5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (2024)

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4.9 stars (from 47 ratings)

By Traci York125 Comments / Jump to Recipe

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Rich, creamy, dairy-free, this cashew milk easy to make and it needs no straining (a triumph!)! This Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe is my go-to milk for every day, perfect to enjoy alone or in sweet and savory recipes. This recipe is vegetarian, vegan and gluten free.

5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (6)

Table of Contents

How Do You Feel About Nut Milk?

I’ve been playing around with a few different homemade nut milks, and so far, this cashew nut milk recipe has my attention. I tried almond milk, but could never figure out what to do with all the leftover pulp. Even trying to use the pulp in smoothies and brownies, it just didn’t work for me. And I can’t bear the thought of composting or throwing it out.

This cashew milk recipe is simple to whip up, perfect for everyday, is creamy, has a neutral flavor and is so creamy and rich.You’re going to love it!

Quick Guide: How to Make Cashew Milk

Quick to whip up with just a bit of planning, here’s how to make this cashew milk recipe (see recipe card below for details):

  • First, soak the cashews in very hot water for up to 15 minutes (for quick cashew milk), or soak overnight.
  • Second, rinse and drain the cashews.
  • Next, transfer the cashews to a high speed blender, pour in the water and any other inclusions (sweetener, vanilla, cinnamon…) if using.
  • Last, blend on high speed for about 30 seconds until smooth and creamy.

Although I’ve not experienced this Vitamix, if you find your cashew milk still has some chunks, strain the solids out using a nut milk bag, cheese cloth or other fine strainer. Transfer to a Mason jar or other storage container and enjoy.

How to Use Homemade Cashew Milk in Recipes

Cashew milk is perfect for every day whether you’re dairy free or reducing dairy in your diet. Cashew milk can be used like dairy milk in many recipes. Depending on how much you dilute the cashews will depend on the recipe you’re using them in. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Sweet or Savory: For savory cooking, I use it as is without any inclusions (cinnamon, vanilla…) and same for most baking. However if enjoying it simply with Maple Pecan Granola or Sourdough Cookies, for example, I typically add dates or maple, cinnamon and vanilla.
    • For baking, I dilute it, adding an additional cup of water to the full recipe. Or within a recipe use half cashew milk, half water. It yields the consistency about 2% milk.
    • For savory cooking, I make it without any inclusions (cinnamon, vanilla…).
    • For latte frothing or cutting Cold Brew Coffee, drip coffee or for an Earl Grey Latte, I make it as is, like half & half with a sweet edge.
  • Cream, Half & Half, Whole or 2% Milk: The consistency of this cashew milk recipe is about like half & half. If a thinner or thicker milk is preferred, adjust the amount of water used when blending by about one cup either way. It’s completely adjustable.

5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (7)

A Few Cashew Nut Milk Tips

  • A high-speed blender is a must for nut milk. To get the cashews perfectly smooth, I use Vitamix. You don’t have to strain the blended cashews, if using a VitaMix so all the fiber and nutrients are retained. Just soak the cashews overnight at room temperature water, then blend.
  • For Quick Cashew Milk: soak the cashews for 15 minutes in very hot water, rise, then blend.
  • Sweetener (or not) of Choice: Sweeten this cashew milk recipe with dates, maple syrup, honey, agave, sweetener of choice or no sweetener at all. Play with the ratios to suit your taste/dietary needs. After making this recipe for cashew milk a few times, you’ll discover the combination of flavors and/or level of sweetness you prefer.
  • Look for cashews in the bulk bins, organic and fair trade if available.
  • You’ll want to use this milk pretty quick, within 3 days or it starts to sour. A half batch can be made as well.
  • Shake it Up! After storing, you’ll notice how the cashew milk separates. Give the cashew milk a good shake each time before using.

