Cashew milk is a creamy, delicious, and incredibly versatile plant-based milk alternative that’s perfect for anyone embracing a raw vegan lifestyle. Unlike store-bought versions that often contain preservatives and added sugars, homemade raw cashew milk is pure, fresh, and packed with natural nutrients.
It’s wonderfully smooth and subtly sweet, making it a fantastic base for smoothies, coffee, cereals, or just a refreshing glass on its own. Making cashew milk at home is quick and simple, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time.
Whether you’re new to raw veganism or simply looking to add a nutritious twist to your dairy-free milk options, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through the easy steps to create your own raw cashew milk, share tips to customize it, and explore how to incorporate it into your daily meals. Let’s dive in and turn those humble cashews into a creamy delight you’ll love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This raw cashew milk recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First off, it’s made from whole, raw cashews, giving you full control over the quality and flavor without any additives or preservatives.
The milk is naturally creamy and smooth, eliminating the need for emulsifiers or stabilizers. It’s also incredibly easy to make, requiring no cooking or complicated steps.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it plain or customize it with natural sweeteners, vanilla, or even a pinch of sea salt.
Plus, it’s packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nourishing choice for your body. Whether you’re using it in recipes or sipping it fresh, raw cashew milk adds a rich texture and subtle nutty flavor that elevates any dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked overnight or at least 4 hours)
- 4 cups filtered water
- 1-2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or agave nectar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, enhances flavor)
Equipment
- High-speed blender (essential for smooth texture)
- Nut milk bag or fine mesh strainer (to strain the milk)
- Large bowl (to catch the milk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Glass jar or bottle (for storage)
Instructions
- Soak the cashews: Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover them with filtered water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 4 hours to soften. This helps achieve a smoother milk and aids digestion.
- Drain and rinse: After soaking, drain the cashews and rinse them under cold water to remove any residue.
- Blend cashews and water: Add the soaked cashews and 4 cups of filtered water to your high-speed blender. Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
- Add flavorings: Add the maple syrup or agave nectar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt if using. Blend again for 10-15 seconds to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Strain the milk: Pour the blended mixture through a nut milk bag or fine mesh strainer into a large bowl. Gently squeeze or press to extract as much milk as possible. Cashew milk is naturally creamy, so straining is optional if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- Transfer and refrigerate: Pour the freshly made cashew milk into a glass jar or bottle with a tight lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Shake well before each use, as natural separation may occur.
Tips & Variations
“For the creamiest milk, always use raw cashews and soak them well. If you want a richer flavor, try adding a few soaked dates instead of maple syrup.”
- Sweeteners: Swap maple syrup for raw honey (if not strictly vegan), medjool dates, or coconut sugar.
- Flavor twists: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a small piece of fresh ginger for a spicy kick.
- Thicker milk: Use less water for creamier milk that works great in desserts or coffee.
- Unstrained option: For a fiber-rich version, skip straining and enjoy the pulp along with the milk.
- Storage tip: Homemade cashew milk separates naturally; just give it a good shake before using.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per 1 cup (240 ml) |
---|---|
Calories | 70-80 kcal |
Fat | 5-6 g |
Carbohydrates | 3-4 g |
Protein | 2-3 g |
Calcium | 10-15 mg |
Vitamin E | 0.5 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Raw cashew milk is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Pour it over your morning cereal or granola for a creamy touch.
Use it as a base for smoothies or protein shakes to add richness without dairy. It’s also perfect for adding to coffee or tea as a luscious dairy-free creamer.
For the adventurous cook, try using cashew milk in raw vegan desserts like puddings and ice creams, or in savory recipes like creamy salad dressings and sauces. You can find inspiration in our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe where cashew milk can substitute traditional dairy beautifully.
Conclusion
Making your own raw cashew milk is a simple and rewarding way to enjoy a fresh, nutritious, and creamy plant-based milk without any preservatives or additives. This recipe is quick, adaptable, and perfect for anyone following a raw vegan or dairy-free lifestyle.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can customize your cashew milk to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer it sweetened, flavored, or plain.
The benefits of raw cashew milk extend beyond just flavor; it’s packed with healthy fats and essential nutrients that support overall wellness. Use it as a delicious alternative in countless recipes or simply sip it on its own for a refreshing treat.
If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out other creative ideas like our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or try your hand at the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe for more culinary inspiration.
Happy blending and enjoy your homemade raw cashew milk!
📖 Recipe Card: Cashew Milk Recipe Raw Vegan
Description: A creamy and smooth raw vegan cashew milk made with simple ingredients. Perfect for dairy-free diets and easy to prepare at home.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M
Servings: 4 cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 4 cups filtered water
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1 date (optional for sweetness)
Instructions
- Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Drain and rinse soaked cashews.
- Add cashews and 4 cups filtered water to a blender.
- Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, sea salt, and date if using.
- Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Strain through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth for extra smoothness (optional).
- Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition: Calories: 160 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 13g | Carbs: 8g
{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Cashew Milk Recipe Raw Vegan”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A creamy and smooth raw vegan cashew milk made with simple ingredients. Perfect for dairy-free diets and easy to prepare at home.”, “prepTime”: “PT10M”, “cookTime”: “PT0M”, “totalTime”: “PT10M”, “recipeYield”: “4 cups”, “recipeIngredient”: [“1 cup raw cashews”, “4 cups filtered water”, “1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave (optional)”, “1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)”, “Pinch of sea salt”, “1 date (optional for sweetness)”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Drain and rinse soaked cashews.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add cashews and 4 cups filtered water to a blender.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add maple syrup, vanilla extract, sea salt, and date if using.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Blend on high for 1-2 minutes until smooth and creamy.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Strain through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth for extra smoothness (optional).”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “160”, “proteinContent”: “5g”, “fatContent”: “13g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “8g”}}