Are you a coffee lover who wants to enjoy your favorite beverage without dairy? If so, you may be wondering what the best non-dairy milk for coffee is. Many plant-based alternatives to cow’s milk exist. Each has its own flavor, texture, and nutritional profile. But not all work well with coffee, especially if you want to create a creamy and frothy drink. In this blog post, we will compare different non-dairy milks for coffee. We’ll help you find the one that suits your taste and health goals.
What Difference Does the Milk Make in Coffee?
Milk is crucial in coffee drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. It is an important ingredient in flat whites as well. It adds richness, sweetness, and body to the coffee, as well as creating a smooth and velvety foam on top. Milk helps balance acidity and bitterness in coffee. It makes coffee more enjoyable and palatable.
But, not everyone can or wants to consume dairy milk, for various reasons. Some people cannot tolerate lactose or have dairy allergies. Others choose a vegan or plant-based diet for ethical or environmental reasons. Some may choose non-dairy milk for weight loss. Certain plant-based milks have fewer calories, fat, and sugar than cow’s milk.
Why Does the Milk Matter?
When choosing a non-dairy milk for coffee, there are several factors to consider, such as:
- Flavor: The flavor of the non-dairy milk should complement the flavor of the coffee, not overpower or clash with it.
- Texture: The texture of the non-dairy milk should be smooth and creamy, not watery or grainy.
- Foamability: The ability to create a stable and airy foam when steamed or frothed is crucial for certain coffee drinks.
- Nutrition: The nutritional content should match dietary needs and goals, considering calories, protein, fat, sugar, calcium, and vitamins.
The Best Plant-Based Milks For Coffee
1. Soy Milk
- Flavor: Slightly sweet and nutty in coffee.
- Texture: Creamy and blends well with most types of coffee beans.
- Foamability: High foamability; ideal for lattes or cappuccinos.
- Calories per 2 Tablespoons: Approximately 25-30.
What Does Soy Milk Taste Like in Coffee?
Soy milk tastes slightly sweet and nutty in coffee and blends well with most types of coffee beans. It can create a nice foam on top of the coffee, making it ideal for lattes or cappuccinos. However, it might be too thick or heavy for some and could curdle if the coffee is too acidic or hot.
Does Soy Milk Make a Good Coffee?
Soy milk is a great option for people who enjoy creamy, non-dairy milk. Rich in protein and calcium, soy milk is a good choice for vegans and individuals with dairy intolerance or allergies. But, it might not suit those allergic or sensitive to soy or who prefer a lighter milk.
2. Almond Milk
- Flavor: Sweet and nutty, adding a subtle almond flavor.
- Texture: Thin consistency that may not suit everyone.
- Foamability: Low foamability; could curdle in acidic or hot coffee.
- Calories per 2 Tablespoons: Approximately 15-20.
What Does Almond Milk Taste Like in Coffee?
Almond milk tastes sweet and nutty, adding a subtle almond flavor and reducing coffee bitterness. However, its thin consistency might not suit everyone and could curdle if the coffee is too acidic or hot.
Does Almond Milk Make a Good Coffee?
Almond milk is suitable for those seeking a sweet, low-calorie, and low-fat option. However, it might not be ideal for those allergic or sensitive to nuts or seeking a creamier milk.
3. Coconut Milk
- Flavor: Sweet and tropical, adding a rich flavor.
- Texture: Rich, which might be overpowering for some.
- Foamability: Low foamability; could curdle in acidic or hot coffee.
- Calories per 2 Tablespoons: Approximately 20-25.
What Does Coconut Milk Taste Like in Coffee?
Coconut milk tastes sweet and tropical, adding a rich flavor. However, it might be too rich or overpowering for some, and could curdle if the coffee is too acidic or hot.
Does Coconut Milk Make a Good Coffee?
Coconut milk suits those craving a rich, high-fat, and high-sugar non-dairy milk. It might not be suitable for those allergic or sensitive to coconut or preferring a lighter milk.
4. Oat Milk
- Flavor: Mild and slightly sweet, adding a smooth and creamy texture.
- Texture: Creamy and environmentally friendly.
- Foamability: High foamability; suitable for lattes or cappuccinos.
