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Using raw almonds for almond milk is not only possible but actually the best way to make fresh, creamy homemade almond milk.
Raw almonds bring a clean, neutral flavor to your almond milk and keep things simple since there’s no roasting step involved.
If you’ve been wondering whether to use raw almonds for almond milk or reach for roasted ones instead, the answer leans heavily toward raw.
In this post, we’ll look at why raw almonds work so well for almond milk, how to prepare them properly, and a few tips to get the creamiest results.
Let’s get into it.
Why Raw Almonds Work Best for Almond Milk
Raw almonds are ideal for almond milk, and here’s why:
1. Raw Almonds Have a Neutral, Clean Flavor
When you use raw almonds for almond milk, the flavor stays mild and slightly sweet.
Roasted almonds carry a toasty, nutty taste that can overpower the delicate flavor you expect from almond milk.
That clean flavor is why most commercial almond milk brands use raw or lightly blanched almonds.
If you want your almond milk to taste like almond milk, raw almonds are your best bet.
2. Raw Almonds Blend Into a Creamier Milk
Raw almonds soften beautifully after soaking, which means they break down smoothly in a blender.
Softer almonds equal a creamier almond milk with less grit, and that’s exactly what raw almonds give you.
Roasted almonds tend to be drier and harder, so they don’t blend as smoothly into almond milk.
That’s why using raw almonds for almond milk delivers that silky texture you’re after.
3. Raw Almonds Keep More of Their Nutrients
Roasting exposes almonds to high heat, which can degrade some of their heat-sensitive nutrients.
When you make almond milk from raw almonds, you preserve more of the natural vitamins and healthy fats.
Raw almonds also retain their enzymes and antioxidants better than roasted ones.
So using raw almonds for almond milk is a small choice that pays off nutritionally.
4. No Extra Step of Roasting Required
Raw almonds skip the roasting step entirely, so your almond milk comes together faster.
You just soak, blend, and strain, and that’s it.
Fewer steps mean less chance of burning the almonds and ruining the batch.
That convenience is another reason raw almonds are the go-to for homemade almond milk.
How to Prepare Raw Almonds for Almond Milk
Getting the most from your raw almonds comes down to proper preparation.
Here’s how to do it right:
1. Soak the Raw Almonds First
Soaking raw almonds for 8 to 12 hours softens them and makes blending much easier.
Use filtered water and a pinch of salt, and let the almonds sit at room temperature overnight.
Soaking also helps remove phytic acid, which can interfere with nutrient absorption.
Never skip this step when using raw almonds for almond milk, or you’ll end up with gritty results.
2. Peel the Skins for Smoother Milk (Optional)
After soaking, the skins on raw almonds slip off easily.
Peeling is optional, but it gives you a smoother, whiter almond milk that looks more like store-bought.
If you leave the skins on, your almond milk will still taste great but may look slightly beige.
Either way, raw almonds make excellent almond milk with or without the skins.
3. Blend With Fresh Water and Strain Well
Blend the soaked raw almonds with fresh filtered water using a 1-to-3 or 1-to-4 ratio.
Blend on high for about two minutes until the mixture looks milky and smooth.
Then strain through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth and squeeze out every last drop.
That’s how raw almonds transform into fresh almond milk in your own kitchen.
Common Mistakes When Using Raw Almonds for Almond Milk
Even with the right almonds, a few missteps can ruin your batch.
Watch out for these:
1. Skipping the Soak
Unsoaked raw almonds won’t blend smoothly, leaving you with gritty almond milk.
Always soak raw almonds before making almond milk for the best texture.
2. Using Too Much Water
Too much water makes thin, watery almond milk.
Start with less water and add more until you reach your preferred consistency when blending raw almonds for almond milk.
3. Not Storing It Properly
Homemade almond milk from raw almonds lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge.
Keep it in a sealed jar and give it a shake before each use since it separates naturally.
So, Do You Use Raw Almonds for Almond Milk?
You do use raw almonds for almond milk, and it’s the best choice for creamy, flavorful results.
Raw almonds give you a neutral taste, smoother texture, and more nutrients than roasted almonds.
Just remember to soak them first, blend with fresh water, and strain well for the perfect batch.
Hope this post has helped you see why using raw almonds for almond milk is the way to go.