How long do you soak almonds in water to make almond milk?

January 4, 2026 •

4 min read

While store-bought almond milk often contains gums and preservatives, homemade versions offer a purer, more wholesome alternative. The crucial first step for a perfect batch is knowing precisely how long do you soak almonds in water to make almond milk, which affects the final milk's creaminess and taste.

Quick Summary

The ideal soaking time for almonds depends on desired texture and preparation speed. Both overnight (8-12 hours) and quick-soak methods are effective for softening nuts, which results in creamier, more flavorful homemade almond milk.

Key Points

Overnight Soak (8-12 hours): The ideal duration for maximum creaminess and a clean flavor profile.
Quick-Soak Method (15-30 minutes): Boil water, add almonds, and let sit for a faster result, suitable for last-minute needs.
Extended Soak (Up to 48 hours): For exceptional creaminess, soak overnight then refrigerate for up to 48 hours, remembering to drain and rinse after the initial soak.
Discard Soaking Water: Always use fresh water for blending after draining the almonds, as the soaking water contains undesirable compounds.
Do Not Over-Soak at Room Temperature: Avoid fermenting the almonds by not leaving them out for more than 12 hours. Refrigerate for longer soaks.
Strain for Smoothest Milk: A nut milk bag is the best tool for straining to ensure a smooth, pulp-free texture.

The Importance of Soaking Almonds

Soaking almonds is a simple yet powerful technique that dramatically improves the quality of homemade almond milk. This process not only softens the nuts, making them easier to blend, but also has a significant impact on the milk's texture and overall digestibility. Soaking allows the almonds to fully hydrate, releasing their natural creaminess and resulting in a richer, smoother beverage without the need for thickeners or stabilizers.

Why You Should Soak Your Almonds

There are several benefits to soaking almonds before turning them into milk:

Enhanced Creaminess: As almonds absorb water, they become plump and tender. This ensures a smoother breakdown in the blender, leading to a silkier, less gritty final product.
Improved Flavor: Soaking reduces the concentration of tannins in the almond skin, which can impart a bitter flavor. This leaves a cleaner, sweeter almond taste in your milk.
Increased Digestibility: Some nuts, including almonds, contain compounds like phytic acid that can interfere with nutrient absorption. While research is mixed on the full effect, soaking is widely believed to help neutralize these compounds, making the almonds easier on the digestive system.
Effortless Blending: Soaked nuts require less strain on your blender, especially if you don't own a high-powered model. The softened texture helps achieve a uniform consistency more easily.

Choosing the Right Soaking Time for Your Needs

The optimal soaking time varies depending on how quickly you need the milk and your desired texture. Below are the most common methods.

Overnight Method (8 to 12 Hours)

This is the most recommended and traditional method for making almond milk. Simply cover the almonds with fresh, cool water in a bowl and let them sit on the counter overnight. This extended soak ensures the almonds are fully plumped and softened, yielding the creamiest possible milk with the cleanest flavor. After soaking, drain and rinse the almonds thoroughly before blending.

Quick-Soak Method (15 to 30 Minutes)

For those short on time, a quick soak is a viable alternative. Bring a pot of water to a boil, remove it from the heat, and add your almonds. Let them sit for 15 to 30 minutes. This method works well to soften the nuts sufficiently for blending, although the resulting milk may be slightly less creamy than the overnight version. Drain and rinse the almonds well afterward.

Extended Soak (Up to 48 Hours)

For an exceptionally rich and creamy milk, you can extend the soaking time up to 48 hours, but with a crucial modification. After the initial 8-12 hours, drain and rinse the almonds, and then transfer them to the refrigerator for the remainder of the time. This prevents spoilage or fermentation, which can occur at room temperature during longer soaks, and results in a very soft almond that produces an extra-smooth milk.

Soaking Time Comparison for Almond Milk


Feature	Overnight Method (8–12 hrs)	Quick-Soak Method (15–30 mins)	Extended Soak (up to 48 hrs)
Creaminess	High	Medium	Very High
Flavor	Less bitter, clean	Subtle bitterness remains	Cleanest, richest flavor
Preparation Time	Minimal active time; longer waiting	Minimal waiting time	Longer waiting, but extra creamy
Best For	Best all-around option	Fast, last-minute batches	Max-creamy, premium milk
Storage	Same as other methods	Same as other methods	Longer fridge time post-soak

What to Do (and Not Do) When Soaking Almonds

The Soaking Water Dilemma

Always discard the soaking water. The water used for soaking contains the phytic acid and other enzyme inhibitors released from the almonds. Using this water to blend your milk would reintroduce these substances and negatively affect the taste and digestibility. A thorough rinse after soaking is also recommended.

Can You Soak Almonds for Too Long?

Yes, over-soaking can cause issues. If left at room temperature for more than 12 hours, almonds can begin to ferment and develop an unpleasant odor and taste. While you can refrigerate them for longer soaks, it is important to check for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or mold, and discard the batch if you have any doubts. Most sources recommend a maximum of 2 days, even in the fridge.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Soaking Time

Ultimately, the best soaking time for your almond milk depends on your schedule and taste preferences. For most home cooks, the overnight soak of 8 to 12 hours provides the ideal balance of convenience, creaminess, and flavor. If you need a quick batch, the hot water method is an excellent shortcut. For a truly luxurious, extra-creamy result, consider the extended refrigerated soak. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure your homemade almond milk is consistently delicious, smooth, and free of unnecessary additives. For more information on the benefits and techniques of soaking almonds, a great resource is the article on Healthline: Soaking Almonds: Benefits, Steps, and More.

Frequently Asked Questions

You soak almonds to soften them, making them easier to blend into a creamy liquid. Soaking also helps reduce bitterness from the skins and may aid in digestion by reducing phytic acid.

Yes, you can soak almonds for up to 24 hours. However, after the first 8-12 hours, they should be refrigerated to prevent fermentation and spoilage.

Yes, a quick soak of 15 to 30 minutes in hot water will sufficiently soften the almonds for blending, though it may result in a slightly less creamy milk compared to an overnight soak.

Peeling the almonds is optional but can lead to a whiter, less speckled, and slightly cleaner-tasting milk. The skins are soft enough to be blended with the almonds after soaking.

Soaking almonds for too long, especially at room temperature, can cause them to spoil or ferment, developing an off odor and taste. It is best to stick to recommended times and refrigerate for longer soaks.

For the smoothest and least gritty milk, a nut milk bag is the ideal tool. A fine-mesh strainer lined with a double layer of cheesecloth is also a viable alternative.

Store homemade almond milk in an airtight glass jar or container in the refrigerator. It typically lasts for 4-5 days. Separation is normal, so shake well before each use.