The world of plant-based milk alternatives has experienced a significant surge in popularity over the past decade, with oat milk being one of the most sought-after options. Its creamy texture, neutral flavor, and environmentally friendly production process have made it a favorite among health-conscious consumers and environmentally aware individuals alike. However, with the rising demand for oat milk, its price has also increased, leading many to wonder: is it cheaper to make your own oat milk?
The Cost of Store-Bought Oat Milk
To determine whether making your own oat milk is cheaper, we first need to examine the cost of store-bought oat milk. The price of oat milk can vary depending on the brand, location, and type of milk (e.g., organic, flavored, or unflavored). On average, a half-gallon (64 oz) of oat milk can cost anywhere from $3.50 to $5.50.
| Brand | Price (half-gallon) |
|---|---|
| Oatly | $4.99 |
| So Delicious | $4.49 |
| Califia Farms | $5.49 |
The Cost of Making Your Own Oat Milk
Now, let’s calculate the cost of making your own oat milk. To make oat milk, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 1 cup of rolled oats
- 2 cups of water
- A blender or food processor
- A nut milk bag or a fine-mesh strainer
- Optional: flavorings, sweeteners, or thickeners
The cost of the ingredients can vary depending on the brand and quality of the oats. On average, a 4-pound bag of rolled oats can cost around $5. This works out to approximately $0.31 per cup of oats.
Calculating the Cost of Homemade Oat Milk
To calculate the cost of homemade oat milk, we’ll use the following formula:
Cost of oats + Cost of water + Cost of equipment (amortized) = Total cost
Assuming you already have a blender or food processor, the cost of equipment is negligible. The cost of water is also negligible, as you likely already pay for water in your household.
Therefore, the total cost of making your own oat milk is approximately $0.31 per cup of oats. Since you can make around 2 cups of oat milk with 1 cup of oats, the cost works out to around $0.16 per cup of oat milk.
Comparison of Store-Bought and Homemade Oat Milk Costs
Now that we’ve calculated the cost of both store-bought and homemade oat milk, let’s compare the two:
Store-bought oat milk: $3.50 to $5.50 per half-gallon (64 oz)
Homemade oat milk: $0.16 per cup (approximately $1.28 per half-gallon)
As you can see, making your own oat milk is significantly cheaper than buying it in stores. In fact, you can save up to 75% by making your own oat milk at home.
Other Benefits of Making Your Own Oat Milk
In addition to the cost savings, there are several other benefits to making your own oat milk:
- Customization: When you make your own oat milk, you can customize the flavor and consistency to your liking. Add a pinch of salt, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to create your perfect cup.
- Environmentally friendly: Making your own oat milk reduces packaging waste and minimizes your carbon footprint. You can also use reusable containers and bags to store your homemade oat milk.
- Health benefits: Oat milk is naturally low in calories and rich in fiber. When you make your own oat milk, you can control the amount of sugar and additives that go into it, making it a healthier option for those with dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making your own oat milk is not only cheaper than buying it in stores, but it also offers several other benefits, including customization, environmental sustainability, and health benefits. With a simple recipe and minimal equipment, you can start making your own oat milk at home and enjoy the cost savings and flexibility that comes with it. So, go ahead and give it a try – your wallet and the planet will thank you!
What are the benefits of making your own oat milk?
Making your own oat milk can have several benefits. For one, it allows you to control the ingredients and the amount of sugar that goes into your milk. Store-bought oat milk often contains additives and preservatives that you may not want to consume. By making your own oat milk, you can ensure that it is free from these unwanted ingredients. Additionally, making your own oat milk can be a cost-effective option in the long run.
Another benefit of making your own oat milk is that it can be customized to your taste preferences. You can adjust the ratio of oats to water, add flavorings or sweeteners, and even try out different types of oats to create unique flavor profiles. This level of customization is not always possible with store-bought oat milk, which may come in limited flavors and varieties.
What equipment do I need to make oat milk?
To make oat milk, you will need a few basic pieces of equipment. First, you will need a blender or food processor to blend the oats with water. A high-speed blender such as a Vitamix or Blendtec is ideal, but a lower-speed blender will also work. You will also need a nut milk bag or a fine-mesh strainer to strain the milk and remove the oat pulp. Additionally, you may want to have a large bowl or container to store the milk in the fridge.
You may also want to consider investing in a dedicated oat milk maker, which is a specialized device designed specifically for making oat milk. These devices can make the process easier and faster, and can also help to improve the texture and consistency of the milk. However, they are not necessary, and you can still make great oat milk with just a blender and a nut milk bag.
How much does it cost to make oat milk?
The cost of making oat milk can vary depending on the type and quantity of oats you use, as well as the other ingredients you add. On average, a liter of homemade oat milk can cost anywhere from $0.50 to $1.50, depending on the ingredients and the yield. This is generally cheaper than store-bought oat milk, which can cost anywhere from $2 to $5 per liter.
To give you a better idea, here is a rough breakdown of the costs involved in making oat milk: a 4-pound bag of oats can cost around $5, and can yield around 4-6 liters of milk. This works out to a cost of around $0.80 to $1.25 per liter. You may also need to factor in the cost of other ingredients, such as flavorings or sweeteners, but these can be minimal.
How long does homemade oat milk last?
Homemade oat milk can last for several days when stored in the fridge, but it is best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal flavor and texture. After this time, the milk may start to spoil or develop off-flavors. You can also freeze homemade oat milk to extend its shelf life. Simply pour the milk into an airtight container or freezer bag, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you are ready to use the frozen milk, simply thaw it in the fridge or at room temperature. You may need to give the milk a good stir or shake before using it, as it can separate or become watery during the freezing process. It’s also worth noting that homemade oat milk may not be as shelf-stable as store-bought oat milk, which often contains preservatives to extend its shelf life.
Can I make oat milk with other types of grains?
Yes, you can make milk with other types of grains, such as rice, quinoa, or barley. These milks can be made using a similar process to oat milk, by blending the grains with water and straining out the solids. However, the flavor and texture of these milks can be quite different from oat milk, and may require some experimentation to get right.
For example, rice milk is often thinner and more watery than oat milk, while quinoa milk can be creamier and more nutritious. Barley milk, on the other hand, can have a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. You can also experiment with blending different grains together to create unique flavor profiles and textures.
Is making oat milk a time-consuming process?
Making oat milk can be a relatively quick and easy process, especially if you have a high-speed blender and a nut milk bag. The entire process, from blending to straining, can take around 10-15 minutes. However, you may need to factor in some additional time for soaking the oats, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours.
You can also make oat milk in bulk, which can save you time in the long run. Simply blend and strain a large batch of oats, and store the milk in the fridge or freezer for later use. This can be a convenient option if you use oat milk regularly, or if you want to have a steady supply on hand.