What Does Almond Milk Taste Like? A Detailed Answer

Plant-based milk has been on the rise, and the options are not just limited to any one ingredient. Among dairy allergic folks, plant-based milk is a fixture of the conscious-eating movement. Supermarket shelves are lined with milks ranging from almond to oat, coconut to rice, cashew, quinoa, and pea. Among the many delicious options out there, today, we are exclusively going to understand almond milk and its taste.

If you haven’t tried almond milk yet, then you may assume that this milk may contain an overwhelming taste of almonds. But hold on, friends, we are here to tell you that this is not true. Almond milk, with its lovely milky white color, has a lightly sweet and nutty taste and a creamy texture. In fact, it tastes a lot more like dairy milk.

The origin of almond milk is a little obscure, but some people claim it was found in Medieval Europe. While some of you may think that almond milk was used as an alternative to cow’s milk as a reason for animal welfare or environmental concerns. Today a quarter of the population of Europe and the U.S. prefer consuming almond milk over cow’s milk. 

Now let’s move on to find out how almond milk is derived, what it tastes like, its nutritional profile, and its uses.

What Is Almond Milk?

Almond milk is a popular plant-based milk that is derived from filtered ground almonds and water. It is a natural dairy-free and lactose-free alternative to cow’s milk. 

Almond milk is a highly nourishing milk that turns out to be a versatile ingredient because of its rich texture and flavor. While we mainly use almond milk in lattes and desserts, it can appear in a vast array of recipes, ranging from sweet to savory.

Today, almond milk is readily available, thanks to premade packs! But making almond milk at home is a fairly easy process. Let’s find out more about this in the sections below.

What Does Almond Milk Taste Like?

Almond milk is a one-stop solution for vegans, as well as people with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance. So, if cow milk isn’t the option for you, almond milk can provide a lot of added benefits to your diet. However, if you suffer from a tree nuts allergy, you should avoid it. Before we get there, let’s take a look at its taste profile.

As mentioned before, almond milk is derived from ground almonds and water, and you may expect to experience a similar taste profile to chewing raw almonds. On the contrary, plain almond milk is mildly sweet-tasting milk having a nutty undertone. When consumed, it also provides a creaminess due to its rich texture.

But that’s not all. Almond milk is also available in sweetened varieties. The common flavor notes of such varieties include cinnamon, vanilla, chocolate, and honey. These flavors highly depend on what type of sweetened almond milk you end up drinking.

These flavors don’t sound bad, right?

Does Almond Milk Taste Nice?

Almond milk is available in two varieties: sweetened and unsweetened varieties. As compared to regular milk, even the unsweetened variety is noticeably sweet and has a nutty undertone to it. Thus, the natural sweetness of almond milk makes it a delicious option for creating shakes, lattes, and making a bowl of cereal. No doubt, almond milk has become a more popular choice than ever.

Does Almond Milk Taste Like Water?

Almond milk has a subtle flavor that goes very well with many recipes. It comes in two varieties and has many flavors. Essentially, unsweetened almond milk has a creamy, mildly sweet, and nutty undertone to it. But almond milk clearly doesn’t taste like water. 

Does Almond Milk Taste Good In Coffee?

When opting for plant-based milk options for your coffee, keep in mind it can be a hit or a miss. This factor depends on the type of coffee roast paired with a particular milk. But thanks to the creamy texture and rich taste profile of almond milk, it has become a popular choice among baristas.  

Almond milk in iced coffees turns out to be a sweet and delicious drink. However, you may not experience a pleasant taste if the coffee beans used are acidic in nature. On the other hand, when brewed properly in hot coffees, the nuttiness of almond milk can add an extra touch of complexity to coffee drinks. 

Additionally, there are two varieties of almond milk available in the market, namely sweetened and unsweetened almond milk. You can take benefit from both depending on your choice of flavor profiles. 

Does Almond Milk Taste Like Normal Milk?

To answer the question of whether almond milk tastes like normal milk, we will have to consider two factors. Firstly, the source it comes from. Secondly, its taste profile. By normal milk, we refer to dairy milk generally derived from cows. On the other hand, almond milk is the extracted milk of ground almonds combined with water. 

That differentiation points out a major takeaway that dairy and non-dairy products are certainly going to have different tastes. While normal milk has a mildly sweet taste like almond milk, the latter also comes with a hint of nuttiness. Additionally, almond milk comes in sweetened varieties that are flavored.

Is Almond Milk Sweeter Than Regular Milk?

