What is Oat Milk?
Oat milk extracts plant material with water from whole oat grains. The best oat milk has a rich, creamy consistency from oats and water. Oat milk is a good source of nutrients and vitamins in our diets. It contains calcium, minerals, protein, and fiber.
Further, many people find oat milk more filling and tasty in beverages. Numerous options are available, each with a unique flavor and nutritional value.
How to Make Oat Milk at Home
To make oat milk at home, you can try out the following oat milk recipe:
Time: 5 minutes
Serving size: 4 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Equipment Needed
- Blender
- Fine mesh strainer
- Large bowl
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup whole rolled oats
- 3 cups water
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Combine the oats, water, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt in a blender for 30 seconds.
- Place a fine mesh strainer over a big bowl and strain the milk over it without pressing any excess pulp. This will result in a creamier, less grainy, and sticky texture.
- If desired, add more maple syrup to taste, then allow it to chill overnight. If you want to consume your oat milk immediately, add ice – the flavor is finest when thoroughly cooled.
Notes
If you are gluten intolerant, go for certified gluten-free oats. The natural separation will occur as the oat milk sits in the refrigerator.
Our Preferred Oat Milk Brand
Among the many oat milk brands available, our top brand is the Pacific Foods Organic Oat Vanilla Plant-Based Beverage. Made from organic whole-grain oats, it has a natural flavor with real vanilla, giving it a delicious taste without adding sugars or artificial flavors.
Also, it is vegan, has low-fat content, does not include lactose, cholesterol, or soy, and is an excellent source of riboflavin and vitamin D.
Other Top Oat Milk Picks
- Pacific Foods Organic Oat Vanilla Plant-Based Beverage: Best overall
- ELMHURST Unsweetened Oat Milk: Best oat milk for cooking and baking
- Oatsome Organic Oat Milk, 6 Count Cartons: Best organic oat milk
- Califia Farms - Oat Barista Blend Oat Milk, Shelf Stable, Dairy Free, Plant Based, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, High Calcium, Milk Frother, Creamer, Oatmilk: Best oat milk for lattes
- Planet Oat Oatmilk, Vanilla: Best vanilla oat milk
- Dream, Oat Dream Original: Best flavor oat milk
Our Expert Oat Milk Reviews Below
Oat milk, in particular, has recently been gaining popularity, partly because it is one of the more sustainable plant-based kinds of milk available. You will adore its versatility—whether in smoothies, coffee, baking, or just drinking it straight up. This fast-growing beverage is delicious and beneficial.
So many new options are on the shelf, transforming it from a simple beverage to a high-protein glass, chocolatey delight, or richer latte. Here are our recommendations for the top oat milk on the market.
Pacific Foods Organic Oat Vanilla Plant-Based Beverage: Best Overall
Amazon’s Choice in Oat Milks by Pacific Foods
Brand: Pacific Foods
Flavor/s: Organic oat, organic oat vanilla
Diet type: USDA organic, kosher
Allergen info: Milk-free
Volume: 32 fluid ounces (946.4 milliliters)
About This Item
This delicious extra creamy oat milk contains a full serving of whole grains, and the oats’ sweetness shines through. It is an excellent alternative to milk used in various dishes, ranging from casseroles to cupcakes and beverages.
Additionally, it contains proteins, is vegan, has a low-fat content, does not include lactose, cholesterol, or soy, and is an excellent source of riboflavin and vitamin D. Only organic oats were used in the preparation process. Further, the carton packaging of this oat milk is BPA-free.
ELMHURST Unsweetened Oat Milk: Best Oat Milk for Cooking and Baking
Brand: Elmhurst
Unsweetened: Yes
Diet type: Vegan, gluten-free
Allergen info: Gluten-free, dairy-free
Volume: 32 fluid ounces (946.4 milliliters)
About This Item
Elmhurst Unsweetened Oat Milk is among the best products on our list. It contains only three ingredients: filtered water, whole-grain oats, and salt. Many users also note that it tastes nice and has a creamy texture.
Because it is thinner than other oat milk products, it is unsuitable for drinking or adding to coffee. If you like baking or cooking with skim or low-fat dairy milk, this is one of the better possibilities.
You can buy many cartons of this oat milk to store in your cupboard because it is shelf-stable until you open it.
Additionally, the company sells the best chocolate oat milk, which contains added sugar.
Oatsome Organic Oat Milk, 6 Count Cartons: Best Organic Oat Milk
Amazon’s Choice in Oat Milks by Oatsome
Brand: Oatsome
Diet type: USDA organic, kosher
Allergen info: Gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, lactose-free, milk-free
Volume: 202.86 fluid ounces (6002.8 milliliters)
About This Item
Oatsome has a subtle and creamy flavor but contains no dairy, nuts, added sugar, or artificial components. You can drink this milk without worrying about the discomfort caused by lactose or any other components.
Gluten-free organic oats, riboflavin, vitamin D, and other all-natural ingredients go into producing this plant-based milk. You can use it as a replacement for milk without sacrificing any of the flavor or creaminess of the milk.
