Gone are the days of trekking to a specialty grocery store just to find that healthier, dairy-free alternative. The increased demand for dairy-free milk has these healthier beverage options available in more places than not! Grocery stores, restaurants, cafes, and even convenience stores are stocking their shelves with milk alternatives, which (finally) makes ordering out or shopping for any diet and food preference easier than ever.
But, if you’ve yet to hop on the dairy-free milk trend, you may be overwhelmed with the number of options you have. Plus, the initial switch can feel challenging at first if you’re giving the non-dairy milk a try due to dietary restrictions. I mean, let’s face it, not all plant-based milk has the same creamy consistency dairy-based milk does. But, don’t worry, many do! In fact, some of our favorite non-dairy milks are even sweeter and creamier than a tall glass of dairy milk, and they come with some impressive health benefits!
So yes, you can still have your creamy coffee creamer in the morning or milk with your morning bowl of oats. The great news is that there are quite a few dairy-free milk options out there that provide you with some of the same nutrients as cow’s milk (i.e., calcium and protein).
So, let’s jump in and look at the seven best milk alternatives you need to try ASAP. These will have you ditching dairy milk in no time.
The 7 Best Milk Alternatives
Oat Milk
Oat milk — the trendy plant milk alternative we just can’t get enough of. Chances are, you will find oat milk lattes at just about every coffee shop you go to. It’s thick, creamy, and makes the perfect addition to any warm or iced drink. However, this dairy-free milk isn’t only great with your morning cup of joe, it’s also an excellent dairy-free milk option for anyone who is looking for a creamy and mild-flavored dairy-free option to add to their favorite dessert recipe, or to make into a healthy vegan chocolate milk to enjoy after your favorite FitOn workout.
Consistency & Flavor: Oat milk is thick, creamy, slightly sweet and pairs well with just about anything.
Nutritional Benefits: This milk alternative is soy-free, a great source of B vitamins, fiber, and even contains a decent amount of protein. What’s not to love?
Good to know: If you like your milk creamy, but not overpowering, then you may want to jump on the oat milk bandwagon. This dairy-free milk does not disappoint and makes a convenient option. Just be sure to read the ingredient labels! Some varieties contain hidden additives and sneaky ingredients like processed oils or sugar.
Cons: This milk is not a good option for anyone who is following a grain-free diet or those who are on a low-carb or ketogenic diet as it is higher in carbs than other dairy-free options on this list.
Taste: Mild & sweet.
Works best with: Coffee, tea, smoothies, desserts.
How to Use Oat Milk:
- Make a creamy oat milk coffee or matcha latte
- Use it as the base in a thick, protein-rich post-workout smoothie
- Swap it for dairy milk in a savory soup or sauce
- Blend up a decadent chocolate pudding with oat milk as your liquid of choice
RELATED: We Tried 5 Different Ways to Drink Oat Milk & This One Was Our Favorite
Homemade Oat Milk Recipe
Oat milk is having its moment, and we’re here for it. Let’s face it, we’re adding this creamy dairy-free milk into everything! But rather than splurging on pricey store-bought brands that contain ingredients like canola oil and gums, make your own with this simple two-ingredient recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled or steel cut oats
- 3-4 cups water
- ½ – 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional add-ins:
- 1-2 medjool dates, pitted (or 1-2 tbsp sweetener of choice)
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
- Flavorings such as cacao or cinnamon
Directions:
Step #1: Add all of the above ingredients, including any flavor add-ins, to a high-speed blender. Once the lid is secure, blend on medium-high until your mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste test and adjust sweetness or flavorings as needed.
Step #2: Pour mixture through a mesh strainer or nut milk bag and into a large pitcher or sealable glass jar, separating the oat milk from the oat pulp.
Step #3: Store the oat milk in an airtight jar, discarding the pulp or saving for future recipes.
Step #4: Drink immediately or store in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Note: In order to avoid a slimy texture from the oats, blend for 30 seconds – 1 minute maximum
Coconut Milk
Looking for a creamy dairy-free milk alternative? Coconut milk may be the creamy beverage you’ve been searching for. The best part about coconut milk is that it comes in many different varieties, and is one of the most popular dairy-free milk options out there. You can find canned coconut milk that still has the fatty coconut cream to use in things like smoothies, or coconut milk from a carton that can be used in place of milk in things like baked goods.
Consistency & Flavor: Canned coconut milk is super creamy, full of healthy fat, and makes the perfect addition to a dairy-free latte or creamy and nutrient-dense smoothie.
Nutritional Benefits: When bought in its canned version, coconut milk is typically free of added oils and stabilizers and comes in different options such as full-fat or lite.
