Summer is wrapping up, so before we close the chapter on summer here in Phoenix, I have one last summer recipe to share with you. It’s a little unique, but it came from the depths of my brain and ended up tasting incredible when I tried it out. It’s Strawberry Basil Oat Milk!
Equipment you need for Strawberry Oat Milk
To make this delicious strawberry oat milk, you really only need two pieces of equipment to get started.
Blender: Use your favorite high-powered blender. I have a Vitamix, which is my favorite, but any high-speed blender will do.
Storage container: This recipe makes about 5 cups. I use 32-ounce wide-mouth Mason jars to store the finished milk. Write the date you make it on masking tape and stick it to the top of the jar.
Fine Mesh Strainer: This is technically optional, but highly recommended. Use a nut milk bag or strainer to remove the sediment in the mixture; this will make the texture as smooth as something you’d buy at the grocery store.
Ingredients you need for Strawberry Oat Milk
This vegan strawberry oat milk is a fun way to enjoy one of the most popular berries out there. Making milk at home is an easy and cost-effective way to add a bit more variety to your dairy-free alternatives.
Rolled oats: We can’t have oat milk without oats! Rolled oats are a healthy source of soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce blood sugar spikes. Avoid using quick or steel-cut oats; the recipe won’t turn out the same.
Chia seeds: Chia seeds boost fiber and add a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids, which is great for heart health! Blending them into the milk avoids the chia pudding texture while still adding nutrients.
Strawberries: Sweet and full of flavor. Strawberries are one of the stars of this show. They give a nice dose of vitamin C and antioxidants that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. One serving of eight strawberries has more vitamin C than an orange –110% of the recommended daily value (1).
If you’re using frozen, let them thaw a little bit before blending, or you run the risk of messing up your blender. Frozen strawberries are like rocks.
Maple syrup: In addition to adding flavor and a bit of sweetness, maple syrup contains minerals like zinc and manganese that can help us meet our nutrition needs. Want to skip maple syrup? Throw in a date or two instead!
Basil: What makes this milk a little different is the use of basil. When I think of summer, strawberry basil comes right to mind, so they’re staying together even in this strawberry oat milk.
Vanilla Extract: One of the most common extracts in your cabinet, it doesn’t just need to be used for baking! Vanilla extract gives the oatmilk an extra boost of flavor. I like making homemade vanilla, saving nearly $100 on each bottle I make! Water: All milk recipes need a liquid. DYK that milk is primarily water. Having a liquid component allows the milk to blend smoothly.
How to make basil strawberry oat milk
Now that we know what we need to make it, fire up the blender and let’s get started.
Recipe
Basil Strawberry Oatmilk
Equipment
- High-Speed Blender
Ingredients
- ½ cup rolled oats I like the high protien from Bob's Red Mill
- 3 cups filtered COLD water cold water = less slimy texture
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and halved)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Instructions
- Add rolled oats, filtered water, strawberries, maple syrup, basil, vanilla, and chia seeds to a blender.
- Blend on high for 30–45 seconds until smooth and creamy. Avoid over-blending to prevent sliminess from the oats.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- For a smoother texture, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag, then transfer to a sealed container.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
FAQs
You've got questions, I've got answers. Here are some common oat milk making questions.
Are flavored oat milks still healthy?
If consumed in moderation, oat milks can be a part of a healthy, nutritious diet. This strawberry milk uses fresh strawberries, a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants, along with chia seeds, which provide anti-inflammatory Omega-3 fatty acids. It’s also low in added sugar.
Store-bought flavored milks typically contain added sugar, usually around 16 grams per 8 ounces or more.
Are there risks for making oat milk at home?
Oat milk can be safely made at home when you follow basic food safety procedures. For more information on food safety basics, check out the USDA’s food safety guidelines.
How do I make oat milk less slimy?
Oats are higher in soluble fiber, which can form a gel when mixed with liquids, helping to slow down digestion, promote fullness, and nourish gut bacteria. But that gel doesn’t look appetizing to drink.
One way to reduce the slimy consistency of oatmilk is to strain it well using a nut milk bag or a fine mesh strainer, but be gentle. Because it is a gel, squeezing too firmly means you’ll squeeze the soluble fiber right back into your oat milk.
Another option is to use cold cold water, they helps reduce slimy textures as well.
What to Serve It With
Now that you’ve successfully made this Strawberry Oat Milk, how do you use it? Well there are many ways to enjoy this beverage either on its own or in a recipe.
Because of the use of strawberries, this drink provides a good amount of vitamin C. Pairing this drink with a serving of high-iron cereals can help you boost your iron intake. Check out these 6 cereals high in iron.
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