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Homemade almond milk is easier than you think. And, making clean almond milk at home is incredibly satisfying and delicious. It gives you that feeling of accomplishment and tastes infinitely better than anything you can buy at the store.
Why this DIY Almond Milk Rawks
You might wonder why I like making my own nut milk with so many store bought varieties available… and that’s a great question! I make my own for 2 reasons: cost and ingredients.
Cost: I broke down the cost of making my own milk, even with the investment of the Almond Cow, and found it was cheaper. Yet that doesn’t mean I only make my own milk. When in a pinch, I will buy Elmhurst (it’s great, just a lil’ pricey). I did a Best Almond Milk Brands blog post where I tested a variety of brands. So you can see what I consider the best ones (and why).
Ingredients: Making your own almond milk guarantees the cleanest, freshest result, which is why I love doing it. You know exactly what is in it! I think using a blender is the best way to go, yet the Almond Cow method is a great runner up.
Homemade plant-based almond milk is creamy, wholesome and 100% natural – no artificial flavors or stabilizers. Today I’m teaching you how to make almond milk in 3 different ways, plus ways to use your new fav beverage.
Ingredients + Tools You’ll Need
This guide helps you create creamy, flavorful almond milk you’ll love to use in drinks, recipes, or on its own. If you’re wondering about how to make an almond milk, here’s what you need:
- Blender: A high-speed blender is essential to break down the almonds into a smooth, creamy base.
- Fine Mesh Sieve: Perfect for straining out any almond pulp, leaving you with silky almond milk.
- Cheesecloth or Nut Milk Bag: A reusable tool to easily squeeze out every drop of milk.
- Mason Jars or Glass Containers with Lids: Ideal for storing your freshly made almond milk. Glass helps keep it fresh and odor-free.
- Raw Almonds: Use raw, unsalted almonds as the base. They’re packed with nutrients and ensure a clean, neutral flavor.
- Filtered Water: Clean, filtered water is key to achieving the freshest taste.
- Lemon: A splash of fresh lemon juice adds a subtle brightness and helps enhance the flavor.
- Sea Salt: Just a pinch brings out the natural sweetness and balances the flavors.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note to your almond milk.
- Pure Maple Syrup or Preferred Sweetener: Adjust to taste with a natural sweetener for a touch of sweetness.
This recipe uses plant-based ingredients to create almond milk that’s fresher than store-bought!
How to Make Almond Milk: Three Easy Methods
I love how accessible and convenient it’s become to make your own almond milk. Whether you make it in a blender, with Almond Cow, or with the help of Joi, it’s so easy to make quality nut milk. I make plant-based almond milk weekly at my house and can’t wait for you to start this tradition too.
Let’s break down the three ways of how to make almond milk. Then, you decide which version is best for you.
Method #1: How to Make Almond Milk with a blender
Nothing tastes better than this version… in my opinion. It’s incredibly easy, but a little more time consuming than the other methods. Yet once you taste it, you’ll see what I mean.
While the recipe is simple, I like to use lemon juice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract as well (and I think you’ll agree).
Soak the Almonds
Step 1: Measure 1 cup of raw almonds into a bowl or mason jar with space.
Step 2: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
Step 3: Fill up with filtered water.
Step 4: Cover and allow to soak for at least 8 hours or overnight. The almonds will really absorb a lot of water, so be sure to use enough water!
Drain and Rinse Almonds
Step 1: Pour the soaked almonds into a sieve.
Step 2: Drain and rinse almonds well. I like to use a sieve to make it easy and not lose any almonds down the drain.
Step 3: Place almonds in a blender.
Step 4: Add 3 cups filtered water
Blend and Strain the Almonds
Step 1: Blend almonds to a creamy consistency (the fewer chunks, the better).
Step 2: Set a sieve on top of a container. Put cheesecloth on top of that. Pour the nut milk through the cheesecloth bag (or a nut sack) with a container underneath to catch the liquid.
Step 3: Squeeze the cheesecloth to allow the liquid to seep through into the container.
If you’re not familiar with straining options, here’s a photo to help you identify them. You can buy nut milk sacks online through Amazon or at most cooking stores like Sur La Table and William Sonoma. I strongly suggest a fine mesh sleeve as well— I use this at least once a week to rinse and drain beans or when making almond milk.
Straining the blender contents isn’t 100% necessary, yet it does remove the pulp which can make the milk taste gritty. Some people prefer to use the milk unstrained, so it’s totally up to you! I def prefer straining it– it’s incredible and will make you never want to buy store-bought nut milk again.
