For many coffee drinkers, milk is an essential ingredient in their daily cup of joe. Whether it’s for adding creaminess, balancing out the bitterness, or simply enhancing the flavor, milk has been a go-to option for decades. However, with more and more people embracing a plant-based lifestyle. Dairy milk is no longer the only option. In recent years, there has been a surge in the popularity of milk alternatives, and with good reason. Milk alternatives provide a variety of options that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. They are also better for the environment.

In this blog post, we will explore the best plant based milk alternatives for coffee. Including almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, coconut milk, cashew milk, rice milk, and hemp milk. I tried them all, so I will also discuss the pros and cons of each option, how they compare to dairy milk and most importantly: can they foam as well as milk? So let’s dive into the top healthy milk alternatives for coffee.

Plant Based Milk vs Cow’s Milk: Which One is Better?

Plant-based milk, such as almond, soy, oat, and coconut milk, are generally considered healthier than cow’s milk for several reasons. Let’s break it down…

Calories

Firstly, plant-based milks are often lower in calories and fat than cow’s milk. This makes them a better option for people who are trying to watch their weight or reduce their intake of saturated fat. For example, unsweetened almond milk typically contains only 30-40 calories per cup, compared to about 120 calories in a cup of whole cow’s milk.

Lactose

Secondly, plant-based milks are lactose-free. This makes them a good choice for people who are lactose intolerant. Cow’s milk contains lactose, a type of sugar that many people have trouble digesting. Plant-based milk, on the other hand, are made from ingredients that are naturally lactose-free.

Protien

Thirdly, plant-based milk can provide additional health benefits depending on the type of milk used. For example, soy milk is a good source of protein and contains isoflavones. This may help reduce the risk of certain cancers. Oat milk contains fibre, which can help lower cholesterol levels.

Preference

When it comes to using plant-based milk in coffee, it really depends on personal preference. Some people find that plant-based milk can alter the taste of their coffee, while others prefer the taste of plant-based milk over cow’s milk. It’s important to note that not all plant-based milks are created equal. So it’s always a good idea to check the nutritional information and ingredient list before choosing milk for your coffee.

The Non Dairy Milks We Tested

  • Almond Milk
  • Oat Milk
  • Soy Milk
  • Coconut Milk
  • Cashew Milk
  • Rice Milk
  • Hemp Milk
  • Macadamia Nut Milk

Almond Milk

Almond milk is one of the most popular milk alternatives on the market and for good reason. It has a creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavour that complements coffee well. Almond milk is also low in calories. This makes it a great option for those who are watching their weight. It is also a good source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

Can you Froth Almond Milk: You Can With These Tips!

One of the downsides of almond milk is that it can be quite thin, which means it may not provide the same creamy texture as dairy milk. Additionally, some people may have allergies to almonds, which can limit its accessibility.

When using almond milk in coffee, it is important to note that it may not foam as well as dairy milk. This can make it difficult to create latte art or achieve the same level of foaminess as with dairy milk. However, some baristas have found that adding a small amount of xanthan gum to the milk can help it foam better.

Suggested: Can you Freeze Almond Milk? Yes! Here’s How!

Oat Milk

Oat milk has become a popular alternative to dairy milk in recent years. Particularly as a plant-based option for coffee drinkers. Oat milk is made by blending oats with water and then straining the mixture to remove any solids. The resulting liquid is creamy and has a slightly sweet, nutty flavour that makes it an ideal addition to coffee.

One of the benefits of using oat milk in coffee is that it produces a foam similar to that of dairy milk, making it an excellent choice for lattes and cappuccinos. It is also a great choice for those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy. Oat milk is naturally free of lactose and casein, two common allergens found in cow’s milk.

Oat milk is also a good source of nutrients, including fibre, calcium, vitamin D, and iron. It is also lower in fat and calories than whole milk. This makes it a healthier option for those looking to reduce their calorie intake or follow a plant-based diet.

When choosing oat milk for coffee, it is important to look for varieties that are specifically designed for use in coffee. Some brands may not produce the desired foam or texture. It is also important to be aware of any added sugars or preservatives that may be present in certain brands.

Suggested: Can you Freeze Oat Milk? What You Need to Know

Soy Milk

Soy milk is a popular alternative to dairy milk when it comes to making coffee. It is a plant-based milk that is made by soaking and grinding soybeans, and then boiling the mixture to produce a creamy liquid.

One of the main reasons why soy milk is a popular choice for coffee drinkers is because it has a similar texture and consistency to dairy milk, which makes it a good replacement in recipes that call for milk. Soy milk also has a mild and slightly nutty flavour that complements the taste of coffee. It can be used in both hot and cold coffee drinks.

