Cheap Vegan Milk Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Dairy-Free

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Looking for an easy, budget-friendly way to enjoy delicious dairy-free milk at home? You’re in the right place.

Making your own vegan milk is not only a fantastic way to save money, but it also gives you full control over the ingredients. Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply searching for ways to cut down on your grocery bill, homemade plant-based milk is a game changer.

Store-bought vegan milk can get expensive, especially if you use it daily for cereal, baking, coffee, or smoothies. But what if I told you that you could make a week’s worth of creamy, delicious vegan milk for less than a dollar?

That’s right! With just a handful of pantry staples and a trusty blender, you’ll never need to run out for almond or oat milk again.

This easy, cheap vegan milk recipe is your ticket to healthier, more sustainable living—without sacrificing flavor or convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Budget-Friendly: Save up to 80% compared to store-bought plant milks. All you need are some oats (or rice, or seeds) and water!
  • Customizable: Adjust the thickness, sweetness, and flavorings to suit your taste. Add vanilla, dates, or even cocoa powder for a twist.
  • Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 10 minutes, with minimal cleanup.
  • Eco-Friendly: Reduce packaging waste by avoiding store-bought cartons.
  • No Additives: Free from gums, stabilizers, and preservatives often found in commercial options.
  • Perfect for all your needs—cereal, baking, coffee, or just a refreshing glass!

Ingredients

Ingredient Amount Notes
Rolled Oats (or brown rice, sunflower seeds)* 1 cup Use gluten-free oats for GF version
Water 4 cups Filtered for best taste
Salt (optional) 1/8 tsp Brings out flavor
Sweetener (optional: maple syrup, dates, agave) 1-2 tsp To taste
Vanilla extract (optional) 1/2 tsp For flavor

*See “Tips & Variations” for seed/rice alternatives

Equipment

  • High-speed blender (or standard blender)
  • Nut milk bag, fine mesh sieve, or cheesecloth
  • Large bowl (for straining)
  • Measuring cup and spoon
  • Storage bottle or jar (with tight-fitting lid)

Instructions

  1. Measure & Rinse:

    Measure 1 cup of rolled oats (or your chosen base). Place in a mesh sieve and rinse thoroughly under cold water.

    This helps remove starches and prevents slimy milk.

  2. Blend:

    Add rinsed oats to your blender with 4 cups of filtered water. Add a pinch of salt and any optional ingredients (1–2 tsp sweetener, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract).

    Tip: For creamier milk, use less water (3 cups). For lighter milk, use 5 cups.

  3. Process:

    Blend on high for 30–45 seconds. Don’t over-blend—this can make the milk gummy.

  4. Strain:

    Place your nut milk bag, cheesecloth, or fine mesh sieve over a large bowl. Pour the blended mixture through to separate the pulp from the liquid.

    “Don’t toss the leftover oat pulp—use it in baking or smoothies!”

  5. Store:

    Pour the strained milk into a clean bottle or jar. Seal tightly and refrigerate.

    Use within 4–5 days. Shake well before each use, as natural separation will occur.

Tips & Variations

  • Make Seed Milk: Use 1 cup sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or hemp seeds instead of oats. Rinse, blend, and strain as above.
  • Rice Milk: Use 1 cup cooked brown rice for a sweet, mild milk. Blend and strain as usual.
  • Flavor it Up: Add cinnamon, cocoa powder, or a splash of coffee for a unique twist.
  • Smoother Texture: Strain twice for extra-silky milk, especially if using oats.
  • Make It Thicker: Use less water or add a tablespoon of coconut cream.
  • Zero Waste: Use leftover pulp in pancakes, cookies, or even to thicken soups!
  • If you love experimenting, try combining oats and seeds for a richer flavor profile.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition (per 1 cup serving) Oat Milk Rice Milk Sunflower Seed Milk
Calories 60–80 70–90 90–110
Carbohydrates 12g 15g 5g
Protein 2g 1g 3g
Fat 1.5g 0.5g 7g
Calcium Varies* Varies* Varies*

*Homemade versions aren’t fortified—consider adding a pinch of calcium powder for a nutrition boost.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pour over granola, muesli, or cereal for a nourishing breakfast.
  • Blend into smoothies—it’s creamy and neutral, making it perfect for fruit or green smoothies.
  • Use in baking in place of dairy milk for muffins, pancakes, or breads. Try it in our Honey Raisin Challah Recipe or Lemon Straws Recipe.
  • Stir into coffee or tea as a light, dairy-free creamer.
  • Enjoy with cookies, or use in dessert recipes like Kolasnittar Recipe.
  • Mix with matcha or cocoa for a homemade vegan latte or hot chocolate.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan milk is one of the simplest, most rewarding kitchen swaps you can make. Not only does it save money and reduce waste, but it also empowers you to take control of what goes into your food.

With this easy recipe, you can whip up a fresh batch of oat, rice, or seed milk in minutes—tailored to your taste, dietary preferences, and needs.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different bases and flavorings. You’ll find that the world of homemade vegan milk is surprisingly diverse and endlessly adaptable.

Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning cereal, blending it into your favorite smoothie, or baking up a batch of Lemon Crackers, this cheap vegan milk recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. If you’re looking for more creative plant-based ideas, check out our Harvest Hash Recipe or explore savory options like our Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes.

Happy blending!

📖 Recipe Card: Cheap Vegan Milk

Description: A simple and affordable homemade vegan milk made from oats. Perfect for drinking, baking, or adding to cereal.

Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT5M

Servings: 4 cups

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 4 cups cold water
  • 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Add oats and water to a blender.
  2. Blend on high for 30-45 seconds until smooth.
  3. Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or fine mesh sieve into a bowl.
  4. Stir in maple syrup, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon if using.
  5. Pour into a jar and refrigerate.
  6. Shake before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 60 per cup | Protein: 1.5g | Fat: 1g | Carbs: 11g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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