Flavors and Sweeteners
You can enjoy your homemade milk just as it is: pure almonds and water. Or you can add a little love to take it to a whole new level. I like to do a lil’ sea salt and vanilla extract as well as maple syrup. My kids are much happier drinking it when I add these flavors and natural sweeteners.
Step 1: Add a pinch of sea salt to the milk (you can do this while blending or afterwards)
Step 2: Add one teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Step 3: Add one-two teaspoons of pure maple syrup. You can also use honey, agave or a simple syrup if you prefer. I love maple syrup for the rich taste and and nutrients it provides.
Step 4: Pour through a funnel to prevent spills.
What to do with Almond Pulp
When using the Almond Cow or a blender, you’ll have leftover almond pulp. You don’t have to throw it away! This can be dried and used in granola, added to a smoothie for extra fiber, put in oatmeal, or as a yogurt topping. This creates a zero waste product!
Method #2: How to Make Almond Milk with Almond Cow
When the Almond Cow first came out, I was like: can it really be worth the cost?! The answer is yes… and no. Almond Cow is a milking machine that can blend plant milk in minutes. This machine costs $245, yet can make 5 cups of milk using 1 cup of raw almonds (the less water you use the creamier it gets).
For a quick and easy method, the Almond Cow offers convenience. The whole process from start to clean up took less than 5 minutes, and the recipe I followed was simple and straight forward. But, the final product isn’t as good as the blender method above.
The Almond Cow “rushes” the process and makes a less flavorful, frothy version of nut milk. Yet clean up is SO much easier and the entire process is quick—which is why I have an Almond Cow. Even though it has almond in its name, the Almond Cow can also make oat, coconut, cashew, hemp, and walnut milk.
Since I’m an Almond Cow affiliate, you can save $25 off your purchase with Almond Cow. Use code: SimpleGreenSmoothies at checkout.
Method #3: How to Make Almond Milk with Joi Nutbase
Joi Nutbase has taken almonds and blended them into a paste. This paste is 100% almond— nothing else. Plus, they are using the entire nut (so also zero-waste), and it has a shelf life of 18 months…
To make 1 cup of almond milk, just add 1 tablespoon of Almond Joi paste to 1 cup of filtered water, and blend for 30 seconds. That’s literally it! You can up the creaminess by adding 2 tablespoons of Joi to 1 cup of filtered water.
Even after settling, this milk kept its frothy top. It tasted super creamy, and was a little less dry than the Almond Cow’s version. Fun fact: 27 cups of almond milk can be made from 1 container of Joi, retailing for $19.99. That’s less than $1 per cup! 1 cup of this milk is 4 grams of protein as well— woot, woot!
Try Joi Nutbase 10% off w/code “simplegreensmoothies”.
How to Store Homemade Almond Milk
No matter which of the three methods above you choose, you’ll be way happier with the result compared to most store bought milk. Homemade clean almond milk doesn’t have any shelf stabilizers, which means it won’t stay “fresh” as long. I suggest:
- Store in a clean, glass container with a lid. Mason jars as well as carafes work great.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days. The almonds and water will separate in the fridge, so give it a good shake before using.
How to Use Almond Milk in Recipes
Now that you know how to make almond milk, how will you use this deliciously fresh beverage? I’ve got a few ideas to get you started:
In beverages:
You can pretty much swap in plant-based milk anywhere you use regular milk, baked goods or otherwise. It makes a deliciously creamy smoothie as well.
Common Questions
Soak almonds in filtered water with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for at least 8 hours. Drain, then add soaked almonds to a blender with 3 cups of water. Blend for several minutes, until smooth.
Using a nut milk bag (or cheese cloth/tea towel) strain the ‘milk’ into a pitcher. Once the blender is emptied into the milk bag, squeeze as much liquid out of the almond pulp as you can. If you want your milk sweetened, add a bit of maple syrup to the finished product (or add in a date).
I recommend soaking almonds for at least 8 hours, or overnight for almond milk. If you’re soaking them overnight, place them in the fridge to ensure they stay fresh while soaking. If you need to make a quick batch of almond milk, you can soak in steaming water for 30 minutes to speed up the process. The almonds won’t be quite as soft, yet will still work fine for the milk.
No need to use a nut milk bag to enjoy homemade almond milk. You can use a clean tea towel or cheese cloth just as easily.
Yes, almond milk is considered vegan. It’s made from almonds and water, making it a plant-based alternative to dairy milk. Most almond milk products are free from non-vegan ingredients, but it’s always a good idea to double-check the label. Some brands may add flavorings, thickeners, or vitamins that could occasionally come from animal sources.