Also, you can use this organic milk instead of regular milk in any beverage or dish that usually calls for milk, including lattes, cereal, oatmeal, baked goods, and savory dishes. This is due to the milk’s dairy-like consistency and flavor.
Moreover, this oat drink lacks genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and gluten and is USDA certified. It is a vegan and environmentally friendly alternative to whole, coconut, and soy milk.
Oatsome Oat Milk is an excellent choice for a dairy-free coffee creamer or a frother in a latte. Use the mixture immediately after chilling and shaking for the greatest frothing results.
Califia Farms - Oat Barista Blend Oat Milk, Shelf Stable, Dairy Free, Plant Based, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, High Calcium, Milk Frother, Creamer, Oatmilk: Best Oat Milk for Lattes
Brand: Califia Farms
Flavor/s: Oat barista original, pumpkin spice oat barista, vanilla oat barista blend
Diet type: Kosher
Allergen info: Almond-free
Volume: 32 fluid ounces (946.4 milliliters)
About This Item
If you like taking oat milk lattes in the morning, you will require oat milk that heats and froths like regular dairy milk. Numerous alternative milk brands produce “barista blends” specifically for this purpose, and Califia Farms has an outstanding oat-based blend.
This oat milk is ideal for making lattes, whipping up frothy, and imparting robust flavor to your morning beverages. It contains no gums or stabilizers, is devoid of gluten and carrageenan, and is non-GMO. The carton is shelf-stable until opened, so you can keep a few cartons to help whenever the latte craving arises.
Planet Oat Oatmilk, Vanilla: Best Vanilla Oat Milk
Brand: Planet Oat
Flavor/s: Vanilla
Diet type: Gluten-free
Allergen info: Dairy-free, lactose-free, soy-free, tree nut-free, peanut-free
Volume: 52 fluid ounces (1536.83 milliliters)
About This Item
The vanilla flavor of Plant Oat’s Oat Milk makes it ideal for blending into smoothies, adding to porridge, or drinking independently. It has a velvety texture, a subtle vanilla flavor, and a light sweetness. Additionally, it is gluten-free and non-GMO.
Dream, Oat Dream Original: Best Flavor Oat Milk
Brand: Dream
Diet type: Vegan
Allergen info: Nut-free, dairy-free
Volume: 32 fluid ounces (946.4 milliliters)
About This Item
Creamy and smooth Dream, Oat Dream Original oat milk contains nutritious oats for a delicious dairy-free alternative. This oat beverage is kosher certified, non-GMO, and a good source of calcium, vitamins B12, and D. This makes it ideal for persons with dietary restrictions or those trying to reduce their consumption of animal products.
Dream Oat is lactose, dairy, nut, and soy-free. It has a smooth texture, the capacity to foam, and a flavor that enhances the inherent tastes of coffee. This oat drink is excellent whether you pour it over cereal, add it to your morning cup of coffee, or drink it cold by the glassful. It is nutrient-dense and flavorful, so you’ll relish every sip.
What to Look for in Oat Milk Brands
Taste
Oat milk has a distinct flavor comparable to cow’s milk but with a hint of sweet oat flavor. Depending on the components, some will be sweeter than others. Even unsweetened oat milk has a sweet, “oaty” flavor.
Texture
The thickness of oat milk varies based on the manufacturer and the type (normal, low fat, etc.). Thicker oat milk works better in smoothies, coffee, and baking. There are even barista editions of oat milk with a creamy texture and foam up for the coffee enthusiast in the family.
Ingredients
Read the label to find precisely what’s in the carton of oat milk you’re considering purchasing. Some milk contains additives or sugar to make the milk thicker and creamier. Some cartons will bear certifications that describe the milk, such as gluten-free.
If you have any food allergies or sensitivities in your family or want the purest oat milk possible, keep an eye on the ingredient list.
Health Benefits of Oatmilk
Studies indicate that oats and oat milk may provide several health benefits.
The Product is Vegan and Devoid of Lactose, Soy, and Nuts
For individuals with dietary restrictions, oat milk is a sensible choice. Due to its oats and water basis, it is vegan and free of nuts, soy, and lactose. Although naturally gluten-free, oats may get contaminated if processed in the same facilities as gluten-containing grains.
If you prefer gluten-free oat milk, examine the product’s label to ensure that the oats used are gluten-free. You can also create homemade oat milk using gluten-free certified oats.
An Exceptional Source of Vitamin B
Typically, oat milk contains vitamin B, such as riboflavin (B2) and vitamin B12. Vitamin B is necessary for optimal health and has numerous other advantages. For example, they may help reduce stress, prevent oxidative damage, and promote healthy nails, hair, and skin — particularly if you’re deficient in this group of vitamins (4, 5, 6).
Possible Lowering of LDL (Bad) Cholesterol
Beta-glucan, a soluble fiber associated with cardiac health benefits, is abundant in oat milk.
