If you’re looking for a healthy, dairy-free alternative to milk, you’ll love this homemade oat milk recipe. Smooth, creamy, and naturally vegan, oat milk is one of the most popular plant-based milk alternatives. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also budget-friendly and made with siIf you’ve ever browsed the plant-based aisle at your local supermarket, you’ll know that oat milk is everywhere. Loved by baristas, health enthusiasts, and families alike, it has become one of the UK’s fastest-growing dairy alternatives. But did you know that you can easily make it yourself at home in under 10 minutes?
This homemade oat milk recipe is smooth, creamy and naturally vegan. It’s made with just a handful of ingredients, costs pennies compared to shop-bought cartons, and can be customised to your taste. Whether you’re switching for health reasons, sustainability, or just fancy trying something new, homemade oat milk is a delicious place to start.
Why Is Oat Milk So Popular?
Oat milk isn’t just a trend—it’s part of a global shift towards plant-based diets. Compared to almond or soy milk, oat milk has a naturally creamy texture and a neutral flavour that makes it versatile. It froths beautifully for lattes, pours smoothly over cereal, and blends seamlessly into smoothies. But it’s not just about taste:
- Oats are cheap, widely available, and bought in bulk, they last for ages
- You can keep it plain or get creative with flavours.
- It’s dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free, and can be made gluten-free.
- For many households, oat milk ticks every box: sustainability, health, affordability, and taste.
Learn how to make creamy homemade oat milk in under 10 minutes. Vegan, dairy-free, nut-free & gluten-free recipe with flavours, tips & FAQs.:
Homemade Oat Milk Recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
- (Optional) Soak oats in cold water for 15–20 minutes, then drain and rinse – this helps reduce sliminess.
- Add oats, fresh water, salt and any optional sweetener or flavourings to a blender. Blend for 30–40 seconds until smooth.
- Strain through a nut milk bag, muslin cloth, or fine mesh sieve into a jug or bottle. For best results, strain twice.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Shake well before using, as separation is natural.
Nutrition
Flavour Variations to Try
One of the best things about homemade oat milk is how versatile it is. Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can transform it into different flavours that rival (or even beat!) shop-bought versions. Here are some delicious ways to upgrade your oat milk:
Classic Vanilla Oat Milk – Add 1 tsp pure vanilla extract or scrape half a vanilla pod into the blender. Perfect for adding a subtle sweetness to porridge, coffee, or baking.
Rich Chocolate Oat Milk – Blend in 2 tsp cocoa powder + 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave. Tastes just like chocolate milkshake – but dairy-free and guilt-free!
Golden Cinnamon Oat Milk – Stir in ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (or nutmeg) for a warming, spiced drink. Ideal for cosy autumn nights or served warm with biscuits. Pair with baked crumpets or pancakes for a real treat.
Barista-Style Creamy Oat Milk РUse 750 ml water instead of 1 litre for a thicker, creamier texture. Froths beautifully in lattes, cappuccinos, and hot chocolates. A must-try for coffee lovers who want that caf̩-quality finish at home.
Berry Oat Milk Smoothie Twist – Add a handful of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries before blending. Sweet and fruity, and packed – perfect for summer mornings.
Coconut Oat Milk Fusion – Blend in 1 tbsp desiccated coconut or a splash of coconut extract. A tropical twist that works well in smoothies or served over granola.
Honey & Mint Oat Milk (non-vegan option) – Sweeten with a drizzle of honey and blend with fresh mint leaves. Refreshing, light, and perfect chilled over ice.
The beauty of oat milk is that you can experiment endlessly. From indulgent chocolatey versions to light, fruity twists, it adapts to every craving. Why not batch-make a few flavours, bottle them up, and have your very own vegan milk bar at home?
Serving Ideas
Homemade oat milk isn’t just a drink — it’s a versatile kitchen essential that can elevate both everyday meals and special treats. Here are some creative ways to enjoy it:
Hot Drinks – Froth it into a silky latte, cappuccino, or hot chocolate. Add a splash to English breakfast tea or chai for a naturally creamy finish. Blend with cocoa and cinnamon for a cosy winter warmer.
Breakfast Bowls – Pour over crunchy granola, muesli, or cereal for a refreshing start to the day. Pair with warm porridge for the ultimate oat-on-oat breakfast. Use chilled oat milk for overnight oats — soak them overnight with fruit and spices for a ready-to-go breakfast.
Smoothies & Shakes – Blend with bananas, berries, or mango for a nutrient-packed smoothie. Add protein powder for a post-workout shake that’s vegan and dairy-free. Try a chocolate oat milk smoothie with cocoa, dates, and ice for a guilt-free dessert drink.
Baking & Cooking – Swap it for dairy milk in pancakes, muffins, or cupcakes — no one will taste the difference. Use it in creamy soups, sauces, or even mashed potatoes for a lighter, plant-based twist. Stir into risottos or curries where you’d normally use cream for added creaminess.
Desserts – Turn it into oat milk ice cream with vanilla and maple syrup. Use as the base for vegan custard, rice pudding, or chia seed pudding. Blend into milkshakes with strawberries, chocolate, or peanut butter.
As a Refreshing Drink – Enjoy a chilled glass on its own — it’s simple, clean, and hydrating. Serve flavoured versions (vanilla, chocolate, or cinnamon) at brunches and parties. Pour over ice with a sprig of mint for a cool summer drink.
Whether you’re enjoying it with breakfast, blending it into a smoothie, or using it as a base for vegan cooking and baking, homemade oat milk is endlessly versatile. Once you start experimenting, you’ll never want to go back to shop-bought cartons.
Making oat milk at home is quick, affordable, and satisfying. Not only is it fresher and cheaper than shop-bought, but it’s also kinder to the planet and endlessly customisable. Whether you enjoy it in your morning latte, over cereal, or in a creamy dessert, oat milk is a staple every kitchen should have.
👉 Ready to give it a go? Grab your oats, blend up a batch, and taste the difference today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does oat milk froth for coffee?
Yes — make barista oat milk by reducing water to 750 ml and/or adding 1 tsp oil.
How long does homemade oat milk last?
Up to 5 days in the fridge, stored in a sealed glass bottle. Shake before pouring.
Can I heat oat milk?
Yes, but gently. Don’t boil — it may thicken.
What do I do with leftover oat pulp?
Mix into porridge, smoothies, muffins, or bread for extra fibre.