Explore Alternative Milk Characteristics

Almond Milk, Low Carb
Soy Milk, Rich Protein
Oat Milk, Well-rounded
Coconut Milk, High Calories and Fat

Alternative Milk Characteristics #1: Almond Milk, Low Carb

Almond milk is a low-calorie alternative to dairy milk, often fortified with vitamins and minerals. It has a mild, nutty flavour that complements various dishes and beverages without overpowering them. Almond milk’s texture is thinner than dairy milk, which can affect frothing, and barista blends are used to improve this. It’s important to note that almond milk is not suitable for those with nut allergies, so coffee shops should offer alternative milk options for allergic customers.

Alternative Milk Characteristics #2: Soy Milk, Rich Protein

Soy milk is a highly nutritious dairy milk alternative, rich in protein, amino acids, healthy fats, fibre, calcium, vitamin D, and iron when fortified. It has a creamy, slightly bean-like flavour, and its taste may vary by brand. Soy milk’s creamy texture makes it excellent for frothing, preferred by baristas for dense and stable foam due to its protein content. It’s popular for those with lactose intolerance and vegans. While some worry about phytoestrogens in soy, current research suggests moderate soy consumption is generally safe and may have health benefits.

Alternative Milk Characteristics #3: Oat Milk, Well-rounded

Oat milk is a nutritious dairy milk alternative, particularly when fortified, with higher carbohydrates and lower fat. It contains dietary fibre, and its natural sweetness from oats makes it appealing. Oat milk has a creamy texture and froths well, preferred by baristas for coffee and latte art. Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should opt for certified gluten-free oat milk to avoid potential cross-contamination issues during processing.

Alternative Milk Characteristics #4: Coconut Milk, High Calories and Fat

Coconut milk is calorie-dense and contains saturated fat but also healthy MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides). It may be fortified with calcium. It has a strong tropical coconut flavour, offering a creamy taste to coffee. The texture varies between canned and carton versions; canned is higher in fat, while carton is lighter. Frothing coconut milk can be challenging due to its high fat content, making it less suitable for dense foam like dairy milk or some other plant-based options. Baristas often experiment with brands and blends for better frothing results.

Conclusion

As baristas, having the deepen knowledge in almond, soy, oat, and coconut milk allows you to create extraordinary coffee experiences. Embrace the diversity of plant-based milks to cater to various preferences and introduce to your customers. By exploring these alternate milks, you contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable coffee culture. Happy barista-ing and cheers to the endless possibilities of plant-based milks!