How To Make Coconut Milk (3 Ways) (2024)

August 18, 2023 | 31 Comments

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Looking for a healthy dairy-free alternative to cow’s milk? Learn how to make coconut milk at home with just two ingredients! This excellent substitute is full of healthy fats and essential nutrients.

Coconut milk is an excellent alternative to cow’s milk, especially since most options are high in PUFA (polyunsaturated fat) and anti-nutrients. While great coconut milk is widely available in stores, you can quickly (and cheaply) make it at home in minutes.

What is coconut milk, and how is it made?

Coconut milk is surprisingly easy to make if you have the right tools. There are a few ways to make it at home; with fresh coconut meat, dried coconut, and coconut milk powder. (Note: there’s a printable recipe card & video at the bottom of this post with full instructions on how to make coconut milk)

How to make coconut milk from dried coconut meat: Blend 1 cup of shredded coconut with 2 cups of water. Strain and store in an air-tight container. Simple. Straightforward.

How to make coconut milk from raw coconut meat: Blend 1 cup of raw coconut with 2 cups of water. Strain and store in an air-tight container.

How to make coconut milk from coconut milk powder: Mix four tablespoons of coconut milk powder with 3/4 cup of warm water.

Recipes with Coconut Milk

Having coconut milk on hand incredibly useful, not just as a beverage. You can use it to makeyogurt, but you can also makecoffee creamerand eveneggnogfor the holidays. Of course, it’s not cow milk. But it’s wholesome and a great substitution for those looking for a dairy-free alternative.

Here’s a list of recipes made with Coconut Milk:

Coconut Ice Cream
Sweetened Condensed Coconut Milk
Coconut Milk Hot Chocolate
Iced Coconut Milk Latte
Cream of Coconut Recipe (for making co*cktails)
Coconut Milk Chia Pudding
Coconut Milk Shake Recipe

Where To Buy Coconut Milk

I’m often asked which coconut milk brand I use. The best place to get it is right at home. That way, you can avoid the harmful gums, carrageenan, and BPA found in the store-bought versions. Your next best choice would be to buy Natural Valley, which in my opinion is the best coconut milk you can buy – check out that article if you want to see the full research process.

FAQ

Can I freeze leftover coconut milk?

Yes, coconut milk can be frozen and stored for up to a month. Learn how to freeze coconut milk here.

Do I need to shake the coconut milk before using it?

Yes, please always shake it before using. Because there aren’t any additives in this recipe, the coconut cream will naturally separate from the milk.

Can I use coconut cream instead of coconut milk in recipes?

Coconut cream is higher in fat the coconut milk and isn’t a 1:1 substitute. You can however, make coconut milk from coconut cream by mixing four tablespoons of coconut cream with 3/4 cup of warm water.

Is making coconut milk cheaper?

Yes, making coconut milk at home is LOADS cheaper than buying it at the store. You’re trading time for money by making it at home, and you’re trading money for time by buying it at the store. It all depends on what you’re looking for!