1.5 cups (roughly 350 ml) per cycle. While this is perfect for single servings or small batches for coffee, it can become tedious if you need larger quantities and have to run multiple cycles. The smaller size does, however, align with Nutr's focus on sustainability by reducing waste.

Speed and Performance

Speed is another major point of difference. The Almond Cow is remarkably fast, completing its process in about a minute. This rapid, one-button operation is ideal for busy mornings when time is a luxury. The trade-off for this speed, however, is that some users find the resulting milk can be a bit watery or gritty, especially with ingredients like coconut.

The Nutr takes a more patient approach, with cycles typically running for five minutes or longer, depending on the setting. This slower process, particularly on its warm or hot settings, can lead to a richer, creamier, and more full-bodied milk texture. For those who prioritize a gourmet result and have a few extra minutes to spare, the Nutr's performance is often superior.

Features and Versatility

The Nutr offers more features and control than the single-button Almond Cow.

  • Nutr's Features: The Nutr comes with multiple temperature settings (Warm, Hot, and Boil), a delay-start function for pre-soaking ingredients, and a self-cleaning mode. This versatility allows for greater experimentation with different types of nuts, seeds, and grains, as well as the creation of warm beverages.
  • Almond Cow's Features: The Almond Cow's simplicity is its key feature. Its one-touch button handles all milk-making, though some recipes may benefit from running a second cycle. This no-fuss approach is perfect for those who want quick results with minimal input.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Ease of cleaning is a significant consideration for any kitchen gadget. The Almond Cow, with its simpler design, is generally quicker to clean manually. The removable filter basket detaches from the lid for rinsing, though some users find the heavy lid and sharp blades tricky and potentially hazardous to wash.

The Nutr, despite having more parts to clean, has a major advantage with its self-cleaning function. By adding a little water and soap, the machine can clean itself in 90 seconds, followed by a quick rinse. For users who dread manual scrubbing, this feature can be a deciding factor.

Comparison Table: Almond Cow vs Nutr

Feature Almond Cow Nutr
Capacity 5-6 cups (large batches) Approx. 1.5 cups (single servings)
Speed Very fast (around 1 minute) Slower (5+ minutes, depending on settings)
Milk Quality Can be watery or gritty; requires double cycle for some recipes Creamier, richer, more consistent results
Functionality One-touch milk making Multiple temperature settings, self-clean, delay-start
Cleaning Manual cleaning can be difficult and dangerous Self-cleaning function simplifies maintenance
Price More expensive (~$245) More affordable (~$169)
Footprint Larger footprint, requires more counter space Compact and easier to store

Conclusion

Choosing between the Almond Cow and Nutr ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. For those who need to produce large batches of milk quickly for a family or for meal prepping, the Almond Cow's superior capacity and speed make it the better option. Its simplicity is its strength, offering a no-fuss experience even if cleaning the blade assembly is tricky.

On the other hand, the Nutr is the clear winner for individuals who prefer smaller, fresh batches, desire more control over their milk's texture and temperature, and prioritize easy cleanup. Its compact size is perfect for small kitchens, and its multiple settings allow for greater versatility in recipes. For the food enthusiast who savors experimentation and a premium, creamy result, the Nutr offers a better overall experience.

Key Factors for Your Decision

Your final choice hinges on a few simple questions:

  • Capacity: Do you need large batches for a family or small, fresh servings for one? (Almond Cow vs. Nutr)
  • Speed vs. Quality: Is a one-minute cycle more important than a potentially creamier texture? (Almond Cow vs. Nutr)
  • Features: Do you want multiple temperature settings and a self-cleaning mode, or just a simple, one-button machine? (Nutr vs. Almond Cow)
  • Price: Are you willing to pay more for speed and capacity, or does a more affordable and compact machine appeal more to you? (Almond Cow vs. Nutr)

Consider your kitchen space, lifestyle, and milk consumption habits, and the right machine will become clear. Both provide a valuable alternative to store-bought milk, but their specific strengths cater to different user profiles.

Final Recommendations

  • Choose Almond Cow if: Speed is your top priority, you need to make large batches for multiple people, and you prefer a simple, one-touch operation.
  • Choose Nutr if: You want more control over milk consistency and temperature, value the convenience of a self-cleaning feature, and primarily need smaller, single servings.

Regardless of your choice, either machine offers a great way to enjoy fresh, preservative-free plant-based milk at home, often at a lower cost than store-bought varieties in the long run.

Optional Outbound Link: Learn more about the environmental benefits of homemade plant-based milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, both machines can process a variety of ingredients, including oats, cashews, seeds, and other nuts. The Nutr's variable presets and heat functions provide more customization for different ingredient types.

Many users find homemade milk from both machines to be richer and fresher tasting than store-bought milk, which often contains stabilizers and additives. The Nutr, specifically, is noted for producing especially creamy results due to its slower, temperature-controlled cycles.

The Nutr machine is generally considered easier to clean due to its self-cleaning cycle. The Almond Cow requires more hands-on cleaning of its blade assembly and filter basket, which can be cumbersome.

The Nutr is much more compact and takes up less counter space, making it a better fit for smaller kitchens. The Almond Cow is larger and requires more space, so it's a better fit if you have ample counter and storage room.

The Almond Cow is better suited for families or those who consume large quantities of milk, as it can produce 5-6 cups per batch. The Nutr's small capacity is better for individuals who prefer single servings to avoid waste.

Only the Nutr machine has built-in heating functions (Warm, Hot, Boil), allowing you to make hot chocolate, tea, and other warm beverages directly. The Almond Cow uses a cold-blending process.

Reviews suggest the Almond Cow is notably quieter during its one-minute cycle. The Nutr runs for a longer duration, and some users find its motor sound more noticeable.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.