Beta-glucan forms a gel-like substance in the intestine that can bind to cholesterol and inhibit its absorption. This may help reduce blood cholesterol levels, particularly LDL (bad) cholesterol, which people associate with heart disease.
Also, the primary protein detected in LDL cholesterol is apolipoprotein B. It predicts heart disease risk more accurately than LDL cholesterol alone.
Beneficial To Bone Health
Typically, oat milk contains calcium and vitamin D, both beneficial to bone health. Calcium is essential for robust and healthy bones as the primary mineral in bone formation. A lack of calcium in your diet can cause your bones to become frail and more prone to fracture or break over time.
Vitamin D is also essential because it aids calcium absorption from the digestive tract. A deficiency in vitamin D can prevent the body from absorbing enough calcium, resulting in brittle bones.
Wide commercial varieties of oat milk are also an excellent source of vitamin B12. Several studies link this vitamin to healthy bones and a decreased risk of osteoporosis, a condition characterized by porous bones, especially in postmenopausal women.
Zero Saturated Fats
Oat milk contains unsaturated fats compared to cow’s milk which contains saturated fats.
Saturated fat is the type of fat we should eat less because it increases cholesterol levels.
Saturated fats are usually solid at room temperature and are mainly present in animal products. Also, oat milk contains zero trans fats and fatty acids, thus suitable for your health.
FAQs on Oat Milk
What are the Typical Oat Milk Ingredients?
Water and oat flour are the key ingredients of oat milk. Additional constituents, such as vegetable oil, salt, stabilizers, vitamin and mineral blends, sweeteners, and flavors, account for the differences between brands.
How is Oat Milk Made on a Large Scale?
Commercial oat milk results from combining oats and water, then milling the mixture to a fine consistency. They also add enzymes to the cereal starch to break it down and then extract the bran solids, leaving the liquid base behind.
Is Oat Milk Sweet?
Considering that taste is largely subjective, we will state that this milk has a sweet, thick flavor with a subtle oat flavor and a hint of nuttiness. Many claim that oat milk tastes more similar to conventional cow’s milk than other plant-based milk.
How Long Does Homemade Oat Milk Last?
You can keep homemade oat milk in the refrigerator for two to four days. The stabilizers in commercial oat milk give it an extended shelf life. Like dairy milk, you should keep oat milk in the coldest portion of the refrigerator and not on the door. Ensure you seal it and jiggle it before use.
Do You Get Sugar-Free Oat Milk?
There are, in fact, versions of oat milk available on the market that do not contain any added sugar. Oat milk sold in stores typically bears the word “unsweetened” or “no added sugar” on the container. It is essential to check the list of ingredients and the nutrition label to ensure no additional sweets or sugars.
Also, some goods made with oat milk may contain natural sugars from the oats themselves, but natural sugars are generally a better choice than added sugars.
Is Oat Milk a Suitable Substitute for Regular Milk?
Oat milk is a suitable substitute for conventional milk, and you can use it interchangeably in baking and cooking.
Do I Need to Refrigerate Oat Milk?
Several varieties of oat milk are shelf-stable, and you can store them in the pantry or cabinet until opening. Ensure you know whether the oat milk you purchase is shelf stable or needs refrigerating. Remember, you should refrigerate all varieties of oat milk after opening.
Is Oat Milk Good for You?
Yes, oat milk is good and has many benefits, as outlined in this article. Considering each brand’s ingredients and nutrition facts, most oat milk contains oats, water, oil, and added vitamins/minerals (a requirement of the FDA for non-dairy milk). Some brands end there, but most include gums and stabilizers to improve texture and shelf life.
Many reports from research show no evidence that stabilizers and gums have adverse effects on the body; however, if you have concerns, choose oat milk without them. You’ll also note that even “no-added-sugar” brands vary in sugar content because various methods of transforming oats into liquid yield varying amounts of sugar and carbohydrates.
Why Trust the Proud Italian?
Unlike other websites, we do not provide information for no apparent reason. Our research is a thorough and continually monitored process to ensure we achieve well-informed conclusions. With no room for bias or discrimination, our team of experts provides equal opportunity to all available brands of the product in question.
As a result, our outcomes are precise, and we always maintain objectivity. You can be sure that everything we provide is reliable; there is no cause to doubt it.
The End
You don’t have to give up flavor when enhancing the nutritional value of your drinks and meals. These six kinds of oat milk are velvety, hinting at sweetness, and loaded with beneficial nutrients. Using the best oat milk, you can make the ideal cup of coffee, smoothie, protein shake, favorite nutritious cereal, baked goods, and a glass of milk.
We recommend the Pacific Foods Organic Oat Vanilla Plant-Based Beverage for the best oat milk. It is vegan, has low-fat content, does not include lactose, cholesterol, or soy, and is an excellent riboflavin and vitamin D source.
Made from organic whole-grain oats, it has a natural flavor with real vanilla, giving it a delicious taste without adding sugars or artificial flavors.
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