When making smoothies, lattes, or adding milk to cereals, it’s normal to wonder about the sweetness of milk to adjust its taste to your palette. But even if you are a sweet tooth, excessive amounts of sugar will not benefit you. So, the good news for milk lovers is that regular dairy milk has no added sugar. However, many types of non-dairy milk, like almond milk, contain added sugar. Thus, this answers your question that almond milk is indeed sweeter than regular milk.

What Does Unsweetened Almond Milk Taste Like?

When it comes to almond milk, sweetened almond milk is mostly preferred because of its added sugar and flavors. However, unsweetened almond milk is an acquired taste. It is a healthier option than sweetened almond milk because it has fewer calories and sugar. In comparison to sweetened almond milk, unsweetened almond milk comes with a slightly nutty taste profile.

What Does Almond Milk Taste Like When It Goes Bad?

Everyone knows that all commercial products come with best-by dates and are often a suggestion. But when it comes to almond milk, the quality of milk that has goes bad is a lot harder to detect in comparison to regular spoiled milk. This is especially true for those who may be new to drinking or cooking with almond milk.

Almond milk flavors can differ between brands. It can be hard to pinpoint when something has gone off for your liking if you’re not an almond milk pro. The true test of checking whether almond milk has gone bad depends on how it looks and tastes. Once it gets thick, clumps a little, smells off, and tastes sour, overly bitter, or acrid; it’s time to toss it.

Does Almond Milk Taste Better Than Cow Milk?

For many, milk is a major staple in our diets, and it’s hard to imagine cutting it out completely. But the good news is that people who are trying to cut back on dairy products due to personal or digestive reasons don’t have to miss out on milk. Thanks to the availability of a growing variety of non-dairy milk. 

But does almond milk taste better than cow’s milk? The answer to it is subjective to one’s liking. Both kinds of milk majorly differ in taste due to the sweetness they provide. You may prefer almond milk over cow’s milk due to the natural and added sugar content it brings along. On the other hand, you may also enjoy its nuttiness. But people tend to enjoy almond milk because of the varied flavors it offers.

Does Almond Milk Taste Better Than Soy Milk?

The plant-based milk alternatives market is blowing up and continuing to multiply with many options to choose from. Two of those include soy milk and almond milk. But which is healthier and tastier?

While soy milk tops the charts for its protein content in comparison to almond milk. On the taste-o-meter, almond milk ranks a little higher. Both almond and soy milk come in plain, vanilla, and chocolate, as well as unsweetened and sweetened varieties. However, almond milk users report it tastes sweet and nutty. Whereas soy milk tends to taste a little sour if unsweetened. But sweetened or flavored soy milk manages to mask this sourness.

Top 5 Almond Milk Brands And Their Taste?

Maybe you’re intolerant to dairy products or just looking for a lighter way to enjoy milk; there can be many reasons to drink almond milk. But with so many milk alternatives and their varieties available in the market, it’s natural to get confused about which one to pick. And this decision entirely depends on its usage, taste profile, and calorie content. So, I have rounded up the list of some of the best almond milk brands to make your shopping experience easy.

1. Califia Farms

Almond milk may contain extra sugar, which makes for a tricky situation for those who can’t afford its intake. So, you will want to stick to unsweetened almond milk. That’s where Califia Farms comes in.  

Although added sugar varieties are available for other sugar-preferring customers, their unsweetened almond milk comes with 0 grams of sugar per serving. This brand contains only 35 calories per serving and is a good source of calcium.  

2. Malk’s Almond Milk

Many brands offer delectable flavored milk, but Malk’s offers almond milk which is not only flavorful but also healthy. Malk’s unsweetened almond milk contains only filtered water, almond butter, Himalayan pink salt, and no added fillers. It is a lot like the almond milk you may make at home, having a mild sweetness and a hint of nuttiness.

Additionally, if you love experiencing rich vanilla flavors over your taste buds, then Malk’s Vanilla Almond Milk can be the ideal one for you. 

3. Blue Diamond

Blue Diamond is the leading U.S. almond milk brand that not only comes with a taste guarantee but is rich in excellent vitamins and minerals. Blue Diamond’s Almond Breeze tastes like almonds, in fact, the brand offers flavors ranging from chocolate to vanilla to honey. In comparison to other brands, it is a tad bit sweeter. 

4. Elmhurst Almond Milk

Elmhurst is another brand that tops our chart as it offers thick and flavorful almond milk despite having only two ingredients. It has a balanced flavor with a creaminess comparable to cow’s milk.

Elmhurst Almond milk is simple, delicious, healthy, and guilt-free! 

