Oat milk has become an increasingly popular plant-based milk alternative in recent years. With its creamy texture and mild, pleasant flavor, some believe it may be a good option for making dairy-free ice cream. But is oat milk actually suitable for ice cream, and how does it compare to other plant milks or regular dairy milk? Let’s take a closer look.
What is oat milk?
Oat milk is a plant-based milk made by blending soaked oats with water and then straining out the oat pulp. It has a creamy, opaque white color and a slightly sweet, oaty taste. Some key attributes of oat milk include:
- Creamy, smooth texture: Oat milk has natural creaminess from the oats that mimics the mouthfeel of dairy milk.
- Mild flavor: The flavor is subtle and fairly neutral, making it versatile for both sweet and savory uses.
- Nutritional profile: Oat milk provides fiber, vitamin E, iron, and some calcium. It’s lower in protein than dairy milk.
- Low allergen: Oat milk is naturally dairy-free and nut-free, making it safe for those with allergies or intolerances.
Compared to other plant milks like almond or soy milk, oat milk has a more neutral flavor profile that lets other ingredients shine. The texture is also naturally thick and creamy. These properties make it appealing for applications like smoothies, coffee, or ice cream.
Nutrition of oat milk
Here is a comparison of the nutrition facts of one cup of oat milk versus whole dairy milk:
| Nutrient | Oat milk | Whole dairy milk |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 | 146 |
| Fat | 5g | 8g |
| Protein | 3g | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 16g | 12g |
| Sugar | 7g | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g | 0g |
| Calcium | 25mg | 276mg |
| Vitamin D | 25IU | 124IU |
The most notable differences are that oat milk is lower in protein and calcium compared to dairy milk. However, it provides more fiber. When making ice cream, the protein and calcium levels are less important than the overall fat and sugar content.
Fat content of oat milk
The fat content of oat milk can range from 2-5% depending on the brand. For comparison, whole dairy milk contains about 3.25% milkfat. Higher fat oat milks will lend better creaminess and richness to ice cream. Most brands produce an “original” or “extra creamy” version with 4-5% fat content. This approaches the average fat level needed for ice cream.
Some key considerations for oat milk fat content:
- Aim for 4-5% fat oat milk for ice cream. This provides enough richness and body.
- Low fat oat milks (2%) may result in icy texture and less creaminess.
- Can blend higher fat oat milk with lower fat to achieve ideal fat percentage.
- May need to compensate for lower fat with other ingredients like coconut cream.
When possible, use the highest fat oat milk available or dilute as needed to reach the target ice cream fat content.
Protein content
Dairy milk contains about 3.5% protein, largely casein and whey. These milk proteins help ice cream achieve an ideal smooth, creamy texture. Oat milk is significantly lower in protein at just 0.5-1% protein.
The minimal protein content of oat milk means it won’t contribute the same benefits for texture and consistency. There are a few ways to compensate:
- Add vegetable protein powder like soy or pea protein.
- Incorporate Greek yogurt for added protein and texture.
- Use stabilizing ingredients like guar or xanthan gum.
- Accept a slightly less creamy, more icy texture.
Boosting the protein is ideal, but not always necessary. Some simple oat milk ice cream recipes omit additional protein entirely.
Sugar content
The sugar in ice cream comes from the added sugar or sweeteners used in the recipe. Oat milk only contains around 7 grams of sugar per cup, mostly from the oats themselves. This is lower than the 12 grams of naturally occurring lactose in dairy milk.
For ice cream recipes, sugar is added to help depress the freezing point. This results in a softer, scoopable texture at freezer temperatures. Typically ice cream contains 12-20% sugar, or about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of white sugar per quart of mix.
When using oat milk, you have full control over how much sugar goes into the base. Aim for approximately 1/4 to 1/3 cup of granulated sugar or other sweetener per quart of oat milk to achieve the ideal ice cream sweetness and texture.
Does oat milk work well for ice cream?
Oat milk can definitely be used to make dairy-free ice cream at home. However, there are some important considerations:
- Select a high fat oat milk for best results. Or, dilute lower fat milk with coconut cream.