Yes, you can heat almond milk! It’s a versatile plant-based milk that warms up well for use in coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or cooking. To heat almond milk:
Use Low to Medium Heat: Almond milk can scorch or curdle if heated too quickly. Warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave.
Stir Often: This helps distribute the heat evenly and prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pot or forming a skin.
Avoid Boiling: Almond milk may separate if it reaches a rolling boil, so keep the heat gentle.
More Homemade Milk Recipes
I’ve learned how to make all kinds of dairy-free milks since I have preferences on which kind to use depending on the recipe. Here’s my list of homemade milks:
Rate + review this recipe once you’ve tried it; I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Your feedback helps me and all the readers in this community. And if you’re interested in more plant-based recipes (and exclusive content), sign up for my weekly recipe newsletter.
How to Make Almond Milk
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw almonds organic if possible
- 3 cups water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- pinch sea salt
- 1-2 tsp maple syrup optional
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Place 1 cup of almonds in a medium bowl. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and completely cover almonds with filtered water. Soak for at least 8 hours or overnight. The almonds will really absorb a lot of water, so be sure to use enough water! Add more if needed.
- Pour the soaked almonds into a sieve. Drain and rinse well. Place almonds in blender with 3 cups water.
- Blend on high speed for several minutes until thick and smooth. There will be quite a bit of almond pulp mixed in with the milk.
- Set a sieve on top of a bowl with a cheese cloth over the sieve. Pour the almond milk through the cheesecloth + sieve into the bowl, catching as much liquid as possible. Squeeze the cheesecloth tightly to allow the liquid to completely seep through into the container.
- Mix in sea salt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract (if adding) to the separated milk.
- Transfer the milk to a quart size jar or glass bottle with a lid. For a thinner milk, add a little more filtered water to make it an even quart. Refrigerate immediately. The milk is best consumed within the first 2-3 days and must be kept refrigerated. It will separate as it sits. It is fine to drink and use, simply shake the bottle and the milk will be creamy again.
Equipment
Video
Notes
- Be sure to sanitize all of your bowls, utensils, blender, jar and lids before making the milk to prevent any contamination.
- If you want to keep some of the pulp in your milk, simply strain through a sieve alone. Alternately you can use a nut milk bag instead of cheese cloth.
- If the milk smells “off” best not to drink it in case it has spoiled. Drink or use within 3-4 days, but sometimes it will keep for a week.
- Add other flavors or spices, as desired. Example – cinnamon and a little almond extract.
- Honey or date syrup can be used in place of the maple syrup. You can also place a date in the blender with the soaked almonds and blend together.
- Do not freeze the almond milk, the texture will be affected.
- This method can be used on a variety of nuts and seeds!
Can I used well water instead of filtered water? If not, is filtered water the same as distilled water that can be purchased at a pharmacy? Any other options?
Well water is actually a rawkin option here! It usually contains more natural minerals than filtered water, which is a bonus. Distilled water and filtered water are diff. Filtered water has been cleaned of contaminants, while distilled has also had minerals and salts removed through a boiling process. Bottom line is that your well water would be an awesome choice! Bet ya never thought you’d be getting milk from your well! 😉
This was SO fun to make, and delicious! I liked drinking the sweetened version plain, but would make it without the maple syrup when using it for cooking/baking
It’s great being able to make your own almond milk, then you don’t have to worry about all the crazy preservatives that are often in the store-bought milks.
Hi Jen,
I make almond milk regularly and I’ve never come across he addition of lemon juice! Amazing! Is that for flavor or does it help with creaminess or better soaking?
Hi Nazish,
Adding lemon to homemade almond milk, helps your body absorb all of the almond’s nutrients.
Cheers
Hi, I wanted to know where can I find nut milk bags and cheese cloths?
Hi Anisha,
You can find cheese cloth or nut milk bags at a variety of places. Try your local grocery, hardware, kitchen supply, or craft store!
Hope this helps!
Can you make other smothies using this? Instead of store bought almond milk?
Hi Alma,
Yes! We love making our own almond milk to blend in our green smoothies! It’s a great + easy way to ensure your almond milk is free of additives + preservatives!
Cheers 🙂
Yes you can use home made almond milk for smoothies.
What do we do with the pulp? Can we make almond butter with it?
Hi Alex,
Not sure what to do with the leftover almond pulp? There are a ton of fantastic uses for almond pulp such as dehydrated cookies, crusts, + granola…but my favorite use for almond pulp is this insanely easy body scrub from The Blender Girl which is fantastic for removing dead skin cells and gently adding moisture to your skin…
Hi Gloria, Cam you make with all different nuts,etc. Cashew milk, peanut butter milk? Might sound silly, But what do you think.?
