Description
This homemade Sweetened Condensed Oat Milk recipe offers a creamy, naturally sweetened alternative to traditional condensed milk, perfect for vegan and dairy-free diets. Made by blending oats and water, then gently cooking with cane sugar and vanilla, it provides a rich texture and subtle vanilla flavor. Ideal for baking, coffee, or desserts, this oat-based condensed milk is easy to prepare and can be stored refrigerated or frozen for convenience.
Ingredients
Oat Milk Base
- ½ cup rolled oats (see Note 1)
- 2 cups ice cold water
Sweetened Condensing
- ½ cup organic cane sugar (see Note 2)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- Pinch of salt
Optional
- 1 to 2 tablespoons vegan butter (for a richer flavor and mouthfeel)
Instructions
- Rinse Oats: Place the rolled oats in a strainer and rinse briefly under cold water to remove excess starch and impurities, which helps achieve a cleaner flavor and smoother texture.
- Blend: Combine the rinsed oats with 2 cups of ice cold water in a blender. Start blending on low speed and quickly escalate to high speed. If using a high-speed blender such as a Vitamix, blend for about 30 seconds; for a regular blender, blend closer to 1 minute, ensuring the oats are fully processed and the mixture is smooth.
- Strain: Strain the blended oat milk twice for optimal smoothness. Using two nut milk bags layered inside each other to strain once through the double layer results in a creamy, grit-free liquid.
- Cook & Sweeten: In a medium-large saucepan, whisk together the strained oat milk and organic cane sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking frequently to prevent sticking. Warm until steamy and hot, about 5 minutes, taking care not to bring to a rolling boil.
- Simmer and Thicken: Once hot and slightly thickened, reduce the heat to low and gently simmer the mixture for 2 ½ to 3 minutes. The oat milk should become glossy and thicker yet remain pourable. Avoid overcooking to maintain a smooth consistency.
- Flavor and Finish: Turn off the heat and whisk in vanilla bean paste and a pinch of salt to enhance taste and balance sweetness. If you desire a richer taste and creamier texture, whisk in 1 to 2 tablespoons of vegan butter at this stage.
- Cool and Store: Transfer the sweetened condensed oat milk into a lidded jar or container. Allow it to cool before refrigerating. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 days or freeze for up to 2 months for longer storage.
Notes
- Note 1: Use rolled oats for best texture and flavor; avoid instant oats which can create a slimier texture.
- Note 2: Organic cane sugar provides a clean, natural sweetness, but you may substitute with other sweeteners like coconut sugar if preferred.
- For a thicker consistency, reduce cooking time slightly but avoid boiling to prevent separation.
- Double straining with nut milk bags ensures a smooth, creamy milk free of oat pulp.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Condensed Milk Substitute
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan, Dairy-Free