Homemade Quinoa Milk Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dairy-free milk that’s more than a thin alternative, quinoa milk might just become your new favorite. Thrive Market’s version transforms cooked quinoa into a silky, nutrient-forward milk that offers more protein and fewer calories than most nut milks—a rare combo in the plant-based milk world.

This milk recipe calls for just a few clean ingredients—cooked quinoa, water, and optional flavorings like vanilla, cinnamon, or a touch of raw honey—without any fillers, gums, or preservatives. Because it uses quinoa and water exclusively (plus natural add-ins), and contains no dairy, soy, or gluten, it aligns naturally as a dairy-free and gluten-free beverage when made in a clean, controlled environment.

Quinoa milk stands out in the plant-milk category for its protein content and versatility. Pour it over cereal, blend it into smoothies, or use it as a base in baking or coffee drinks. It’s lighter than nut milks, subtler than oat milks, and carries a neutral “almost almond-like” flavor that lets other ingredients shine.

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Homemade Quinoa Milk

Quinoa Milk Ingredients

• 1 cup rinsed and cooked quinoa
• 2 cups water, plus up to 6 cups of water
• Cinnamon, vanilla extract, or raw honey to taste (optional)

How to Make Quinoa Milk

1. Add cooked quinoa and 2 cups water to a blender. Blend on high until smooth and thoroughly combined.



2. Blend in more water, in batches, until you’re happy with the consistency. To get the thinner consistency of store-bought quinoa milk, add up to 6 more cups of water.



3. Use a nut milk bag or cheesecloth to strain mixture into a glass. If using a high-powered blender, you may skip this step.



4. Add a teaspoon of cinnamon, raw honey, or vanilla and stir if desired. Store in jar with a sealable lid in the fridge up to two days.

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Quinoa Milk Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per 1 cup serving (recipe yields 4–8 servings). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1 cup
Calories	≈ 60 kcal
Protein	≈ 2 g
Carbs	≈ 10 g
Sugar	≈ 1 g
Fiber	≈ 1 g
Fat	≈ 1 g

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Quinoa Milk Variations & Tips

• Adjust creaminess: Use less water for a thicker milk or more water for a lighter texture.
• Flavor infusions: Add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, or a pinch of sea salt for depth.
• Sweetener options: Use raw honey, maple syrup, or omit entirely if you want an unsweetened version.
• Straining tips: Use a nut milk bag, fine mesh, or cheesecloth to remove solids; a high-power blender may reduce the need for fine straining.
• Storage advice: Keep refrigerated in a sealed jar; use within 2 days for best freshness.

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Best Quinoa Milk Pairings

• Oatmeal or granola: Use as the milk component in bowls for added protein and creaminess.
• Smoothies: Blend quinoa milk with fruit, greens, or protein powders for a silky base.
• Hot beverages: Use it in coffee, chai, or hot chocolate as a dairy-free creamer alternative.
• Vegan baking: Substitute quinoa milk for any milk in muffins, pancakes, or cakes.
• Over cereal or chia pudding: A clean, nourishing pour-over milk for morning meals.

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When to Make Quinoa Milk

• Plant-based breakfasts: Make it part of your weekly milk rotation for cereal, oatmeal, or smoothie bowls.
• Vegan brunches: Serve it alongside other dairy-free milks for guests to try.
• Cooking demos or workshops: Show how easy it is to make homemade milk from an unexpected source.
• Healthy snack prep: Use it in overnight oats, puddings, or shake recipes for mid-week boost.
• Allergy-safe entertaining: A milk option that’s free of dairy, soy, and nuts (assuming no cross-contamination).

Photo credit: Alicia Cho