Thank you Nick……. 🙂
Hi Nick,
Of course! We love homemade cashew milk, it’s packed with protein, iron + magnesium!
Cheers 🙂
Is the lemon juice a necessity? I didn’t have it on hand.
Hi Jessica,
Great question! Adding lemon to homemade almond milk, helps your body absorb all of the almond’s nutrients. So while not necessary, it’s a great addition for your body.
Cheers 🙂
This may seem in line with all natural…that said, if I wanted to make a gallon of almond milk at a time, is there a natural preservative I could add to make the milk last 7 days?
Also, I’ve researched a second method of making almond milk. Using 2 tlbs of raw almond butter with 4 cups of water. Easier and less messy. What are your thoughts on that method?
Ps – this site is the cat’s meow!
Hi HonestTexan,
Thank you so much for reaching out! We love our recipe because it is free of additives or preservatives! We suggest enjoying your homemade almond milk within 3-4 days, but sometimes it will keep for a week. If the milk smells “off” best not to drink it in case it has spoiled.
I personally haven’t tried using raw almond butter, but it’s worth a try!
Cheers 🙂
Id like to try this homemade almond milk recipe. Do we use raw almond in this recipe? Or we have to boil the almond before we mix the almond with lemon juice for a night? Thanks.
Hi Gloria,
Great question! We use raw almonds in this recipe. Check back and let us know how you like making your own almond milk!
Cheers 🙂
To prep for future use can you presoak the almonds and then freeze them for later? How long can you freeze them?
Hi CC,
Great question! I personally haven’t tried freezing pre-soaked almonds, but I did some research + nutritionist suggest allowing your nuts to throughly dry prior to freezing. Please let us know how this works for you, as it will hopefully allow you additional flexibility when blendin’ with almonds!
Keep in touch!
Amanda, Simple Green Smoothies
It never occurred to me to leave the pulp in. That sure makes it easier! I know it will increase caloroes, but I’m leaving it in today!
Hi Brenda,
Let us know how you like blendin’ with the pulp included.
Cheers!
Green Smoothie My own recipe
I tried
1 cups of Spinach
1 whole Avocados
1 Bananas
I pear
2 cups cucumber juice (I juiced the cucumber in the juicer and presto I got my cucumber juice)
It tastes good for me. There was a tiny hint of spinach but the avocado is much stronger since I use one whole plus the cucumber juice is so good tasting.
Try it.
Hi Enah,
Thank you so much for sharing your recipe! Cheers 🙂
I just made the Meal on the Go Green Smoothie for my husband. Yesterday I took him to the ER with something he swallowed and didn’t go down. He is 82 and really tired all the time and think I am crazy wanting all these green smoothie things. He hates buying all the greens and says I spend too much money on food now. I have tried for about 6 months to get him to drink at least a pint each day as he eats tv dinners and ice cream and sweet rolls. That’s his diet. And he wonders why he is wiped put all the time. — Anyway back to the reason I am writing. The recipe calls for 2 C of almond milk. I had about that much in the fridge but it was store bought. When I looked at it , it didn’t look right and went out of date tomorrow. I was afraid to use it so I had some almonds in the freezer and took about half cup and 2 cups of water and threw them in the Vita Mix. Not sure what would happen as never did that before and being frozen were pretty hard.—-Presto I had almond milk for the smoothie. I didn’t strain it and the berries and banana were frozen.(I buy the mixed frozen berries at Sams Club) Whoops, I just realized I forgot the 1/4 C oats. Oh well. He ate that for breakfast. lol He only wanted a smoothie if it tastes good so he approved of the taste and we are drinking it as we speak. I hope it will give him a little pick up. Thanks .
Hi Fran,
We are happy to hear your husband is doing well following his hospital visit! Storing almonds in the freezer is a great way to make fresh almond milk when you’re in a pinch!
Hi, just wondering how you add the vanilla bean?
Hi Mariela,
After you’ve strained the almonds, add the vanilla bean. The best way to add the vanilla bean is to cut the bean in half length-wise + scrap out the glorious vanilla beans inside! I like to call it vanilla caviar! 🙂
Hi,
Do I use half a lemon or whole? I see a half lemon in the picture it the recipe just says “a lemon.”
Hi Shona,
It’s your preference! Using half or a whole lemon will provide you with enough lemon juice to give you the nutritional benefits!