This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Table of Contents
Tired of the same old almond or oat milk routine? I get it. I’m the same way. I love variety and believe this helps us get more nutrients in our body. So if you want another creamy, nutty, and nutritious non-dairy milk with 12 grams protein in a cup, give this hemp milk recipe a shot!
This plant-based wonder is easy to make at home, packed with benefits, and delicious in everything from your morning coffee to your favorite smoothie. Follow along to learn how to make hemp milk.
Why Hemp Milk Rawks
Before we dive into the how-to make this recipe, let’s talk about why you should consider adding hemp milk to your repertoire:
- Sustainable choice: Hemp is a sustainable crop that requires minimal water and pesticides.
- Nutrient-rich: Hemp seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition and contain more protein than almonds or rice. Plus, they’re a complete protein source, meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids. They’re also loaded with healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc.
- Creamy texture: Hemp milk boasts a naturally creamy texture, making it a satisfying alternative to dairy.
- Nutty flavor: It has a subtle, nutty flavor that’s versatile and complements both sweet and savory dishes.
- Easy to digest: Many people find hemp milk easier to digest than dairy or other nut milks.
This easy recipe is a great one for those that want a plant-based option yet can’t have nuts. It’s super creamy, simple ingredients and quite delicious.
Hemp Milk Ingredients
To successfully make this recipe you need a few items you might not already have on hand. They should be easy to find though, so don’t turn away just yet!
- Hemp hearts: You can find these in most grocery stores and online at Amazon. Look for organic ones and store in the fridge once opened for best quality.
- Maple syrup: It’s optional to sweeten this milk, yet eben just a little maple syrup really makes this incredibly tasty.
- Vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract is the most loved flavoring in non-dairy milk. Give it a try!
- Blender: You don’t need a high-powered blender, though it will make this easier! Check out my guide on the best blenders for your budget.
- Cheesecloth: Any time you make plant-based milk, you need a way to strain it. Whether you use a nut milk bag, a clean tea towel or cheesecloth, you want a way to remove the pulp (fiber) from the hemp milk.
Helpful Recipe Modifications
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sweetener to your preference. Maple syrup is my go to sweetener. Yet dates are also great natural sweetener, and add a bit of fiber. Make sure to blend very well!
- Flavor boost: Add a dash of cinnamon, cacao powder, or a few drops of almond extract for different flavor profiles.
- Thicker milk: Use less water for a thicker, creamier consistency or add more hemp hearts.
- Soaking: Some people swear by soaking hemp seeds for a few hours before blending. This is supposed to make the milk even smoother, and easier to digest. If you’re using a high-speed blender, I don’t see the need to do this.
- Smoothies: Hemp milk is fantastic in smoothies! It adds creaminess and a nutritional boost.
Once you learn how to make hemp milk, you can apply the same process to just about any seed you want to try— like sesame milk. Different kinds of milk act differently in recipes, so don’t be afraid to experiment until your smoothies and baked goods are just how you want them.
How to Make Hemp Milk
Unlike homemade almond milk, there’s really no need to soak hemp hearts before you blend them. They are already soft and perfectly ready to blend.
Measure 1 cup of hemp hearts and put in blender.
Add 3 cups of water straight into that blender.
Blend on high speed for about 2 minutes or until the seeds are completely liquified.
This may take longer depending on how high powered your blender is. I know some blenders have a milk function, so you can try that out too!
Add a dash of salt and vanilla extract.
Pour in a little maple syrup and blend again.
Strain the blender contents through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth into a glass bowl.
Squeeze the pulp until you get all the liquid out. You just worked hard for that milk, get all that you can!
If it’s too thick, feel free to add some more water.
Pour into a air-tight container and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
How to Use a Hemp Milk Maker
When the first non-dairy milk maker came out, I was like: can it really be worth the cost?! The answer is yes… and no. A plant-based milk maker can create this hemp milk recipe in 2 minutes… without the mess. A machine costs between $199-$499, yet can make 6 cups of milk using 1 cup of hemp hearts (the less water you use the creamier it gets). Here’s a few milk makers that I’ve used and think they are worth buying if you’re making almond milk weekly:
- Nama Milk Maker: Make fast, fresh barista-quality milk in this top of the line appliance. I loooove this machine! The Nama M1 extracts the most nutrients from the nuts, making the most nutrient-dense hemp milk. 10% off code: JENM1
- Almond Cow: Fresh non-dairy milk in minutes. The Almond Cow “rushes” the process and makes a less flavorful, frothy version of nut milk. Yet clean up is super easy and the entire process is quick. Even though it has almond in its name, the Almond Cow can also make oat, coconut, cashew, hemp, and walnut milk. Enjoy $25 off with code: JEN25
- Alfa Bot Milk Maker: This affordable Amazon appliance is a good entry level option.
Common Questions
Hemp milk offers a compelling array of nutritional benefits, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet. Its rich content of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids supports cardiovascular and cognitive health, while its status as a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids, distinguishes it from many other plant-based milks. Furthermore, hemp milk provides essential vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, and is often fortified with calcium and vitamin D, enhancing its nutritional profile.
The presence of omega-3 fatty acids and arginine may contribute to healthy blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease, and the balanced fatty acid profile can also promote healthy skin. Notably, hemp milk is naturally free of lactose, soy, and gluten, making it a suitable choice for individuals with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
Hemp milk made from hemp seeds does not naturally contain significant levels of CBD. However, CBD can be added to hemp milk by manufacturers if you’re buying it. So be sure to read the label!
Hemp milk has a mild, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor with an earthy undertone, often compared to other nut milks or sunflower seeds.
More Plant-Based Milk Recipes
You might also enjoy these other plant-based milk recipes I’ve created:
If you follow along and make this hemp milk recipe, share how it turns out in the comment box below. 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 Hemp Milk
Ingredients
- 1 cup hemp hearts
- 6 cups filtered water
- ⅛ tsp sea salt
- ⅛ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Place hemp hearts and water into a high speed blender container. Blend 2 minutes or until completely liquified. Add salt, vanilla and maple syrup (if using).
- Pour blender contents through a cheesecloth or nut milk bag into a large glass bowl. Squeeze the cheesecloth until you get all the liquid out.
- Transfer your newly made hemp milk into pitcher with a sealing lid. Discard the pulp from the cheesecloth.
Equipment
- cheesecloth (or nut milk bag)
Notes
- Fresh hemp milk should last 4-5 days in the refrigerator. It will separate while sitting, so be sure to shake it up before using.
- You can replace milk in almost any recipe with hemp milk, so don’t be afraid to try it in smoothies, baking and more.
- This recipe yields about 4 cups of milk.
- I like to freeze the hemp pulp in an ice cube tray to add to smoothies for an extra boost.
Just grabbed my Almond Cow to make this… It came out tasting slightly nutty and creamy like cashew milk. Yum!
Hi Olivia! The Almond Cow is the best! I’m convinced it can make any kind of milk delish, so glad you liked the hemp milk!
I love the idea of nut-free milk! Have you ever experimented with chia or flaxseed milk?
I have not, but if you try it, I would love to hear all about your results!
You can apply the same recipe directions to make chia or flaxseed milk!