Maybe you’re sensitive to lactose (a naturally occurring carbohydrate found in milk). Or maybe you wish to avoid dairy milk for other personal reasons. The good news is there are many milk substitutes out there you can enjoy, from oat milk to almond milk and beyond.
In this guide, we discuss what you should consider when choosing a milk substitute as an ingredient in your favorite recipes. We also share our top milk substitutes, so you can make the best choice for you.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A MILK SUBSTITUTE FOR COOKING
Instead of being produced from cows or goats, plant-based milk products are made from oats, almonds, coconuts, cashews, hemp and soy, just to name a few. These milk substitutes result in the same creamy texture we know and love.
Finding the right one for cooking or baking isn’t as simple as enjoying how the milk tastes. You have to consider how it’ll blend with your other ingredients and how it will contribute to the flavor of your finished dish.
Flavor Profile
Plant-based milks have unique flavor profiles, which can alter the flavor of a recipe. For example, soy milk leans toward a neutral flavor profile making it versatile for all recipes.
But then you have something like oat milk. Since oat milk has a sweet flavor profile on its own, it would be a great option for making dessert recipes.
Texture and Consistency
When it comes to cooking and baking, flavor isn’t all that counts. The consistency of the milk needs to be factored into the mix, too.
Soy milk has a similar consistency to dairy milk. However, other milk options might be thinner, such as hemp milk, or thicker, such as cashew milk. This can impact a recipe, so you’ll need to choose the one that fits best.
Allergies and Dietary Restrictions
Milk made from soy or nuts, such as soy milk or almond milk, can be especially problematic for those with allergies. As you shop, be careful to read all ingredient labels before purchasing any milk alternatives.
If you want to avoid common allergens, reach for options such as oat milk, coconut milk or hemp milk. These milk alternatives are typically free of nuts and soy, just make sure to always check the label.
The Effects of Heat
Heat is a common denominator when cooking or baking. And some dairy milk alternatives perform better when introduced to heat than others.
For example, almond milk tends to separate when added to hot liquids. However, soy milk can be used at high temperatures without curdling or separating.
Our Favorite Dairy-Free Milk Substitutes for Cooking
Ready to find the perfect dairy-free milk substitute? Let’s dive into some of our favorites. But first, here’s a quick chart to help you make sense of it all.
| Dairy Milk Substitute | What Is It Best For? |
| Oat Milk | Cooking or baking dishes or desserts with a sweeter flavor profile |
| Almond Milk | Cooking or baking any dish or dessert Use caution when adding to hot liquids |
| Coconut Milk | Cooking or baking sweet dishes or desserts As a liquid for sweet or tropical smoothies or beverages |
| Cashew Milk | Cooking or baking any dish or dessert |
| Hemp Milk | Cooking or baking any dish or dessert |
| Soy Milk | Cooking or baking any dish or dessert Performs well in hot liquids such as coffee or sauces |
Oat Milk
Derived from nutritious oats, this milk has a similar consistency to dairy milk, which means you don’t have to alter a recipe to compensate for it. Oat milk is sweet, which makes it a great option for baking cookies, pastries and similar desserts.
Almond Milk
This is one of the most popular types of milk available. Almond milk is creamy, nutty and has a similar texture to dairy milk with an almond flavor.
You can use almond milk to cook or bake pretty much anything you’d use dairy milk for, without adding or increasing other ingredients to compensate for consistency or taste.
Coconut Milk
This one has a strong, sweet flavor and can be thick and creamy. Of course, if you need to use coconut milk in a recipe that doesn’t call for added sweetness, then definitely opt for unsweetened coconut milk.
Cashew Milk
Consider cashew milk as a sibling to almond milk. Like almond milk, it’s creamy with a nutty flavor profile. Cashew milk can be used in a wide range of recipes, from sweet treats to savory meals.
Hemp Milk
For those who have nut allergies and lactose intolerance, hemp milk can be a great option. It’s creamy and features a unique earthy and nutty flavor.
Soy Milk
This is perhaps the most common dairy milk alternative. Soy milk has very little flavor on its own, and the texture is a lot like cow’s milk. You can use soy milk in basically any recipe that calls for dairy milk.
How to Use Milk Substitutes in Cooking
Which Milk Is Best for Baking?
Milk is super important when baking. For example, it adds sweetness to a dish while also hydrating the dry ingredients.
Whether you’re baking sweet treats or bread, we recommend starting with soy milk. Its neutral taste and texture resemble dairy milk and complement virtually any recipe.
If you have a soy allergy, you can also opt for almond milk or cashew milk. Wanna try it out? Check out this recipe for Dairy-Free Walnut and Zucchini Bread, which uses delicious cashew milk.
Which Milk Is Best for Cooking?
The best milk for cooking really depends on the flavor you’re looking for. For example, if you’re cooking a savory dish, you can try soy milk or hemp milk.
If you’re cooking a sweeter dish, try alternatives such as oat milk. This option lends a sweet flavor to everything from soups to curries and beyond.
Want some recipes to try? We love this savory Vegan Gumbo, which uses soy milk. Or, try these deliciously sweet Dairy-Free Sweet Spinach Pancakes, featuring oat milk.
Dairy Milk Substitutes for Coffee and Tea
Coffee or tea connoisseur? If so, you’ll want to choose your dairy milk alternative carefully. For a similar texture to traditional creamer, we recommend trying oat milk or soy milk. When it comes to hot coffee, you may want to avoid almond milk as it may separate.
Dairy Milk Substitutes for Smoothies and Shakes
Approach smoothies and shakes similarly to how you’d approach other drinks. What are you in the mood for? If you want something that will add some sweetness, go with almond milk or oat milk. You can also try a more mild option like soy milk or hemp milk.
Want to enjoy a more tropical smoothie? Opt for the strong flavor of coconut milk. You really can’t go wrong here!
Try this Chocolate Protein Shake recipe if you’re looking for a sweet treat. Or, whip up any of these smoothie recipes for something cold and creamy.
Looking for substitutes for heavy cream? Check out this guide too!
Who Needs Milk? Pacific Foods Has Your Dairy-Free Alternatives
If you choose to avoid dairy milk, you don’t have to miss out on great-tasting meals. Simply purchase a plant-based alternative. Pacific Foods has you covered with our variety of dairy-free milk options. Shop our products today to find your next favorite!
