6 Best Plant-Based Milks (Non-Dairy) for Coffee and Latte Art – Perfect for Vegans

Plant milk is a very suitable option for those who have problems with lactose (natural milk sugar) or casein (one of the proteins in milk) and their body reacts to them.

Milk changes the mouth feel of the coffee and makes its bitterness more pleasant.

For decades, milk has been used to create some of the most popular coffee drinks, from flat white and cappuccinos to macchiatos and lattes.

Some people can’t drink coffee without milk, and they think that coffee is not complete without milk.

Today, people are more looking for plant-based milk, including soy, almond, coconut and oat milk.

The sale of this milk has grown significantly year after year and there is no sign of this growth slowing down. Of course, the important point is that these milks are strongly related to the coffee industry because a significant amount of these vegetable milks are used in coffee shops.

vegan latte art

How To Do Latte Art with Milk Alternatives [Soy, Almond, Oat, and More]

Can you make latte art with non-dairy milk?

Next, we are going to introduce the best plant based milk for coffee:

Oat milk was introduced across Starbucks stores in the United States, with the brand even claiming that the expansion in demand for plant-based milk was the most significant change in consumption at their locations.

What is the best Plant milk for coffee?

milk plant; It has been used for years as a substitute for animal milk. There are milks obtained from various foods. These Plant milk, which have gained increasing popularity in recent years, have different benefits for the body.

From almond milk to oat milk, from soy milk to coconut milk. Let’s examine the benefits of these plant milks one by one…

almond milk

Almond milk is one of the best plant milk for coffee. Almond milk is the most widely used milk among plant milks and nuts. Almond milk is darker in color compared to cow’s milk. Almond milk does not contain lactose and is very rich in antioxidants and minerals such as potassium and calcium.

1 glass of almond milk provides 30% of the daily calcium requirement and 125% of the daily vitamin E requirement.

Almond milk has a lower protein content than soy milk, so it does not have steam or foam.

It also has a watery consistency that creates a thinner layer than the microfoam.

Almond milk loses its micro-foam very quickly, so you should pour it as soon as possible.

Once evaporated, almond milk has a contrasting texture with lots of surface bubbles. Be sure to bend and rotate the pitcher to make its texture smoother.

Almond milk’s watery texture means it flows very quickly. Pour slowly for more control over the latte art.

• Perfect for latte art
• Comfortable to use
• A lot of sweetness
• Resistant to heat

Cons of almond milk

• It is not considered as a good source of protein.
• It may contain carrageenan, which can cause digestive problems in some people.
• There are environmental concerns about the amount of water used for almond cultivation.

How to prepare almond milk at home?

coconut milk

One of the most popular sources of plant-based milk is coconut milk, which contains beneficial fatty acids and is gluten-free. This milk, which has cooking properties, is also one of the first choices of vegetarians. This type of milk is the best non dairy milk in coffee. Coconut milk, which accelerates metabolism, also has antibacterial properties and is obtained by grating and squeezing the pulp of fresh coconuts.

Coconut milk is made with the white flesh of the coconut. You can use coconut milk in your desserts and coffees by extracting juice and white meat. Coconut milk is one of the most popular types of milk for serving coffee.

• Best option for latte art
• Resistant to heat
• A lot of sweetness

Disadvantages of coconut milk

• It is not considered as a good source of protein.
• It may contain carrageenan, which can cause digestive problems in some people.

oat milk

Contains more protein than almond milk and less carbohydrate than rice milk.

It is less allergenic compared to alternatives such as almond or soy milk. It strengthens the bone structure and is rich in B-group vitamins.

Oat milk contains high amounts of beta-glucan. By reducing LDL, beta-glucan reduces the risk of coronary heart failure, strengthens the immune system, and also has the effect of lowering blood sugar with the feature of lowering the glycemic index.

Pouring harder and faster with the oat milk will make the latte art more beautiful and clean.

Let the oat milk rest for about 30 to 45 seconds before adding it. This leads to a more even milk texture.

• Natural and mild taste
• Creamy texture
• Resistant to temperature
• It may overpower the espresso flavor a bit
• It is more difficult to foam

soya milk

Soy milk is one of the best vegetable milk for coffee. The most well-known milk plant; Soya milk is the best alternative to cow milk in terms of protein and calcium. It is rich in iron and plant estrogen. It has more protein than other plant-based milks. Unlike animal milk, it contains minimal saturated fat and is cholesterol-free.

Soya milk made with soybeans is also preferred by vegetarians and people with lactose intolerance. Soya milk is often used in coffees and smoothies due to its consistency and intense taste.

Soya milk is the most available type of vegetable milk on the market. It is usually served with coffee, as it foams due to heat.

Microfoam in soy milk is very stable, which means you have more time to pour your latte art.

