Milk Alternatives: 9 Recipes

There are dozens of methods for making milk alternatives. Some call for the soaking, blanching, and peeling of nuts, some don’t. Some are straightforward, some are more complicated. Raw nuts are often specified to meet the needs of people who prefer raw food, but cooked nuts work just as well. Sweeteners are a big issue here. Agave nectar is a wonderful alternative to honey because it is low on the glycemic index and is vegan—but can be hard to find. Honey and maple syrup are good alternatives to processed sugar. Pitted dates and banana can be used to sweeten as well as to create a thicker texture. I suggest playing around with the recipes here (and the different sweeteners) until you find the perfect fit for your needs. All of these milks need to be refrigerated, and should keep for at least 2 days.

30-SECOND NUT MILK
Inspired by Raw Food, Real World (Regan Books, 2005)
2 heaping tablespoons raw nut butter
2 cups filtered water
Pinch of sea salt
2 tablespoons agave nectar or 1 packet stevia
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon coconut butter (optional)

1. In a blender, puree all ingredients until smooth.

BASIC ALMOND MILK
1 cup raw almonds, soaked at least 4 hours
3 cups filtered water

1. In a high-speed blender blend the nuts and water for about 2 minutes until the nuts are completely blended.
2. Strain the mix through multiple layers of cheesecloth in a colander two times.

ALMOND NOG
1 batch basic almond milk
5 large soft pitted dates
2 very ripe bananas
1 vanilla bean, scraped
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup raw macadamia nuts (optional)

In a high-speed blender add all ingredients and blend until combined.
Adjust sweetness to taste by adding more or less dates.
The macadamia nuts are optional but they will give the drink a thicker consistency.

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By the Care2 Green Living Staff

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Deborah L.

7:59PM PDT on Oct 13, 2011

Sounds so good, but time consuming. Might try on a rainy day when there is nothing else to do. I do love that these recipes are So healthy!

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JE M.

1:56PM PDT on Oct 6, 2011

thanks.

1:54PM PDT on Oct 6, 2011

Past Member .

12:55AM PDT on Oct 3, 2011

thanks

Jennifer C.

2:31AM PDT on May 9, 2011

That recipes sound good. Thanks.

Jo A.

2:05AM PDT on Mar 29, 2011

Great ideas! I will try out the recipes! Thanks!:-)

Annmari L.

9:09AM PST on Feb 23, 2011

Good to know since I don't use anything with lactose in it. I will certainly try some of these whenever I get my food processor/blender. Thanks for posting!

JoAnn R.

12:41PM PST on Feb 7, 2011

Thank you -I must try some of the recipe

Rhonda C.

6:11PM PST on Feb 5, 2011

Thanks for the article, Melissa. Plan on trying!