- Calories per 2 Tablespoons: Approximately 20-30.
What Does Oat Milk Taste Like in Coffee?
Oat milk tastes mild and slightly sweet, adding a smooth and creamy texture. It’s suitable for those looking for an environmentally friendly option. However, it might be too bland for some or could curdle in acidic or hot coffee.
Does Oat Milk Make a Good Coffee?
Oat milk is suitable for those who prefer a mild, environmentally friendly, and lactose-free milk. It might not suit those allergic or sensitive to gluten or seeking a more flavorful milk.
5. Cashew Milk
- Flavor: Mild and sweet, adding a thick and creamy texture.
- Texture: Thick and creamy, high in protein and calcium.
- Foamability: Low foamability; might curdle in acidic or hot coffee.
- Calories per 2 Tablespoons: Approximately 25-30.
What Does Cashew Milk Taste Like in Coffee?
Cashew milk tastes mild and slightly sweet, adding a thick and creamy texture. It’s high in protein and calcium but might be too heavy for some or could curdle in acidic or hot coffee.
Does Cashew Milk Make a Good Coffee?
Cashew milk is suitable for those preferring a thick, creamy, and nutritious non-dairy milk. But, it might not be ideal for those allergic or sensitive to nuts or seeking a lighter milk.
6. Rice Milk
- Flavor: Neutral and slightly sweet, adding a lightness to coffee.
- Texture: Thin and lacks flavor and body.
- Foamability: Low foamability; might curdle in acidic or hot coffee.
- Calories per 2 Tablespoons: Approximately 20-25.
What Does Rice Milk Taste Like in Coffee?
Rice milk tastes neutral and slightly sweet, adding a lightness to the coffee. It’s suitable for those seeking a low-allergenic and low-fat option. It may be too watery for some or lack flavor and body.
Does Rice Milk Make a Good Coffee?
Rice milk is suitable for those preferring a neutral, low-allergenic, and simple non-dairy milk. However, it might not suit those seeking a more nutritious or creamy option.
7. Pea Milk
- Flavor: Mild and slightly nutty, with a subtle pea undertone.
- Texture: Creamy and smooth, similar to dairy milk.
- Foamability: Moderate foamability; suitable for various coffee drinks.
- Calories per 2 Tablespoons: Approximately 25-40.
What Does Pea Milk Taste Like in Coffee?
Pea milk has a mild and slightly nutty flavor with a subtle pea undertone. Its creamy and smooth texture resembles dairy milk, making it a versatile option. However, its foamability might vary and might not match preferences for certain coffee styles.
Does Pea Milk Make a Good Coffee?
Pea milk is suitable for those seeking a creamy, smooth, and dairy-free alternative. However, it may not suit those allergic or sensitive to legumes or who desire a stronger foam for specific coffee drinks.
8. Hemp Milk
- Flavor: Earthy and slightly nutty.
- Texture: Thin and watery, might lack creaminess.
- Foamability: Low foamability; might not create a stable foam.
- Calories per 2 Tablespoons: Approximately 40-60.
What Does Hemp Milk Taste Like in Coffee?
Hemp milk has an earthy and slightly nutty flavor. However, its thin and watery texture might not suit everyone and could affect its ability to create a stable foam for certain coffee drinks.
Does Hemp Milk Make a Good Coffee?
Hemp milk is suitable for those preferring an earthy, nutty flavor. However, its low foamability might not be ideal for those seeking a creamy foam for lattes or cappuccinos.
9. Hazelnut Milk
- Flavor: Sweet and nutty, with a distinct hazelnut taste.
- Texture: Creamy and smooth, providing richness.
- Foamability: Moderate foamability; suitable for some coffee drinks.
- Calories per 2 Tablespoons: Approximately 20-30.
What Does Hazelnut Milk Taste Like in Coffee?
Hazelnut milk offers a sweet and nutty flavor, with a distinct hazelnut taste. Its creamy and smooth texture provides richness to coffee. However, its foamability might not meet preferences for certain coffee styles.
Does Hazelnut Milk Make a Good Coffee?
