Store-Bought vs. Homemade Nut Milk: Which One is Better for You?
- Tatyana Stoyanova
- Nov 22, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Nov 23, 2024
Nut milk has become a popular alternative to dairy, offering a plant-based option for everything from coffee to baking. But when it comes to choosing between store-bought and homemade nut milk, many wonder which is the better choice. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each to help you decide.
1. Convenience vs. Control
Store-Bought Nut Milk:
• Convenience is Key: Pre-packaged nut milk is quick, accessible, and requires no preparation. Simply grab a carton and pour.
• Standardized Flavors: Many brands offer consistent flavors, textures, and sweetness levels.
• Longer Shelf Life: Store-bought options often contain preservatives, allowing them to last for weeks unopened.
Homemade Nut Milk:
• Total Control: You control the ingredients, sweetness, and flavor profile. Want it unsweetened or infused with vanilla? No problem.
• Freshness Matters: Homemade nut milk is free of preservatives, offering a fresher and more natural taste. However, it only lasts 3–5 days in the fridge.
• Customizable Consistency: You can adjust the nut-to-water ratio for creamier or lighter milk.
2. Ingredients and Additives
Store-Bought Nut Milk:
• Added Ingredients: Many brands include thickeners, emulsifiers (like carrageenan or gums), and added sugars to enhance texture and flavor.
• Fortification: Store-bought options are often fortified with vitamins like B12, D, and calcium, making them nutritionally comparable to dairy.
• Lower Nut Content: Some brands may contain as little as 2–3% nuts, with the rest being water and additives. Always check the ingredient list.
Homemade Nut Milk:
• Pure and Simple: Typically made with just nuts, water, and optional natural sweeteners like dates or honey.
• No Additives: Free from preservatives and artificial flavors.
• Higher Nut Content: Homemade versions usually have a higher nut-to-water ratio, offering richer flavor and more nutrients.
3. Cost Considerations
Store-Bought Nut Milk:
• Prices vary depending on the brand and quality, but they can be cost-effective, especially when purchased in bulk.
• Budget options may have lower nut content, which can affect quality.
Homemade Nut Milk:
• Cost of Ingredients: Making nut milk requires quality nuts (almonds, cashews, or hazelnuts), which can be pricey.
• Economical in the Long Run: With regular use, homemade nut milk can be more cost-effective, especially if you buy nuts in bulk.
4. Environmental Impact
Store-Bought Nut Milk:
• Packaging Waste: Most store-bought nut milk comes in cartons, which may not always be recyclable.
• Transportation Footprint: Pre-packaged options contribute to carbon emissions through distribution.
Homemade Nut Milk:
• Reduced Packaging: Homemade nut milk eliminates the need for disposable cartons.
• Byproduct Use: The leftover nut pulp can be repurposed for baking, granola, or smoothies, reducing food waste.
5. Taste and Texture
Store-Bought Nut Milk:
• Consistent but may taste artificial or overly processed due to stabilizers and sweeteners.
• Thicker options may mimic dairy milk better but are less natural.
Homemade Nut Milk:
• Fresher and more natural-tasting, with a nuttier flavor.
• May separate over time since it lacks emulsifiers, requiring shaking before use.
6. Time and Effort
Store-Bought Nut Milk:
• Requires no preparation—ideal for busy lifestyles.
• Minimal effort beyond opening the carton.
Homemade Nut Milk:
• Most methods require soaking the nuts (4–12 hours), blending, and straining, which can be time-consuming. But if you have a nut milk machine you won't need to do this step.
• May involve experimenting to find your preferred ratio and flavor.
Final Verdict: Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between store-bought and homemade nut milk depends on your priorities:
• Go for store-bought if you value convenience, fortification, and a longer shelf life. Just be mindful of added sugars and additives by reading labels carefully.
• Opt for homemade if you want pure ingredients, customizable flavor, and a more environmentally friendly option. The effort can be worth the reward of fresh, creamy nut milk tailored to your taste.
Both options have their merits, and you might find a balance by using homemade nut milk when you have time and relying on store-bought for busy days. Whichever you choose, enjoy the benefits of this delicious and versatile dairy alternative!
Here’s a simple recipe for homemade nut milk and some store-bought brand recommendations to round out your article!
Homemade Nut Milk Recipe
Ingredients:
• 1 cup raw nuts (e.g., almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, or a mix)
• 4 cups filtered water (plus extra for soaking)
• Optional:
• 1–2 dates (for sweetness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for flavor)
• A pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Soak the Nuts:
• Place the nuts in a bowl and cover them with water.