Good to know: The coconut milk you find in a carton works well if you need a ready-for-you milk replacement that has a thinner consistency. Although it’s not nearly as creamy (as it doesn’t contain that fatty coconut cream layer like the canned version does) this variety comes in various flavor options like vanilla, chocolate, and even coconut-cashew. To keep it healthier, stick to the unsweetened versions!
Cons: Not a big fan of coconut? You may want to skip out on the coconut milk craze as it does have a pretty strong coconut flavor.
Taste: Tropical, coconutty, and slightly tangy.
Works best with: Coffee, smoothies, thickening vegan sauce or soup recipes, added to desserts. Canned coconut milk can also be made into a delicious vegan whipped cream.
How to use coconut milk:
- Use it as the base for a curry
- Freeze it into ice cubes and use it as an ice replacement in your smoothie
- Make it into a healthy coconut whipped cream
- Add it to your coffee or froth it into a latte
- Use it as the base liquid for chia pudding or overnight oats
2-Ingredient Homemade Coconut Milk
Once you try this 2-ingredient homemade recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought coconut milk! It’s thick, creamy, and can be easily modified with any flavor additions.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups unsweetened coconut, shredded
- 4 cups water
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Optional flavor add-ins:
- 1 medjool date, pitted (or 1 tbsp sweetener of choice)
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
Directions:
Step #1: Add all of the above ingredients, including any flavor add-ins, to a high-speed blender. Once the lid is secure, blend on medium-high until your mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste test and adjust sweetness or flavorings as needed.
Step #2: Pour mixture through a mesh strainer or nut milk bag and into a large pitcher or sealable glass jar, separating the liquid from the coconut pulp.
Step #3: Store the liquid in an airtight jar and discard the pulp or save for future recipes.
Step #4: Use immediately or store in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Note: Because there are no fillers or stabilizers, the top layer may solidify into a coconut cream while stored in the fridge. To reestablish a smooth consistency, simply give the mixture a good shake while the lid is secured.
Almond Milk
One of the more popular and most readily available dairy-free milk choices. This creamy nut milk is affordable, versatile, and quite simple to make yourself!
Consistency & Flavor: Almond milk is versatile, has a mild taste, and can be used in just about anything you would use dairy milk in. It is lighter and slightly sweeter than dairy milk, with a subtle nutty flavor.
Nutritional Benefits: It’s low in calories (with unsweetened store-bought brands containing just 30-35 calories per cup), low in sugar, and rich in Vitamin E.
Good to know: Imagine all your favorite dairy-filled foods made with almond milk. In addition to milk, you can find almond milk-based coffee creamers, yogurt, cheese, chocolate, and so much more. When it comes to convenience and variety, almond milk wins.
Cons: Almond milk would not be suitable for those with an almond allergy or sensitivity, and it’s not the creamiest dairy-free milk option, so it may take some getting used to if you are used to a creamier consistency.
Taste: Mild & sweet.
Works best with: Coffee, smoothies, baked goods, chia pudding, poured over a bowl of oats.
How to Use Almond Milk:
- Use it as a 1:1 substitute in any baked goods
- Use it as the base for cereal or splash it over granola
- Make a whipped cauliflower or potato mash by blending almond milk with your roasted veggies of choice
- Enjoy it plain alongside breakfast, lunch, or dessert
Homemade Almond Milk Recipe
Store-bought almond milks are full of sneaky additives like gums, oils, and excess sugar. And more often than not, they’re just watered down blends that hardly contain any almonds at all! So why settle for subpar when you could save your money, benefit your health, and make your own two-ingredient blend?
Ingredients:
- 1 cups raw almonds
- 4 cups water
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Optional flavor add-ins:
- 1-2 medjool dates, pitted (or 1-2 tbsp sweetener of choice)
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
Directions:
Step #1: Cover almonds with water and soak overnight (or at least 12 hours) in a bowl.
Step #2: Drain and rinse your almonds, discarding the soaking water.
Step #3: Add all of the above ingredients, including any flavor add-ins, to a high-speed blender. Once the lid is secure, blend on medium-high until your mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste test and adjust sweetness or flavorings as needed.
Step #4: Pour mixture through a mesh strainer or nut milk bag and into a large pitcher or sealable glass jar, separating the almond milk from the almond pulp.
Step #5: Store the almond milk in an airtight jar, discarding the pulp or saving for future recipes.
Step #6: Drink immediately or store in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Hemp Milk
Hemp milk is a go-to choice for the vegan health nut, and that’s because this milk packs in a healthy dose of nutrients, including essential fatty acids and all essential amino acids (yes, it’s a complete protein!). And, although it’s rich in healthy fats, it’s still lower in calories than dairy milk. You really can’t go wrong with hemp milk when it comes to its nutritional value.