• Convenience of use
• A good option for new baristas
• A large amount of additives
• Strong artificial taste

Disadvantages of soy milk

• Soybean is an allergenic substance and some adults and children are allergic to it.
• Most soybeans produced come from genetically modified plants, which is a concern for some people.

sesame milk

Sesame milk is one of the healthiest vegetable milks. Its concentration is high and has a creamy form. It is rich in fatty acids that are beneficial for the heart. Its calcium is up to three times that of animal milk. Sesame contains large amounts of calcium and magnesium. The presence of magnesium helps to absorb calcium a lot.

Cashew milk

Among the types of vegetable and nut milk, cashew milk is a different option. This delicious milk is lower in calories than all other nut milks. Cashew milk is rich in antioxidants, vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, copper, protein and fiber.

Like sesame milk, this milk has a lot of iron and is useful for preventing or treating anemia.

The presence of potassium and magnesium in cashew milk helps to reduce blood pressure and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Coffee-mate or non-dairy milk powder

If we take a look at the ingredients of Coffee Mate, we will understand that structurally this powder is very similar to other plant milks.

• Water
• corn syrup
• Hydrogenated soybeans
• Cottonseed oil
• Sodium caseinate
• Potassium phosphate
• Carignan
• Starch juice
• Hydrogenated palm kernel oil
• Acidity regulator
• eatable color
• Sugar

Coffee Mate is much more accessible than other herbal milks for coffee and also works much better for making cappuccinos and lattes due to the processing done on it.

cow’s milk or plant milks; Which one is better for your health?

Whole cow’s milk has the highest amount of fat among all kinds of milk. The amount of energy and nutrients in a glass of milk are:

• 150 calories of energy
• 12 grams of carbohydrates in the form of lactose (lactose is milk sugar)
• 8 grams of fat
• 8 grams of protein
• The benefits of cow’s milk
• It can provide the necessary proteins, calories, vitamins and minerals needed by the body.
• Lactose-free varieties are available for people who are lactose intolerant.
• It is sold in abundance in grocery stores and is easily accessible.

Disadvantages of cow milk

• Whole milk is high in calories and fat.
• Many people are lactose intolerant and experience digestive problems after consuming milk.
• Some people do not consider modern animal husbandry to be morally appropriate.

Cow milk and rice milk have higher calories than other milks. Almond milk, rice milk and coconut milk contain less protein compared to cow’s milk and soy milk and therefore may not be suitable for some people, especially children.

Conclusion

If you plan to follow a dairy-free diet due to lactose intolerance or prefer to manage a vegetarian diet in advance, these plant-based milks are perfect for you.

Plant-based milks are one of the hottest topics lately. Plant-based, non-animal milk is usually the number one choice for vegetarians and lactose-intolerant people. Apart from these, it can be preferred because of its taste and nutritional value compared to animal milk.

Plant milk, which is usually obtained from nuts, can be easily found in the markets and you can also easily prepare it at home.

Pouring latte art with dairy milk can be difficult. This is because their unique chemical composition affects the stability of the microfoam after evaporation.

Coconut milk has no stabilizer in it and is thicker, so it sits on top of your espresso. The same is true of soya.

milks for coffee

Milks that are commonly used for coffee include whole milk, skim milk, almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, and soy milk.

what milk alternative is best for coffee

The best milk alternative for coffee is oat milk. Oat milk is naturally creamy and has a mild, sweet flavor that pairs well with coffee. It is also high in fiber and low in calories, making it a healthier choice than cow’s milk. Additionally, oat milk is lactose-free, making it a great option for those who are lactose intolerant.

best vegan milk for frothing

The best vegan milk for frothing is oat milk. Oat milk is naturally creamy and has a high fat content, making it ideal for creating a thick, creamy foam. It also has a mild, sweet flavor that pairs well with coffee. Other vegan milks such as almond, coconut, and soy milk can also be used for frothing, but oat milk is the best choice for a creamy, frothy foam.

FAQ

What is the best vegan milk for making latte at home?

Coconut milk, non-dairy almond milk and oat milk are good options for preparing latte. Soy milk is also suitable for preparing a latte art. All 4 types of milk are perfect for frothing latte art.

what is the healthiest plant milk

The healthiest plant milk is almond milk. Almond milk is low in calories, fat, and sugar, and is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin E. It is also high in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation.

best plant milk for cappuccino

Oat milk is the best plant milk for cappuccinos. It has a creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the espresso and foam. It also foams well and can be used to make latte art. Soy milk and almond milk are also good options for cappuccinos.

best non dairy milk for flat white

The best non-dairy milk for a flat white is oat milk. Oat milk is creamy and has a natural sweetness that pairs well with coffee. It is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthier alternative to dairy milk. Additionally, oat milk is lactose-free and vegan-friendly, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.

best coffee for lactose intolerant

For those who are lactose intolerant, the best coffee is a dairy-free alternative, such as almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, or soy milk. These dairy-free alternatives are lactose-free and provide a creamy, delicious flavor to coffee. Additionally, you can also try adding a non-dairy creamer, such as a nut-based creamer, to your coffee for a creamy, delicious flavor.