Hazelnut milk is suitable for those desiring a sweet, nutty flavor and creaminess in their coffee. However, its foamability might not suit those seeking a stable foam for specific coffee drinks.
10. Macadamia Milk
- Flavor: Creamy, rich, and mildly sweet.
- Texture: Creamy and smooth, similar to dairy milk.
- Foamability: Good foamability; suitable for various coffee drinks.
- Calories per 2 Tablespoons: Approximately 25-30.
What Does Macadamia Milk Taste Like in Coffee?
Macadamia milk has a creamy, rich, and mildly sweet flavor, resembling dairy milk. Its creamy and smooth texture makes it a versatile option for coffee. It has good foamability, suitable for various coffee drinks.
Does Macadamia Milk Make a Good Coffee?
Macadamia milk is suitable for those desiring a creamy, rich, and slightly sweet taste in their coffee. Its good foamability makes it versatile for different coffee styles.
Comparison Chart of Non-Dairy Milks for Coffee
| Non-Dairy Milk | Calories per 2 Tablespoons | Foamability | Pros | Cons | Nutritional Content | Allergen Information | Taste Profile | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soy Milk | Approximately 25-30 | High | Creamy texture, high in protein and calcium | May curdle if too acidic or hot, some may not like the taste | Protein, calcium, vitamin B12 | May contain soy | Slightly sweet and nutty | Vegans, lactose intolerant |
| Almond Milk | Approximately 15-20 | Low | Sweet, nutty flavor, low-calorie option | Thin consistency, may curdle in acidic or hot coffee | Vitamin E, low in calories | May contain nuts | Sweet and nutty | Low-calorie seekers, lactose intolerant |
| Coconut Milk | Approximately 20-25 | Low | Rich, tropical flavor, high in fat | High in saturated fat, may curdle in acidic or hot coffee | Saturated fat | May contain coconut | Sweet and tropical | Those seeking richness, lactose intolerant |
| Oat Milk | Approximately 20-30 | High | Creamy texture, environmentally friendly | May curdle in acidic or hot coffee, some may find it bland | Dietary fiber, iron | Gluten-free | Mild and slightly sweet | Environmentally conscious, lactose intolerant |
| Cashew Milk | Approximately 25-30 | Low | Creamy texture, high in protein and calcium | May curdle in acidic or hot coffee, high in calories | Protein, calcium, vitamin B12 | May contain nuts | Mild and slightly sweet | Those seeking creaminess, lactose intolerant |
| Rice Milk | Approximately 20-25 | Low | Neutral flavor, low in allergens | Thin consistency, lacks flavor and creaminess | Low allergens | Gluten-free | Neutral and slightly sweet | Allergen-sensitive individuals |
| Pea Milk | Approximately 25-40 | Moderate | Mild and slightly nutty, creamy and smooth | May not produce desired foam, allergenic for some | Protein, calcium, vitamins A and D | Pea allergen | Mild and slightly nutty | Creamy, allergen-sensitive individuals |
| Hemp Milk | Approximately 40-60 | Low | Earthy and slightly nutty | Thin consistency, may not produce desired foam | Omega-3, omega-6 fatty acids | Hemp allergen | Earthy and slightly nutty | Those seeking earthy flavors, allergen-sensitive individuals |
| Hazelnut Milk | Approximately 20-30 | Moderate | Sweet and nutty, creamy and smooth | May not produce desired foam, allergenic for some | Vitamin E, monounsaturated fats | May contain nuts | Sweet and nutty | Those seeking creamy, nutty flavors, allergen-sensitive individuals |
| Macadamia Milk | Approximately 25-30 | Good | Creamy, rich, and mildly sweet | May not produce desired foam, allergenic for some | Monounsaturated fats | May contain nuts | Creamy, rich, and mildly sweet | Those seeking rich, slightly sweet flavors, allergen-sensitive individuals |
Plant-Based Milk Alternatives for Coffee
There are many different non-dairy milks for coffee, each with its pros and cons. The best one depends on your taste, preference, and health goals. Try out various options to discover what works for you. Take into account the impact on the environment, the cost, and the availability.
We hope this blog post has helped you find the best non-dairy milk for coffee. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Thank you for reading and happy coffee drinking!