Consistency & Flavor: When it comes to consistency, hemp milk can be compared to skim milk in terms of thickness. While hemp milk has a mild taste, it is more earthy and less sweet than other plant-based milk alternatives.
Nutritional Benefits: Lower in calories, high in healthy fats, and an excellent source of essential vitamins, and minerals.
Good to know: Hemp milk is one of the more hypoallergenic dairy-free milk options out there and it tastes delicious in smoothies or poured over a warm bowl of oatmeal.
Cons: One thing to consider is that hemp milk is not as creamy as coconut or cashew milk, so it may not work for recipes that require a creamier milk option. Hemp milk also has a pretty strong nutty taste, so if you’re not big into the taste of hemp seeds, you may be a little put off by the flavor at first. However, there are plenty of ways to introduce this milk into your diet to help you get used to the flavor! If you want to give hemp milk a try, start by blending it into your smoothies.
Taste: Nutty & earthy.
Works best with: Smoothies, desserts.
How to Use Hemp Milk:
- Make it into a protein-rich shake with cacao or cocoa powder, banana, nut butter, and an optional scoop of protein
- Use it as the base for overnight oats — try our Banana Bread or Very Berry recipe!
- Give your pancake batter a nutritional boost by swapping out dairy or other plant milk for hemp milk
Homemade Hemp Milk Recipe
Homemade hemp milk is not only rich in nutrients (like plant-based protein), but it’s also one of the easiest homemade non-dairy milks to make. With no soaking or straining required, you’ll have a freshly made creamy mixture in less than 5 minutes.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup hemp seeds, hulled
- 3-4 cups water
- ½ – 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional flavor add-ins:
- 1-2 medjool dates, pitted (or 1-2 tbsp sweetener of choice)
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
Directions:
Step #1: Add all of the above ingredients, including any flavor add-ins, to a high-speed blender. Once the lid is secure, blend on medium-high until your mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste test and adjust sweetness or flavorings as needed.
Step #2: Pour mixture into a large pitcher or sealable glass jar and store in the fridge.
Step #3: Drink immediately or store in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Note: No straining is necessary with this non-dairy milk, but if you’d like a thinner consistency, strain through a nut milk bag.
Cashew Milk
Cashew milk is becoming more popular. It’s creamy and it makes a great addition to both sweet and savory recipes — add it to a plant-based cheese sauce or use it for a delicious dessert!
Consistency & Flavor: Rich, creamy, and slightly sweet with a mild nutty flavor. It’s great for any recipes or add-ins where you want a creamy flavor — use it as a sub for both whole milk or cream!
Nutritional Benefits: When making homemade cashew milk, the nutritional benefits are amplified since this milk alternative doesn’t require straining. This means you’ll get all the fiber, protein, and nutrients, while still keeping calories low (only 30-50 calories per cup!).
Good to know: Cashew milk is fairly versatile. You can use it in your morning cup of coffee or tea, blended into your smoothies, or added to many of your favorite recipes that need some added creaminess.
Cons: Cashew milk comes with a bit of a higher price point than some of the other options. But, it’s easy to whip up at home! Plus, this is one of the few dairy-free milks that doesn’t require straining. So you’ll save both money and time! Simply blend up soaked cashews with water and any flavoring preferences of your choosing.
Taste: Mild & sweet.
Works best with: Coffee, smoothies, desserts, vegan sauces, or curries.
How to Use Cashew Milk:
- Make a creamy vegan “cheese” sauce
- Add it to your smoothies or use it to make a creamy banana nice cream
- Use it as a coffee creamer replacement
Homemade Cashew Milk Recipe
The best part about homemade cashew milk? It’s simple to make (with just two ingredients needed), one of the creamiest non-dairy milks, and requires no straining! All you need to do is toss your ingredients into a blender and serve it up.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 4 cups water
- ½ – 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional flavor add-ins:
- 1 medjool date, pitted (or 1 tbsp sweetener of choice)
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
Directions:
Step #1: Cover raw cashew nuts with water and soak for 4 hours minimum, or overnight.
Step #2: Drain the cashew nuts and discard any liquid. Rinse well.
Step #3: Add all of the above ingredients, including any flavor add-ins, to a high-speed blender. Once the lid is secure, blend on medium-high until your mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste test and adjust sweetness or flavorings as needed.
Step #4: Pour mixture into a large pitcher or sealable glass jar and store in the fridge.
Step #6: Drink immediately or store in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Note: No straining is necessary with this non-dairy nut milk. But if you’d like a thinner consistency, you may choose to strain your cashew milk.
Macadamia Milk
This indulgent milk alternative is a newer dairy-free find but based on its sweet, creamy taste, we’re willing to bet macadamia nut milk is here to stay. It tastes delicious in morning lattes, smoothies, baked goods, and really as a substitute for any dairy recipe!
