Is Homemade Oat Milk or Almond Milk Better? A Head-to-Head Comparison

An estimated 61% increase in U.S. plant-based milk sales between 2012 and 2016 showcases the rising popularity of dairy alternatives. But when considering making your own, the question remains: is homemade oat milk or almond milk better for your specific needs, be it nutrition, cost, or taste?

Quick Summary

This article compares the pros and cons of making oat milk versus almond milk at home. It covers nutritional value, cost-effectiveness, environmental impact, and practical use in recipes to help you choose the right plant-based milk.

Key Points

• Texture: Homemade oat milk is naturally creamier and thicker, making it ideal for coffee, while almond milk has a lighter, thinner consistency perfect for smoothies.

• Nutrition: Oat milk contains more fiber and carbohydrates, while almond milk is significantly lower in calories and carbs, better for low-calorie diets.

• Environmental Impact: Oat milk has a lower water footprint and generally uses less land than water-intensive almond farming, making it the more sustainable choice.

• Additives: Homemade versions allow you to avoid additives and stabilizers found in store-bought milks; however, they lack the fortification of commercial products.

• Recipe Difficulty: Homemade almond milk requires an overnight soak, but the straining is forgiving. Oat milk is faster but requires careful, no-squeeze straining to avoid a slimy texture.

• Repurposing Pulp: Almond milk pulp can be dried and used as almond flour, while leftover oat pulp can be added to oatmeal or baked goods.

Homemade Milk: The Basics

Making your own plant-based milk is an excellent way to control ingredients, avoid additives, and potentially save money. However, the homemade versions differ from fortified, store-bought options, especially regarding micronutrients like calcium and vitamin B12. The process generally involves soaking, blending, and straining, but the results in terms of texture, flavor, and nutrition vary significantly between oats and almonds.

Homemade Oat Milk: Creamy and Eco-Friendly

Homemade oat milk is praised for its creamy texture, which closely mimics dairy milk, making it a favorite for coffee and lattes. Oats require significantly less water to grow than almonds, giving them a smaller environmental footprint. The process is quick, but can be tricky to get right. Over-blending or squeezing the pulp too hard can result in a slimy texture.

Homemade Oat Milk Recipe (No Sliminess)

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
  • 4 cups ice-cold water
  • A pinch of sea salt (optional)
  • 1-2 Medjool dates (optional, for sweetness)
• Instructions:
  1. Combine the oats, ice-cold water, and optional ingredients in a high-speed blender. Do not over-blend; 30 seconds is sufficient. The cold water is key to preventing a slimy texture.
  2. Place a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a large bowl.
  3. Slowly pour the mixture through the strainer. Crucially, do not squeeze the pulp. Let gravity do the work to keep the milk from becoming slimy.
  4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Shake well before using, as natural separation will occur.

Homemade Almond Milk: Light and Nutrient-Rich

Almond milk is the classic dairy alternative, known for its mild, slightly nutty flavor and lighter consistency. Making it at home involves soaking the almonds, which can improve digestion and nutrient absorption. While it's lower in calories and carbs than oat milk, it's also lower in fiber and protein. The main environmental concern for almonds is the high water usage during cultivation, particularly in drought-prone regions like California where most almonds are grown.

Homemade Almond Milk Recipe

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup raw almonds, soaked overnight
  • 4 cups filtered water
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. Place the almonds in a bowl, cover with water, and soak in the refrigerator for 8-12 hours.
  2. Drain and rinse the soaked almonds.
  3. Combine the rinsed almonds, 4 cups of fresh filtered water, and optional salt and vanilla in a blender. Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
  4. Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or several layers of cheesecloth into a large bowl. Unlike oat milk, you can squeeze the pulp here to extract as much milk as possible.
  5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake before serving.

Which is Better for Your Needs?

Choosing between homemade oat and almond milk depends on your dietary priorities, taste preferences, and environmental concerns.

For nutrition:

• Fiber: Oat milk contains more fiber, particularly beta-glucans, which are beneficial for heart health and can help lower cholesterol.
• Calories/Carbs: If you're watching calorie or carbohydrate intake, unsweetened homemade almond milk is the lighter option. Oat milk is naturally higher in carbs and can have a higher glycemic index due to its processing.
• Nutrients: Neither homemade milk is fortified like its store-bought counterpart, so they will lack added calcium, vitamin D, and B12. Almond milk naturally contains more vitamin E.