Recipes to Enjoy Cashew Milk With

Breakfast:

  • Maple Pecan Granola
  • Sourdough Vegan Pancakes
  • Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
  • Banana-Oat Pecan Waffles
  • Dutch Baby
  • Sourdough Biscuits
  • Sourdough Oat Pancakes
  • Banana Oat Muffins – Gluten Free – Vegan

Sweets:

  • Mocha Shake
  • Vegan Hazelnut Chocolate Cake
  • Spiked Orange Hot Chocolate
  • Gluten Free Pastry for Apple Pie
  • Cranberry Orange Sourdough Scones

Savory:

  • Creamy Parmesan Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms
  • Greek Yogurt Ranch Dressing
  • Corn and Zucchini Fritters
  • Roasted Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
  • Sourdough Oatmeal Bread
  • Creamy White Bean Parmesan and Mushroom Orzo
  • Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
  • Cottage Pie
  • Stovetop Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
  • Gluten Free Cornbread

Drinks:

  • Use a frothing wand to make the creamiest lattes.
  • Cold Brew Coffee
  • Vanilla Earl Grey Tea with Milk

5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (8)

Print Recipe

5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe

Servings:5 1/2 C (1.08kg)

Calories:172kcal

Author:Traci York

Quick and easy, Cashew Milk is a rich and creamy non-dairy milk to enjoy with porridge, chia pudding, and lattes'. Play with the level of sweetness to taste.

*See blog post for more tips, how to use your cashew milk and recipe notes!

Ingredients

  • 1 C (160g) Raw Cashews
  • 2 Medjool Dates pitted*, or 3 tsp of maple, honey or agave.
  • 3 1/2 C (800g) Water**
  • 1/4 tsp Sea Salt
  • 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 1/4 tsp Cinnamon optional

Instructions

  • Soak the cashews in very hot water for 15 minutes OR cashews can be soaked in room temperature water for two hours or overnight as well - whatever works for your schedule.

    Drain cashews and rinse. Add cashews to the blender (I use a Vitamix) along with dates, water, salt, extract and cinnamon. Blend starting on low speed and increasing to high until smooth and frothy, about 40 seconds.

  • If you find your cashew milk still has some chunks, strain the solids out using a nut milk bag, layered cheese cloth or other fine strainer. I have not experienced this when using a Vitamix.

    Store in a lidded container for up to three days. Shake well before using.

Notes

*Adjust to taste and use sweetener of choice.

**For thinner milk use 4 C (912g) water.

Nutrition is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate. If this information is important to you, please have it verified independently.

Calories: 172kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 128mg | Potassium: 237mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 2mg

Made It? Leave a comment below! The most helpful comment may include recipe rating, feedback, any modifications and/or helping other commenters. On Instagram? Take a snap of your make and share, tagging @VanillaAndBean #VanillaAndBean!

You might also like:

Maple Pecan Granola
Vegan Nog Smoothie
Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich
15-Minute Creamy Oatmeal
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  1. 5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (14)Jodi Shaw

    Incredible! So smooth and creamy with a burst of flavor. My entire family loved. No added it to my coffee. So tasty! I wish I could add a photo :)

    Reply

    • 5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (15)Traci York

      Thank you for your note, Jodi! Hooray for tasty cashew milk. SO glad everyone approved!

      Reply

  2. 5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (16)Pam Richason

    5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (17)
    I just made it and I love the taste. I think I have found my new favorite milk.

    Reply

    • 5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (18)Traci York

      Hooray! I love this discovery, Pam. Thank you for your note and five star review!

      Reply

  3. 5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (19)Sabrina

    5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (20)
    Quick, easy, and yummy. So much better homemade. Thank you,

    Reply

    • 5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (21)Traci York

      Hi Sabrina! Hooray! Yes, yes… couldn’t agree more. Thank you for your note and five star review!

      Reply

  4. 5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (22)MarilynbGruber

    5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (23)
    Your quick method using hot water to make cashew milk is delicious. I followed the recipe using the dates vanilla, and cinnamon except I eliminated the salt. If you want a super fast, simple way to make your own non-dairy milk that tastes great,try this recipe.

    Reply

    • 5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (24)Traci York

      Hi Marilyn! Thank youuuu for your note, and a five star review. So excited you’re enjoying the recipe!

      Reply

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5 Minute Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe (no strain!) | Vanilla And Bean (2024)

FAQs

What are the ingredients in cashew milk? ›

Ingredients. Cashewmilk (Filtered Water, Cashews), Contains 2% or Less of: Almonds, Vitamin and Mineral Blend (Calcium Carbonate, Vitamin E Acetate, Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin D2), Salt, Locust Bean Gum, Natural Flavor, Gellan Gum, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C To Protect Freshness).

