Make Homemade Almond Milk in a Breville Big Squeeze

Almond milk has become an increasingly popular plant-based milk alternative. Store-bought versions tend to be expensive and often contain added sugars or preservatives. Luckily, it’s easy to make your own homemade almond milk using a blender like the Breville Big Squeeze. Fresh almond milk has a light, creamy texture and subtle almond flavor that enhances smoothies, cereals, coffee drinks, and more.

Benefits of Homemade Almond Milk

Making your own almond milk at home provides several advantages over store-bought versions:

• Cost savings – Homemade almond milk can cost a fraction of the price of buying it at the grocery store. Almonds and water are the only ingredients needed.
• Control ingredients – You can avoid unwanted additives like added sugars, thickeners, and preservatives commonly found in commercial almond milk brands.
• Freshness – Homemade almond milk tastes fresher and lasts longer in the fridge than store-bought versions.
• Customize texture – Tailor the thickness to your preference by adjusting the almond to water ratio.
• Flavor options – Infuse your almond milk with vanilla, cocoa powder, cinnamon, or other flavors.

How to Make Almond Milk

Making almond milk in a blender like the Breville Big Squeeze is a quick and easy process. Here are the step-by-step instructions:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw almonds
• 4 cups filtered water, plus more for soaking
• Pinch of salt (optional)
• Flavorings of your choice (vanilla, cocoa powder, cinnamon, etc.)

Directions:

1. Soak the almonds in a bowl of water for 8-12 hours or overnight. This softens the texture and makes them easier to blend.
2. Drain and rinse the almonds well. Discard the soak water.
3. Add the almonds and 4 cups fresh filtered water to the Breville Big Squeeze blender pitcher.
4. Secure the lid and select the “Smoothie” setting. Blend for 60-90 seconds until the almonds are finely ground.
5. Pour the almond pulp and milk into a nut milk bag or piece of cheesecloth. Squeeze and massage the bag to extract as much liquid as possible. Capture this milk in a large bowl or pitcher.
6. Return the strained almond milk back to the blender. Add any flavorings, sweeteners, or salt at this point if desired. Blend briefly to incorporate.
7. Transfer the finished almond milk into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for 3-4 days.
8. Save the leftover almond pulp to use in baked goods, smoothies, or as a face scrub. Or dehydrate it for almond flour.

Tips for the Best Homemade Almond Milk:

• Use raw almonds instead of roasted for better flavor and texture.
• Soak the almonds well to soften before blending.
• Rinse soaked almonds to remove any bitter soak water.
• Use a fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag to separate the pulp. Cheesecloth works too.
• Blend the almond milk a second time after straining for a smoother, creamier consistency.
• Add natural sweeteners like maple syrup, dates, or stevia to taste.
• Shake or stir the milk before using, as separation can occur.

With the Breville Big Squeeze blender, it only takes 10 minutes hands-on time to make multiple servings of fresh, nutritious almond milk to enjoy all week long. The pre-programmed cycles pulverize almonds into a smooth milk consistency with no grit. Enjoy homemade almond milk on its own or use it to level up your favorite recipes and beverages.

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Almond Milk

What kind of almonds work best?
Raw almonds are recommended for making homemade almond milk. They produce a smoother, creamier milk than roasted almonds. However, roasted unsalted almonds can also be used.

How long does homemade almond milk last?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade almond milk will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Give it a shake or stir before using as some separation is normal. Discard any milk that smells sour or has mold.

Can you use a different nut or seed?
Yes, you can use a variety of nuts and seeds to make nut milk in the same way as almond milk. Some popular options are cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios, coconut flakes, sunflower seeds, hemp seeds, and flaxseeds. Adjust the water ratio as necessary.

Conclusion

Homemade nut milks like almond milk are healthier, cheaper, and tastier than store-bought versions. The Breville Big Squeeze makes quick work of turning raw almonds and water into a smooth, creamy homemade almond milk. Soaking the almonds well and straining out the pulp are keys to producing a great-tasting milk. Feel free to customize the flavor with vanilla, cocoa, cinnamon, or other mix-ins. Enjoy your fresh almond milk in cereal, smoothies, coffee, and more. With just a little hands-on effort, you can skip the store-bought milk and make your own nutritious almond milk at home.