For cooking and baking:

• Oat milk offers a naturally creamy texture that is excellent for lattes and frothing. Its neutral flavor works well in savory dishes and creamy sauces.
• Almond milk, with its thinner consistency and subtle nutty taste, is great for smoothies, cereal, and some baked goods. However, its flavor can be more pronounced and may not be ideal for all recipes.

For the environment:

• Oat milk production uses significantly less water than almond farming, making it the more sustainable choice in terms of water conservation.
• Almond farming is very water-intensive, with much of the production concentrated in drought-affected areas.

Comparison Table: Homemade Oat Milk vs. Homemade Almond Milk

Feature	Homemade Oat Milk	Homemade Almond Milk
Texture	Creamy and thicker	Thinner, more watery
Flavor	Naturally sweet, mild, and neutral	Subtle, nutty flavor
Best for	Coffee, lattes, savory sauces, baking	Smoothies, cereal, lighter recipes
Nutrition	Higher in carbohydrates and fiber (beta-glucans)	Lower in calories and carbs
Water Use	Much lower water footprint	Higher water footprint
Production	Faster and easier with no soaking	Requires overnight soaking
Pulp Use	Pulp can be harder to strain correctly (no squeezing!)	Leftover pulp can be dehydrated into almond flour

Conclusion: Which Milk is Right for You?

Both homemade oat milk and almond milk offer distinct advantages and drawbacks, and the "better" option ultimately depends on your individual needs. For those seeking a creamier, more neutral-tasting milk for coffee and baking with a smaller water footprint, homemade oat milk is the clear winner. Its higher fiber and carb content can also provide a good energy boost. However, the risk of sliminess requires careful, no-squeeze straining.

On the other hand, homemade almond milk is the ideal choice for those focused on lower calories and carbs, making it great for smoothies and lighter recipes. While it has a higher water footprint, its distinct nutty flavor is a preference for many. The leftover pulp can also be repurposed into almond flour, reducing waste. Ultimately, experimenting with both recipes will help you discover which homemade milk best suits your taste buds and lifestyle.

Choosing for your diet: For managing weight, almond milk's lower calorie count is appealing, while oat milk's fiber content might provide greater satiety. For those with nut allergies, oat milk is a safe choice, while almond milk is naturally gluten-free (though oat milk can be, if certified). Consider consulting a dietitian to align your choice with specific health goals. The most important factor for maximizing health benefits is choosing unsweetened, minimally processed options.

For more detailed information on comparing plant-based milks, check out this helpful guide from Verywell Health.

The DIY Verdict

Consider your main priorities. If a creamy texture and lower water usage are most important, master the art of no-squeeze oat milk. If a low-carb profile and versatility in cold recipes are your focus, soak and blend almond milk. Both offer fresh, customizable alternatives to store-bought varieties, putting control back in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does homemade oat milk get slimy?

Yes, homemade oat milk can become slimy, especially if it is over-blended or if you squeeze the pulp too hard during straining. To avoid this, blend for no more than 30 seconds and use very cold water, then let it strain naturally without squeezing.

Why is homemade almond milk grainy?

Graininess in homemade almond milk usually results from not blending the almonds enough or from using a strainer that isn't fine enough. For the smoothest milk, use a powerful blender and strain with a proper nut milk bag or fine cheesecloth.

Can homemade oat milk be frothed for coffee?

Yes, homemade oat milk can be frothed, especially if you get the creamy, thick consistency right. Its natural fats contribute to good foam, and you can achieve a "barista-style" consistency by adding a tiny amount of a healthy oil.

How long do homemade plant-based milks last in the fridge?

Homemade plant-based milks lack preservatives, so they have a shorter shelf life. Homemade almond milk typically lasts about 3-5 days, while homemade oat milk can last for about 5-7 days.

Is homemade milk cheaper than store-bought?

Yes, homemade versions of both milks are generally more cost-effective than buying commercial cartons. The main ingredients—rolled oats and raw almonds—are relatively inexpensive and go a long way.

Is homemade oat milk better for the environment than homemade almond milk?

Yes, homemade oat milk is often considered more eco-friendly. Oat cultivation requires significantly less water and land than almond farming, especially since most almonds are grown in water-stressed regions.

What can I do with the leftover almond pulp?

The leftover almond pulp can be dehydrated and ground into almond flour, which can be used for baking or cooking. It's a great way to reduce waste and create a new ingredient.

Are homemade milks as nutritious as store-bought versions?

No, homemade milks lack the fortification found in most store-bought varieties, which are often enriched with nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and B12. It's important to get these nutrients from other sources in your diet.