Are you looking to incorporate more plant-based milks into your cooking and baking?
If so, you may be wondering if oat milk can be used in instant pudding. The answer is yes!
Oat milk is a great dairy-free substitute for milk in pudding, and it offers a subtle flavor that can add an extra layer of complexity to the dessert.
However, it’s important to note that oat milk cannot be used at a 1-to-1 ratio with instant pudding mix.
In this article, we’ll explore how to make plant-based pudding with oat milk using both JELL-O Instant Pudding and JELL-O Cook & Serve Pudding.
So, let’s get started!
Can I Use Oat Milk For Instant Pudding?
Yes, you can use oat milk for instant pudding, but it’s important to adjust the ratio of milk to pudding mix.
When making instant pudding with oat milk, use 3/4 of the amount specified in the recipe. For example, if the instructions call for two cups of milk, use 1 1/2 cups of oat milk instead. This will ensure that the pudding sets properly and has the right consistency.
It’s also important to note that not all plant-based milks work well with instant pudding mix. Almond milk, for example, is often too thin and may not set properly. Rice milk is a good option to consider as it has a subtle flavor and tends to work well with instant pudding mix.
If you’re using JELL-O Puddings, you can replace dairy milk with oat milk, soy milk, almond milk, and other plant-based milks. However, it’s not a direct 1-to-1 ratio, so be sure to read the instructions carefully and adjust accordingly.
Why Use Oat Milk In Instant Pudding?
Oat milk is a great option for those who are looking for a vegan-friendly substitute for dairy milk in instant pudding. It offers a subtle flavor and just enough thickness to properly replace milk without affecting the texture of the pudding. Oat milk is also a great option for fruit-flavored puddings, such as lime, lemon, and orange, as well as traditional flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and tapioca.
Compared to other plant-based milks, oat milk has a creamy texture that works well in instant pudding. When developing a recipe with JELL-O Instant Pudding, culinary experts recommend using 1-1/2 cups of either refrigerated oat milk or almond milk to prepare all JELL-O Cook & Serve Puddings. This substitution will not only help you achieve the desired consistency but also provide a subtle flavor that complements the pudding mix.
Oat milk is also an excellent choice for those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy. It is free from lactose and casein proteins that many people are allergic to, making it an ideal alternative to cow’s milk.
In addition to its taste and texture benefits, oat milk is also an environmentally friendly choice. Compared to other commercially available plant-based milks, oats require less water to grow than almonds or cashews on average. They also require more than six times that amount of water to grow.
Understanding The Ratios: Oat Milk Vs. Dairy Milk
When it comes to substituting oat milk for dairy milk in cooking and baking, understanding the ratios is key. While oat milk can be used as a substitute for cow’s milk, it’s important to note that the ratio is not always a 1-to-1 swap.
When substituting oat milk in sweet recipes such as custards, mousses, buttercreams, and ganache, it’s best to start with a higher-in-fat-content, unflavored oat milk. These will typically be labeled “extra-creamy” on the carton or have a higher fat content listed on the nutrition label. In these cases, oat milk can be swapped using a 1:1 ratio for traditional milk without sacrificing taste or texture.
However, when it comes to baked items, non-dairy alternatives can sometimes lack the golden-brown finish that occurs when there’s a specific amount of fat and sugar present. To help with browning, scan the recipe for opportunities to increase fat by adding a tablespoon of oil or butter per cup of oat milk for a fat content that’s similar to whole milk. Alternatively, finishing the pastry with a brush of oat milk and sprinkle of turbinado sugar can also create a sparkly effect.
It’s important to note that not all plant-based milks work well in every recipe. While almond milk may be too thin for instant pudding mix, rice milk may be a better option due to its subtle flavor and tendency to work well with instant pudding mix. When using JELL-O Puddings, it’s possible to replace dairy milk with oat milk, soy milk, almond milk, and other plant-based milks. However, it’s important to read the instructions carefully and adjust accordingly as it’s not always a direct 1-to-1 ratio swap.
Making Instant Pudding With Oat Milk
Making instant pudding with oat milk is a simple process, but it’s important to follow the correct ratio and instructions to ensure that the pudding sets properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Gather your ingredients: instant pudding mix and oat milk.
2. In a mixing bowl, add the instant pudding mix and 3/4 of the amount of oat milk called for in the instructions. For example, if the instructions call for two cups of milk, use 1 1/2 cups of oat milk instead.
3. Whisk the mixture together for 2 minutes until it becomes thick and creamy.
4. Let the pudding sit for 5 minutes to thicken further.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
It’s important to note that the flavor and texture of the pudding may be slightly different when using oat milk instead of dairy milk. Oat milk has a subtle flavor that may not be as noticeable in some flavors of pudding, but it can add a pleasant nuttiness to others.
Tips For Perfect Plant-Based Pudding With Oat Milk
Here are some tips to help you make perfect plant-based pudding with oat milk:
1. Choose the right type of oat milk: Not all oat milks are created equal, and some may be too thin or too thick for pudding. Look for a creamy and thick oat milk that has a neutral flavor.
2. Adjust the ratio of milk to pudding mix: As mentioned earlier, use 3/4 of the amount of oat milk specified in the recipe. This will help the pudding set properly and have the right consistency.
3. Whisk thoroughly: When adding the cold oat milk to the pudding mix, whisk well until there are no lumps. Once you turn on the stove, whisk constantly, scraping the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking.
4. Use JELL-O Cook & Serve Puddings: If you’re looking for more options, JELL-O Cook & Serve Puddings work well with oat milk and other plant-based milks. Follow the instructions carefully and adjust accordingly.
5. Experiment with flavors: Oat milk has a subtle flavor that works well with many different types of pudding. Try adding different spices or extracts to create unique flavors.
By following these tips, you can make delicious and creamy plant-based pudding with oat milk that everyone will enjoy.
Using Oat Milk In Cook & Serve Pudding
Cook & serve pudding requires a bit more attention when using oat milk. Unlike instant pudding, cook & serve pudding needs to be heated on the stove and thickened with cornstarch or flour. This means that the milk needs to be heated to a certain temperature to activate the thickening agent.
When using oat milk in cook & serve pudding, it’s important to use a high-quality, unsweetened oat milk like Califia Farms Unsweetened Oatmilk. The neutral taste of oat milk makes it a great substitute for dairy milk in cook & serve pudding recipes.
To use oat milk in cook & serve pudding, heat the milk in a saucepan until it reaches a simmer. In a separate bowl, mix together the pudding mix and cornstarch or flour. Slowly whisk the dry ingredients into the simmering oat milk until well combined.
Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-10 minutes. Remove the pudding from the heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Final Thoughts: Enjoying Delicious Dairy-Free Pudding With Oat Milk
If you’re looking to incorporate more plant-based milks into your cooking and baking, pudding is a great place to start. Not only is it possible to make pudding with oat milk, but it’s also a delicious and healthy alternative to dairy milk. Oat milk is a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or have other dietary restrictions, as it’s dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free (if using certified gluten-free oats).
When making oat milk pudding, there are many options to choose from, including JELL-O Instant Pudding and JELL-O Cook & Serve Pudding. You can also use coconut milk, almond milk, cashew milk, and soy milk as substitutes for cow’s milk in instant pudding. Each one has a slightly different flavor that can add an extra layer of complexity to the pudding.
It’s important to keep in mind that not all plant-based milks work well with instant pudding mix. Almond milk, for example, may be too thin and not set properly. Rice milk is a great option to consider as it has a subtle flavor and tends to work well with instant pudding mix.