Consistency & Flavor: This non-dairy milk is smooth, rich, and slightly sweet yet nutty. It has an indulgent, almost silky taste that elevates the richness of any dish.
Nutritional Benefits: Macadamia milk contains about a third of the calories in cow’s milk, making it a weight loss-friendly option. While it’s low in carbs, it contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Good to know: Although it’s rich and creamy, macadamia milk’s flavor isn’t overpowering, making it a great substitute for most dairy dishes.
Cons: Macadamia nuts are expensive, hence the higher price point on this creamy plant milk. While it may not be an affordable everyday option, it’s a yummy treat when you’re feeling like a splurge!
Taste: Mild, slightly sweet & slightly nutty.
Works best with: Coffees or lattes, smoothies, meal prep breakfasts like overnight oats
How to use Macadamia Milk:
- Treat yourself to a yummy morning latte.
- Use it as a creamy dairy substitute for whole milk or cream in recipes.
- Make a chia pudding or warming bowl of oats with macadamia milk as the base.
Homemade Macadamia Milk Recipe
Have you ever wandered past macadamia milk in the grocery aisle and wondered if this luxurious nut milk is worth the splurge? When it comes to taste and price tag, we’ve got one better for you: homemade macadamia milk. It’s every bit as tasty (even better, in our opinion) and comes without additives or the expensive price tag.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw macadamia nuts
- 4 cups water
- ½ – 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional flavor add-ins:
- 1 medjool date, pitted (or 1 tbsp sweetener of choice)
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
Directions:
Step #1: Cover macadamia nuts with water and soak for 2-4 hours.
Step #2: Drain and rinse your macadamia nuts, discarding the soaking liquid.
Step #3: Add all of the above ingredients, including any flavor add-ins, to a high-speed blender. Once the lid is secure, blend on medium-high until your mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste test and adjust sweetness or flavorings as needed.
Step #4: Pour mixture through a mesh strainer or nut milk bag and into a large pitcher or sealable glass jar to separate the macadamia nut pulp. While this step is not necessary, it ensures a creamier non-dairy milk blend.
Step #5: Store the macadamia milk in an airtight jar in the fridge.
Step #6: Drink immediately or store in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Hazelnut Milk
Coffee and chocolate lovers, this one is for you. Hazelnut Milk has the perfect balance of sweet and creamy and tastes decadently delicious on its own.
Consistency & Flavor: Creamy, smooth, and slightly nutty with a hazelnut flavor
Nutritional Benefits: Rich in B vitamins such as B1, B2, and B6, full of Vitamin E and essential fatty acids. Plus it’s low in calories!
Good to know: This dairy milk alternative has a hazelnutty taste that tastes best in sweeter recipes or foods.
Cons: Hazelnut Milk is lower in protein, rather expensive, and not as widely available in stores and restaurants.
Works best with: Anything coffee or chocolate flavored, or anything sweet!
How to use Hazelnut Milk:
- Make a chocolate hazelnut milk by adding cacao and an optional hint of sweetener to your hazelnut milk base.
- Add it to your coffee or morning latte.
- Make chocolate hazelnut overnight oats or chia pudding.
Homemade Hazelnut Milk
While Hazelnut milk may sound indulgent, this DIY hazelnut milk recipe is as simple as it gets. Made with just two main ingredients plus any flavor add-ins, blend up a delicious batch and indulge away.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 – 2 cups raw hazelnuts
- 4 cups water
- ½ -1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional flavor add-ins:
- 1-2 medjool dates, pitted (or 1-2 tbsp sweetener of choice)
- 1-2 tbsp unsweetened cacao or cocoa powder
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
Directions:
Step #1: Cover hazelnuts with water and soak overnight (or at least 12 hours) in a bowl.
Step #2: Drain and rinse your hazelnuts, discarding the soaking water.
Step #3: Add all of the above ingredients, including any flavor add-ins, to a high-speed blender. Once the lid is secure, blend on medium-high until your mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste test and adjust sweetness or flavorings as needed.
Step #4: Pour mixture through a mesh strainer or nut milk bag and into a large pitcher or sealable glass jar, separating the hazelnut milk from the hazelnut pulp.
Step #5: Store the hazelnut milk in an airtight jar, discarding the pulp or saving for future recipes.
Step #6: Drink immediately or store in the fridge for 3-5 days.
The Bottom Line
With so many dairy-free milk options, you’ll never have to feel like you’re missing out on all the dairy-filled goodness! Benefit your health without sacrificing taste with these yummy dairy-free alternatives. Make it fun by testing each one of these out to see which one you like best! You may be surprised to find a few favorites that supercharge your already healthy eating diet.
