The Best Plant-Based Milks For Your Coffee

Not All Plant Milks Are Created Equal

Many coffee drinkers are steering away from dairy milk for dietary or ethical reasons. However, plant milks are not the straightforward alternatives that some may think. The market for plant-based milks is constantly innovating, but one should first consider what coffee pairings work best with their vegan products. Soy, cashew, almond, and coconut milks tend to pair better with bright and floral light roasts, while oat milk’s neutral taste makes it a great option for all coffees.

Finding The Best Milk For Coffee
Espresso and frothed milk is a classic combination. A delicately steamed microfoam can enhance the aromatic characteristics of fresh coffee. When combined correctly, the final product is something full of delicious contrasts. Sweet and bitter. Light but sharp. Balanced yet intensely flavorful.

Today, many coffee drinkers are steering away from dairy milk for various reasons. Some might have dietary restrictions, while others prefer plant-based milks for ethical reasons. However, plant milks are not the straightforward alternatives that some may think.

When combined with espresso, cow's milk tends to feel neutral on the palate, whereas plant milks have distinct aftertastes. To choose the best milk alternatives for your coffee, one should consider the bean variety and level of roast being used.

Soy Milk
Soy milk is crafted from crushing soaked soybeans. One of the best milk alternatives for coffee, soy milk is creamy, high in protein, and has a mild earthy flavor when using unsweetened brands. Soy milk is also a popular option for lattes because of its stable structure when frothed.

When paired with full-bodied coffees with higher acidity levels or intense floral and earthy notes, soy milk does an excellent job of balancing out these flavors without diluting them. Here are some excellent pairings:

Arabica & Robusta Blends with MEDIUM DARK and DARK roast.
100% Arabica MEDIUM DARK and DARK roast.
Single-origin Robusta Coffee: Indonesia Java, India Cherry, MEDIUM DARK, and DARK roast.
Single-origin Arabica Coffee: Ethiopia, Kenya, Panama, MEDIUM and LIGHT roast
100% Arabica Coffee Blends LIGHT roast.
Single origin Arabica coffee: Brazil, Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Indonesia, India, Jamaica Blue Mountain MEDIUM roast.