- The lack of protein may result in a less creamy texture. Adding soy protein isolate or yogurt helps compensate.
- Be sure to include adequate sugar or sweetener to create a soft, scoopable consistency.
- Stabilizers like guar gum also improve texture but aren’t strictly necessary.
- Oat milk has a distinct flavor of its own that comes through in ice cream. Those who greatly dislike oat milk may not enjoy it.
With the right recipe adjustments and techniques, oat milk can perform quite well as a dairy-free ice cream base. It may never achieve exactly the same texture as traditional ice cream. But it can still result in a delicious, satisfying frozen dessert.
Best oat milk ice cream recipes
Here are some of the best oat milk ice cream recipes to try:
Simple 3 Ingredient Oat Milk Ice Cream
Ingredients:
- 2 (14-ounce) cans full-fat coconut milk
- 1 (14-ounce) can oat milk
- 2/3 cup maple syrup or honey
Directions:
- Whisk together all ingredients in a large bowl until fully blended.
- Pour mixture into ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Transfer soft serve ice cream to a freezer-safe container to harden fully before serving.
The coconut milk provides extra creaminess and fat to complement the oat milk. Honey or maple syrup lends a subtle flavor accent.
Vanilla Oat Milk Ice Cream
Ingredients:
- 2 cups oat milk
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
- Whisk all ingredients together until fully blended.
- Churn in ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions.
- Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving for firmer texture.
The sweetened condensed milk gives a creamy richness while keeping the preparation easy. Feel free to use vanilla bean paste in place of extract for extra specks of vanilla.
Chocolate Oat Milk Ice Cream
Ingredients:
- 2 cups oat milk
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
- Whisk all ingredients together until smooth.
- Churn in ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Transfer to freezer-safe container and freeze until firm, about 2 hours.
Cocoa powder gives this recipe rich chocolate flavor. For cookies and cream, mix in chopped chocolate cookies before churning.
Tips for making the best oat milk ice cream
Use these tips to make smooth, creamy oat milk ice cream:
- Chill the oat milk thoroughly before using. This helps the ice cream set up faster.
- Mix in a pinch of salt. Salt enhances flavor and reduces the perception of sweetness.
- Add vodka or booze for a softer texture. The alcohol lowers the freezing point.
- Emulsify the base by thoroughly blending before churning. This creates a smooth, uniform texture.
- Give time to cure. Allow ice cream to ripen in the freezer for 1-2 hours after churning before eating.
Properly chilling, seasoning, and emulsifying the base helps oat milk perform its best in ice cream. And be patient – allowing time for the ice cream to cure results in the ultimate creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does oat milk freeze well?
Oat milk can successfully be frozen, but it may separate slightly. Be sure to shake or stir the frozen oat milk before using to re-emulsify. The fat in oat milk may solidify when frozen, giving it a grainier texture.
What is the best oat milk brand for ice cream?
Look for oat milks with higher fat percentages, like Oatly Full Fat, Califia Farms Oat Barista Blend, or Elmhurst Milked Oats. Avoid overly processed or watery oat milks. Thicker, creamier ones perform better.
Can you make ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes, ice cream can be made without a special appliance. Simply blend the ingredients and freeze in a shallow pan, stirring periodically as it freezes to break up ice crystals. The texture may be slightly icier.
Is oat milk ice cream healthy?
Oat milk ice cream can be a healthier option compared to traditional dairy-based ice cream. But it still contains calories, fat, and sugar. Enjoy oat milk ice cream in moderation as an occasional treat.
How long does homemade oat milk ice cream last?
Properly stored in a sealed container, oat milk ice cream lasts 2-3 months in the freezer before quality declines. Eat within 5 days after thawing.
Conclusion
Oat milk can make a delicious and creamy dairy-free ice cream when handled properly. Choose an oat milk with higher fat content and consider adding protein sources and stabilizers to improve texture. While oat milk may not have the exact same properties as dairy, it can still produce satisfying scoops of ice cream with the right recipe adjustments. When craving a cool, sweet treat, oat milk ice cream is a fun way to enjoy the flavor of oats in frozen form.