Why not to drink cashew milk? ›

The Downside of Cashew Milk

One downside is that it doesn't have as much protein as cow's milk or even almond milk. So if you're looking for a protein-rich drink, cashew milk might not be the best choice. Additionally, because it's made from nuts, it can be a trigger food for those with nut allergies.

How long does homemade cashew milk last? ›

HOW LONG DOES IT LAST? Homemade cashew milk lasts 3-4 days in the fridge. Though I think it's best consumed within the first 2-3 days. You can halve this recipe if you don't think you'll use it all up.

Why do you soak cashews for cashew milk? ›

Soaking cashews, or any seeds, will rid them of compounds known as anti-nutrients that create an impenetrable barrier around their wealth of nutrients. Once the anti-nutrients break down, we can fully digest them and effectively absorb all their nutrients.

Is cashew milk anti inflammatory? ›

Summary Cashew milk contains compounds like antioxidants and zinc that may fight inflammation and boost immunity.

Which nut milk is the healthiest? ›

For overall nutrition profile, however, almond milk and cashew milk top our list. In an extremely low-calorie package, one cup of each contains approximately 25 to 50 percent of your day's calcium and 25 percent of your daily vitamin D.

Is homemade cashew milk bad for you? ›

Cashew milk is good for heart health as it is rich in good fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. In addition, it also contains potassium and magnesium which also contributes in boosting heart health. Cashew milk is also good for eye health being rich in carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin.

Is it OK to drink cashew milk everyday? ›

If you don't find yourself snacking on cashews, drinking cashew milk is a great way to incorporate a rich nutrition value into your daily routine. We love the creamy consistency of cashew milk. Its silky texture makes it perfect for drinking, coffee and cooking -- there are so many ways to use cashew milk every day.

Does cashew milk spike blood sugar? ›

Certain compounds in cashew milk can promote better control of blood sugar, such as anacardic acid. This can help people with diabetes who struggle with blood sugar levels. Additionally, because cashew milk is free of lactose and has fewer carbs than traditional dairy, which is recommended for those with diabetes.

What happens when cashew milk goes bad? ›

Sometimes, cashew milk may develop mold, foul odors, or changes in color and texture after opening — especially if it wasn't properly stored. For example, it may turn yellow, form clumps, or become thicker. These are signs of spoilage, and you should discard the milk immediately.

Does homemade cashew milk froth? ›

While cashews make creamy milk, they unexpectedly frothed second best to the almond creamer. We still got a decent amount of froth, but it was a thinner layer on the coffee and didn't last as long as the fluffy foam from the almond creamer.

How do you thicken cashew milk? ›

Pour cashew milk into a medium-sized pot and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, whisking it occasionally. Once it comes to a boil, just let it simmer for 10-20 seconds and remove it from the heat. It will have thickened considerably.

Why did my cashews turn purple? ›

The soaking cashews will swell, especially the ones that sit overnight. However, if they have turned purple-ish it is a sign they have soaked too long and you should start over.

How do you fortify homemade nut milk? ›

If you're making your own plant-based milk and want to ensure that it contains all the necessary nutrients, you can add other nutrient supplements like iron, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. These supplements are available in various forms and can be added to the milk while blending or mixed in afterward.

What are the pros and cons of cashew milk? ›

Pros: Low in fat, cabs and calories. Cons: Lacks protein. On its own, cashew milk doesn't have the density of vitamins, minerals and fatty acids as cow's milk, so it's important to look for fortified milk.

Is cashew milk healthier than almond milk? ›

For manufacturers, the choice is between the goals of the end product and the target market it is serving. Fortunately, both almond and cashew milk varieties provide a similar nutritional punch and supplement healthy, balanced diets.

What is healthier almond or cashew milk? ›

Overall, almond milk and cashew milk are remarkably similar in their nutrition profile since they're both made from nuts and water. The main differences will be between different brands and how much (if any) calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 they add to their products.

Is cashew milk better for you than regular milk? ›

The unsweetened version of cashew milk has greater degrees of calcium and vitamin A than cow milk. With fewer sugars and calories, it makes for a savory bakery product, you can use to prepare coffee and tea. Cashew milk's nutritional content and taste vary slightly based on the brands.

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