• Let them soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. (Cashews require less time, around 2–4 hours.)
• Drain and rinse the soaked nuts.
2. Blend:
• Add the soaked nuts and 4 cups of filtered water to a high-speed blender.
• Blend on high for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
3. Strain:
• Pour the blended mixture through a nut milk bag, cheesecloth, or a fine-mesh strainer into a large bowl.
• Squeeze or press to extract all the liquid.
4. Flavor (Optional):
• Pour the milk back into the blender and add dates, vanilla extract, or a pinch of salt for flavor. Blend again.
5. Store:
• Transfer the milk to a clean, airtight container or bottle.
• Refrigerate and consume within 3–5 days. Shake well before each use, as it naturally separates.
Bonus Tip: Save the leftover nut pulp! Use it in recipes like energy balls, smoothies, granola, or baked goods.
Recommended Store-Bought Nut Milk Brands
1. Elmhurst 1925
• Known for its high nut content and minimal ingredients (just nuts and water).
• No added gums or emulsifiers, making it taste closer to homemade.
2. Califia Farms
• A widely available brand with various flavors and types of nut milk, including almond, cashew, and blends.
• Options for unsweetened and barista-style varieties.
3. MALK Organics
• Certified organic and uses only three ingredients: nuts, water, and salt.
• Great for those seeking clean, wholesome store-bought options.
4. Silk Almondmilk
• A more affordable and accessible option, available in sweetened, unsweetened, and flavored varieties.
• Fortified with vitamins for added nutrition.
5. Oatly (Barista Edition)
• Although technically oat milk, Oatly’s creamy texture makes it a fan favorite for coffee lovers.
Final Tip for Store-Bought Nut Milk:
Always check the ingredient label! Look for options with minimal additives, no added sugars (unless you want them), and high nut content for the best taste and nutrition.
Nut Milk Maker Machines: A Convenient Middle Ground
If you’re looking for the convenience of store-bought nut milk with the purity and customization of homemade, nut milk maker machines might be the perfect solution.
(This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.)
What Are Nut Milk Maker Machines?
Nut milk makers are appliances designed to streamline the process of making plant-based milks. They automate soaking, blending, and sometimes straining, delivering fresh nut milk in minutes.
Benefits of Nut Milk Maker Machines
Time-Saving:
• No need to soak nuts overnight or manually strain the milk.
• Some models can produce nut milk in as little as 10–15 minutes.
Customizable:
• Allows you to control the nut-to-water ratio, sweetness, and flavor additions.
• Ideal for experimenting with blends like almond-cashew or hazelnut-coconut milk.
Eco-Friendly:
• Reduces packaging waste associated with store-bought options.
• Encourages reuse of nut pulp for zero-waste recipes.
Cost-Effective:
• While there’s an upfront cost for the machine, regular use can save money over time.
Drawbacks of Nut Milk Makers
• Initial Investment:
• Machines can cost anywhere from $70 to $300, depending on features and brand.
Storage Space:
• Some models can be bulky, requiring adequate kitchen space.
• Not Fully Hands-Free:
Some models still require straining, though others include built-in filters to eliminate this step.
Popular Nut Milk Maker Machines
1. Nutr Machine:
• Compact and easy to use. Perfect for small batches (1–2 servings).
• Ideal for single households or occasional use.
2. Almond Cow:
• Larger capacity, making it great for families or frequent use.
• Comes with a built-in strainer for minimal cleanup.
3. ChefWave Milkmade:
• Fully automated with preset options for various types of plant-based milk.
• Offers great versatility for experimenting with ingredients.
4. Soyabella Nut Milk Maker:
• Affordable option that’s also versatile enough to make soups and purees.
• Includes an in-built heating option, perfect for oat or rice milk.
5. Arcmira Nut Milk Maker:
• Affordable option that is requiring just nuts and water before pressing a button.
• Includes an in-built heating option, (perfect for oat or rice milk), delay start and keep-warm functions.
Is a Nut Milk Maker Right for You?
Consider a nut milk maker if:
• You frequently consume nut milk and want a fresh, homemade option without the manual effort.
• You value the ability to control ingredients and minimize waste.
• You’re ready to invest in a long-term solution for homemade plant-based milk.
For casual nut milk drinkers or those with limited kitchen space, sticking to manual methods or store-bought options might be more practical.
Nut milk maker machines bridge the gap between store-bought convenience and homemade control. They can save time, reduce waste, and offer endless customization options. Whether you’re a dedicated nut milk enthusiast or a busy home cook, these machines might just transform how you enjoy plant-based milk.
Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links. If you click through and purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
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