5. Three Trees 

Three Trees organic almond milk is one of the best brands for many reasons. It is a brand that is committed to sustainability and has a simplified ingredient list. It has a creamy and nutty flavor. The almond milk comes in original, vanilla, pistachio, and black sesame flavors. 

What Are The Best Ways Of Using Almond Milk?

You may think almond milk is a great way to start your morning by adding it to your coffee, bowl of cereals, or just chugging it on its own. However, the deliciousness of almond milk can be used in many more ways.

Whether you’re looking for a boost of vitamins A and D or finding a solution for a family member whose lactose intolerant, almond milk can be your new best friend. Check out the following tips to expand your culinary horizon and incorporate almond milk beyond the breakfast table. 

1. Baked Goods 

There are plenty of baked goods, such as pancakes, French toast, cookies, etc., that call for dairy in their ingredient list. Luckily, dairy alternatives like almond milk can make for a great substitute. While they may not alter the taste of your recipe, I personally feel they could elevate certain recipes with a hint of nuttiness. It also makes for healthier options.

2. Ice cream

Almond milk as a substitute for dairy in ice creams can prove to be a great result. With its rich and creamy texture, it offers a smooth and luscious consistency to ice creams. It also brings along its natural sweetness. 

3. Soups

Many comfort foods such as soups, hearty crock pot meals, and casseroles call for heavy cream as a base. But that might leave you calculating the calories. In such a case, almond milk can come to the rescue by providing fewer calories and a well-rounded creamy taste.

4. Smoothies 

Almond milk also makes for a great ingredient in smoothies. It helps the smoothies blend well and helps to achieve a creamy texture. Most almond milk varieties have a neutral flavor that turns out to taste delicious with other ingredients.

How To Check If Almond Milk Has Gone Bad?

Dairy products surely have a limited shelf-life, but it would be wrong to assume that non-dairy milk, like almond milk, can last in the fridge for an exponentially longer period of time. This is why it is essential to understand the shelf life of almond milk and the best way to store it. 

1. Smell – One of the most telltale signs of any food item is its smell, and that also stands true for almond milk. Once spoiled, almond milk loses the nutty and fresh smell it’s known for.

Take a good sniff at your milk. If it smells sour, pungent, or any different from how almond milk should smell, then it’s time for it to be removed. 

2. Taste – What if there is nothing off about the smell? How will you make sure of the freshness of almond milk? Take a small sip of your milk. If it turns out to be sour or bitter in taste, it means the milk has gone bad.

3. Color – One of the easiest indicators of a spoiled food item is its color. So, before you plan to take a taste check, it’s best to check for any discoloration. If you find the almond milk at hand with a muddy look, it’s a clear sign of spoilage.

4. Lumps – If the consistency of your almond milk turns lumpy, it’s a good sign to tell that the milk has gone bad. But you should keep in mind that milk taken out of the freezer might also have a few lumps due to the formation of ice. In that case, you should give it a good shake before consuming it.

5. Black Spots – Black spots in food and drinks are the most common signs of spoilage. If your food grows strange black spots, you should throw it away.

How To Store Almond Milk?

Now that you’ve learned that almond milk can go bad, let me give you some of the best tips to make this beverage last longer. There are many factors that determine the shelf life of almond milk. 

1. Homemade Almond Milk

In the case of homemade almond milk, its average lifespan is around 3 to 5 days if you store the drink properly in an airtight container. However, its lifespan may also be affected by the quality of the almonds.

2. Shelf-stable Almond Milk

Packed shelf-stable almond milk can be stored at room temperature for 3 or 4 weeks, even after the expiry date. However, it’s not recommended to put this type of almond milk into the fridge as it reaches its expiry date sooner. 

On the other hand, once opened, shelf-stable almond milk should be put in the fridge immediately. This should help last the beverage for another 7 to 10 days.

3. Store-bought refrigerated almond milk 

Packed store-bought refrigerated almond milk can last from 7 to 10 days past the expiry date. However, once opened, this milk should be consumed within ten days at most.

It should also be noted that only shelf-stable almond milk can last without refrigeration up to 3 weeks after the expiry date. Additionally, homemade almond milk should always be stored in the refrigerator.

4. Freeze Almond Milk

In addition to refrigeration, almond milk can also be frozen in the form of ice cubes, milk packets, or milk bottles. But one must keep in mind that freezing almonds can disrupt the texture, consistency, and color of the milk as it turns into ice crystals.

