Ahh, non-dairy milk. Quite possibly one of the most random, yet most trendy things of the past two years or so. I am not vegan or lactose-intolerant. However, I am one of those people who “avoid dairy” for various reasons- meaning I never buy dairy products and always get non-dairy milk in my coffee, but at the same time I’m not going to say no to a slice of pizza. You get what I mean.
In today’s world, it seems like most people are “avoiding dairy.” That’s why most restaurants and cafes have the option for non-dairy milk and plant-based options. It used to be that soy and almond milk were the only non-dairy options in the grocery store, but now there’s a whole section dedicated to it. So, how are you supposed to know which non-dairy milk is the best?
If you’re curious about the plethora of non-dairy milk the world has to offer, check out some of my favorites:
1Oat Milk
Yes, I know it’s basic, but oat milk is incredible. If you haven’t tried oat milk, you haven’t lived. Kidding, but oat milk seriously takes the cake when it comes to non-dairy milk. It’s creamy, smooth, and naturally sweet. If a coffee shop offers oat milk, it’s my first choice without a doubt.
2Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is a non-dairy milk classic, and even though I used to hate it, coconut milk is now one of my favorites. Coconut milk is typically naturally sweet and tastes amazing in coffee. It does tend to have a quite powerful coconut taste, so if that’s not your favorite flavor, it might not be the non-dairy milk for you.
3Macadamia Milk
New non-dairy milk that’s harder to find, but completely worth the high price. Coffee places don’t typically offer macadamia milk, but it tastes incredible in matcha lattes. The best macadamia milk brand for those who want to try it at home is without a doubt Milkadamia.
4Soy Milk
Soy milk used to be my go-to non-dairy milk option before I realized the beauty that is oat milk, but soy milk is still a solid option. Coffee chains like Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts typically only carry almond and soy milk, and between the two, I always choose soy milk. It’s quite flavorless and not very sweet, so it’s an excellent basic to add to coffee.
5Pea Milk
Sounds weird, but it tastes pretty good. The brand Ripple started the pea milk craze with their protein-rich non-dairy milk made from peas. It’s a non-dairy option for the more health-conscious, as it also has a good source of vitamins and minerals as well.
6Banana Milk
I’m still wondering how this one is made. The taste is reminiscent of bananas and cinnamon, making for a deliciously sweet choice. Although the taste of banana milk is not for everyone, it’s an excellent option for smoothies and baked goods.
7Almond Milk
Quite possibly, the non-dairy milk classic. Almond milk has been around since non-dairy milk was first created, and has remained the first choice for many, even with all the other options. Almond milk is similar to coconut milk in that it definitely gives coffee a particular taste, but is great for other recipes that involve milk, such as creamy pasta and baked goods.