Another benefit of using soy milk in coffee is that it is lactose-free, making it a great option for people who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy. Soy milk is also low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free, making it a healthier alternative to dairy milk.

The downside of Soy Milk in Coffee

When using soy milk in coffee, it is important to note that it may curdle if the coffee is too hot or acidic. To prevent this from happening, it is best to heat the soy milk separately before adding it to the coffee. It is also important to choose a high-quality soy milk that is specifically designed for use in coffee. Some soy milks may have a more pronounced flavour that can overpower the taste of the coffee.

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is another popular alternative to dairy milk when it comes to making coffee. It is a plant-based milk that is made by blending coconut meat with water and then straining the mixture to produce a creamy liquid. It is the creamiest milk alternative for coffee.

One of the main benefits of using coconut milk in coffee is its rich and creamy texture, which makes it a great substitute for dairy milk. Coconut milk also has a slightly sweet and nutty flavour that complements the taste of coffee, and it can be used in both hot and cold coffee drinks.

Another advantage of using coconut milk in coffee is that it is lactose-free and vegan, making it a great option for people who are lactose intolerant or follow a plant-based diet. Coconut milk is also rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a type of healthy fat that is easily metabolized by the body for energy.

The downside of Coconut Milk in Coffee

When using coconut milk in coffee, it is important to note that it may separate if the coffee is too hot. To prevent this from happening, it is best to heat the coconut milk separately before adding it to the coffee. It is also important to choose a high-quality coconut milk that is specifically designed for use in coffee, as some coconut milks may have a more pronounced flavour that can overpower the taste of the coffee.

Cashew Milk

Cashew milk is a lesser-known but increasingly popular alternative to dairy milk when it comes to making coffee. It is a plant-based milk that is made by blending cashews with water and then straining the mixture to produce a creamy liquid.

One of the main benefits of using cashew milk in coffee is its mild and slightly sweet flavour, which complements the taste of coffee without overpowering it. Cashew milk also has a creamy texture that is similar to dairy milk, making it a great substitute in recipes that call for milk.

Another advantage of using cashew milk in coffee is that it is low in calories and fat, making it a great option for those who are watching their weight. Cashew milk is also rich in vitamins and minerals. Including calcium, iron, and vitamin E, which can help support overall health.

Does Cashew Milk Froth Well?

When using cashew milk in coffee, it is important to note that it may not froth as well as dairy milk. This makes it a less suitable for latte art or frothy coffee drinks. It is also important to choose a high-quality cashew milk that is specifically designed for use in coffee, as some cashew milk may have a more pronounced flavour that can affect the taste of the coffee.

Rice Milk

Rice milk is a popular plant-based milk alternative that has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its unique taste and nutritional benefits. It is made by blending milled rice with water and straining the mixture to remove any solids.

One of the advantages of using rice milk as a substitute for milk in coffee is that it is naturally lactose-free and vegan-friendly. This makes it a great option for those with dietary restrictions or allergies. Additionally, rice milk is low in fat and calories, which can be beneficial for those trying to maintain a healthy diet.

Does Rice Milk Froth Well?

When it comes to using rice milk in coffee, it is important to note that it may not froth as well as dairy milk. This is because it lacks the proteins and fats found in dairy milk that help create a stable foam. However, there are alternative methods for frothing rice milk, such as using a milk frother. Also, blending it with a small amount of coconut oil or soy lecithin.

Why we loved Rice Milk

In terms of taste, rice milk has a slightly sweet and nutty flavour that can complement the taste of coffee. It also has a thinner consistency compared to dairy milk, which can be a preference for some coffee drinkers.

Macadamia Nut Milk

Macadamia nut milk is a plant-based milk alternative that has gained popularity in recent years. This is thanks to its creamy texture, rich flavour, and numerous health benefits. Macadamia nut milk is made from macadamia nuts, which are high in healthy fats, proteins, and other essential nutrients.

One of the advantages of using macadamia nut milk as a substitute for dairy milk in coffee is that it has a creamy and nutty flavour that can complement the taste of coffee. Additionally, it is naturally lactose-free and vegan-friendly. Making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions or allergies.

Does Macadamia Nut Milk Froth Well?

When it comes to using macadamia nut milk in coffee, it is important to note that it froths extremely well and can create a stable and creamy foam similar to dairy milk. This is because it contains natural fats and proteins that help create a stable foam. Additionally, it has a thicker consistency than some other plant-based milk alternatives. This can be a preference for some coffee drinkers.

Why we Loved Macadamia Nut Milk

Macadamia nut milk is also rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease and other health problems. It is also low in calories and sugar, which can be beneficial for those trying to maintain a healthy diet.

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