For many coffee lovers, dairy milk is no longer the go-to. The rise of non-dairy alternatives has sparked a delicious debate: which non-dairy milk pairs best with coffee? Two of the most popular contenders are oat milk and almond milk, each bringing unique qualities to the table. Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking to switch things up, understanding how these two non-dairy options stack up can help you make the perfect cup.
Oat Milk: Creamy, Smooth, and Sweet
Taste and Texture
Oat milk has surged in popularity, particularly among coffee aficionados. Its naturally sweet and creamy texture makes it a favorite for lattes, cappuccinos, and other espresso-based drinks. Oat milk is thick and rich, often mimicking the texture of whole milk, which means it blends well with coffee without separating or curdling. This smoothness also gives it the ability to foam up nicely, creating a luxurious froth that many non-dairy milks struggle to achieve.
The subtle sweetness of oat milk complements the bitterness of coffee, adding a slightly nutty, oaty flavor that enhances, rather than overpowers, your brew. It’s an ideal choice for anyone who enjoys creamier coffee drinks or who wants their coffee to have a touch of natural sweetness without adding sugar.
Nutritional Profile
From a nutritional standpoint, oat milk is often fortified with vitamins like B12 and D, making it a good option for those looking to supplement their diet. While it tends to have more carbohydrates than almond milk, the trade-off is its creamy texture and richer mouthfeel. For those keeping an eye on calories or carbs, there are also low-calorie and low-sugar versions of oat milk available.
How It Performs in Coffee
One of the reasons oat milk shines in coffee is its ability to maintain its structure when heated. Unlike some other non-dairy options, oat milk doesn’t curdle easily when exposed to high temperatures, making it perfect for steaming and frothing. This makes oat milk a barista favorite, and many coffee shops now offer oat milk as a default non-dairy option for lattes and flat whites.
Even at home, using oat milk with your Nespresso machine guarantees a smooth, velvety result every time. Whether you’re whipping up an iced coffee or a hot latte, Nespresso pods combined with oat milk create a dreamy blend of coffee and creaminess.
Almond Milk: Light, Nutty, and Versatile
Taste and Texture
Almond milk has long been a staple in the non-dairy world, appreciated for its light texture and subtle, nutty flavor. Compared to oat milk, almond milk is thinner and lighter, which may appeal to those who prefer their coffee less creamy. However, almond milk can sometimes struggle to blend as seamlessly with coffee, occasionally leading to separation, particularly in hotter drinks.
That said, almond milk has a unique charm. Its nutty flavor can complement certain coffee blends, particularly those with chocolate or caramel notes, adding depth without overwhelming the coffee’s natural taste.
Nutritional Profile
Almond milk is often favored by those looking for a lower-calorie or lower-carb alternative. It is generally lower in sugar and calories compared to oat milk, making it a popular choice for health-conscious coffee drinkers. Like oat milk, almond milk is often fortified with vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin E, and sometimes B12.
If you’re using almond milk with coffee daily and watching your intake, almond milk may offer a lighter, less calorie-dense option. However, be aware that sweetened almond milk varieties can add more sugar than you might expect.
How It Performs in Coffee
Almond milk’s performance in coffee is where it tends to divide opinions. Due to its lower fat content, almond milk doesn’t froth as well as oat milk, making it less ideal for those who love a foamy latte or cappuccino. When steamed or heated, almond milk can sometimes separate, leaving an uneven texture in your cup. This can be avoided by using barista-style almond milk, which is formulated to withstand higher temperatures and create a more consistent foam.
When it comes to iced coffee, almond milk shines. The thinner texture blends beautifully with cold coffee drinks, making it an excellent choice for cold brews or iced lattes. For Nespresso users, pairing almond milk with their iced coffee pods delivers a refreshing and light beverage with just the right hint of nuttiness.
Which Milk to Choose for Your Coffee?
So, how do you choose between oat milk and almond milk for your coffee? It all comes down to your personal preference and what kind of coffee experience you’re after.
- Choose Oat Milk If: You prefer a creamier, richer texture in your coffee. Oat milk is your best bet if you like lattes, cappuccinos, and frothy drinks. Its ability to mimic dairy milk in texture and sweetness makes it a favorite for creating indulgent coffee drinks. Plus, it holds up well under heat, making it versatile for both hot and cold beverages.
- Choose Almond Milk If: You prefer a lighter, nutty flavor that doesn’t overpower the coffee. Almond milk is great for those looking for a lower-calorie option and is ideal for iced coffee drinks. Its subtle nutty notes complement lighter coffee roasts and sweet, dessert-flavored coffees.