But does freezing extend almond milk’s shelf life? No, freezing will not help to extend the shelf life of almond milk for more than a few days. Once defrosted, the product’s shelf life becomes even shorter.

Some Almond Milk Alternatives That Taste The Same?

Almond milk, being one of the popular vegan milks, offers a great texture to many recipes. However, if you don’t have almond milk at home, you can use its alternatives such as soy milk, rice milk, oat milk, hemp milk, flaxseed, and cashew milk. These substitutes can be used in the same ratio as almond milk.

1. Soy Milk

Soy milk is plant-based milk, just like almond milk, that tends to have a rich taste and texture. It is made of water, soybeans, and oil, and you can find it in both sweetened and unsweetened varieties. In terms of nutritional value, soy milk contains more vitamins B12, vitamin D, and vitamin A as well as more fiber and protein. 

2. Rice Milk

Rice milk is another great alternative to almond milk. This type of milk is made of brown rice. You can find plain rice milk as well as sweetened and flavored rice milk varieties in the market.

As compared to other alternatives, rice milk is lower in protein. But if you like its taste, it can be a great option. You can add rice milk to your coffee and desserts or have it on its own. In terms of flavor, it is sweeter than almond milk. So, when using in place of almond milk, keep the quantities of added sugar in mind.

3. Oat Milk

If you want to avoid a nutty taste in your coffee, then oat milk can be a great alternative to almond milk. The taste of oat milk tends to be more neutral, and it is creamier in texture compared to almond milk. It also contains more calories.

You can use oat milk in the same quantity you would use almond milk in any baked goods, smoothies, or coffee.

4. Hemp Milk

Although less popular than almond milk, hemp milk makes a perfect alternative for people who are soy or lactose intolerant but enjoy milk. It is rich in protein, minerals, vitamins, and fatty acids.

It has a subtle and nutty flavor that resembles almond milk and compliments most of the recipes. It is also low in calories and carbohydrates. 

5. Flaxseed milk

Like almond milk, flaxseed mild has a naturally sweeter taste. It is a great substitute for people looking at a low-calorie intake. Although you can use flax milk in all types of recipes, it’s good to note that certain brands of this milk come with a significant amount of added sugar.

6. Cashew milk

 Although cashew milk tends to be pricier than almond milk, it can be used in place of almond milk for its rich flavor and creamier texture. 

It has plenty of minerals, vitamins, and also fatty acids that you can benefit from by using this milk in your recipes. It makes for a good addition to tea, coffee, hot chocolate, smoothies, and many more recipes. 

Health Benefits Of Almond Milk

Those looking for a dairy-free milk substitute have probably wondered how good almond milk is for you. Let me tell you that if you’re sensitive to regular milk or a vegan, then almond milk makes for a fabulous alternative.

It is rich in nutritional content and contains many health benefits. Let’s take a look at them.

1. Weight management

One cup of almond milk contains only 60 calories, as compared to 146 calories in whole milk. Thus, almond milk makes for a great substitute for regular milk, one that will help you maintain or lose weight.

2. Keep bones strong

Although almond milk doesn’t offer as much calcium as cow’s milk, you need not be disappointed. It provides 30 percent of the recommended daily amount of calcium and 25 percent of the recommended amount of vitamin D. These nutrients work together to provide healthy bones and teeth formation.

3. Sugar Impact

Almond milk with no additives is low in carbohydrates. This means it won’t increase your blood sugar levels. Because of its low glycemic index, your body uses carbs as energy.

4. Healthy heart

There’s no cholesterol or saturated fat found in almond milk, and it’s also low in sodium and high in healthy fats. These properties help to prevent high blood pressure and heart disease.

5. Skin and Eye Health

Packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E and A, almond milk helps in maintaining skin and eye health. Apart from them, it also contains antioxidants that assist in repairing damaged skin. 

Nutritional Content Of Almond Milk

Almond milk is a natural and excellent source of vitamin E that helps protect your body from free radical damage. Some varieties provide important nutrients for bone health as they are fortified with calcium and vitamin D. It is a highly versatile product and makes a great milk substitute for vegans and people allergic or intolerant to dairy. Apart from the store-bought varieties, you can easily make almond milk at home. 

Conclusion

So, what does almond milk taste like? Delicious! The sweetness and subtle flavor profile that almond milk offers makes almond milk a popular choice among people over other milk varieties. It can be a great plant-based option for those avoiding cow’s milk. Unsweetened varieties of almond milk are naturally low in calories and sugar. But they provide plenty of vitamin E. 

That said, almond milk is low in protein, and sweetened types can be loaded with sugar.

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