Ingredients You Need
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients on hand. (You probably have all of them already!) This drink for kids is so quick and easy, and I have to admit I was shocked by how good it is. I don’t regularly drink milk on its own, but this makes me kind of want to. (Same with my other Flavored Milks.) This is great as a healthy snack to make at home, or to pair with mini muffin recipes, Cheese Crackers, Graham Crackers, or any easy toddler meal. Or with a favorite cookie such as my Baby Cookies or Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies. I typically make this with whole dairy milk, but it works with any milk you like to have on hand. (Find more about milk for toddlers, too.) Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox.
Milk: You can use whole dairy milk or a favorite nondairy milk such as almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or a mixed-nut milk. Milks with fat in them will be creamiest. Maple syrup or honey: This is an easy way to sweeten the milk and have it blend right in. Agave nectar would also work well here. Pure vanilla extract: Be sure to use pure vanilla extract, not artificial vanilla, for the best natural flavor. (In baking, I often use one or the other, but since there are so few ingredients here, this ingredient really impacts to how it tastes.) You can use alcohol-free vanilla extract if you prefer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
The process for this flavored milk is so easy! Just add the ingredients to a measuring cup, whisk to blend, and serve up. You don’t even need a blender and you could use a fork if you don’t have a whisk.
Best Milk for Vanilla Milk
I prefer to make this with whole milk since I think it tastes best (and kids need fat for proper development), but you can use whichever kind of milk you prefer. It will work with plain, unsweetened nondairy milk, though you’ll need to taste it and adjust the vanilla and sweetener since nondairy milk can vary widely in terms of flavor. To make this dairy-free, use a plain unsweetened nondairy milk of your choosing.
How to Store
You can make this vanilla milk right before you serve it or stash it in the fridge in an airtight container or jar for up to 3 days. Shake before serving for the best texture.
Best Tips for Success
Use honey or agave instead of the maple syrup in this vanilla milk if you prefer. You can make sweet vanilla milk or less sweet, according to your preference. Use whole milk or any type of milk your family prefers including low-fat milk or skim milk. To make this dairy-free, use plain unsweetened nondairy milk of your choosing. It will work with plain, unsweetened nondairy milk or lactose-free milk, though you’ll need to taste it and adjust the vanilla and sweetener since nondairy milk can vary widely in terms of flavor. Warm the homemade vanilla milk recipe slightly in a small mug to make it into a hot vanilla milk or warm vanilla milk. Serve it in a straw cup, an open cup, or a smoothie cup. You can use alcohol-free vanilla extract if you prefer. You may also like Strawberry Milk, Chocolate Milk, Strawberry Milk, and Banana Milk. And my Healthy Hot Chocolate.
I’d love to know what your kids think of this recipe, so please comment below to share.
Favorite Yogurt Drinks
Healthy Vanilla Cupcakes
Favorite Toddler Smoothie (with Veggies!)
Vanilla Whole Wheat Waffles
This post was first published August 2020.
