These 5 milk alternatives come to the rescue if you run out mid-baking (or are lactose-intolerant!) (2024)

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It’s pretty much any home cook’s worst nightmare. You’re knee-deep in a baking project when you reach into the fridge, pull out a carton of milk — and come to the horrible realization that someone stuck that puppy back in with only a few drops left.

But before you let desperation set in, these easy milk substitutes in baking will help your goods come out just as moist and flavorful as if you had used real milk, and you probably even have them sitting around in your refrigerator or pantry.

Water

You can use water in most baking recipes that call for milk. Use 1 cup of water and 1-1/2 teaspoons of butter for every 1 cup of milk called for in the recipe. The extra butter will help your baked goods stay moist.

Evaporated milk or dry milk

Check the back of your pantry for evaporated milk or dry milk powder. To replace 1 cup of regular milk, use 1/2 cup evaporated milk mixed with 1/2 cup water, or make the equivalent of 1 cup of milk using the dried milk powder.

More: 6 Brilliant Egg Swaps That Will Work for Any Baker

Canned coconut milk

Canned coconut milk will sub beautifully for regular milk in your baked goods while imbuing a subtle coconut flavor to your food. Use 1 part coconut milk for every 1 part of regular milk called for in the recipe, skimming any coconut solids from the top of the can before measuring.

Nut, rice or oat milk

Even if you don’t have any nondairy milk in your fridge, if you keep oats, cooked rice or unsalted nuts on hand, you’re in luck. For simple almond milk, blend 1 cup of soaked almonds with 4 cups of water, then strain. Oat milk is easy and cheap too —just blend 1 cup of rolled oats with 3 cups of water, then strain. For rice milk, blend 1 cup of cooked rice with 3 cups of water, then strain.

More: Make Lunch Fun With These Turkey Sushi Roll-ups

Yogurt

Yogurt will add moisture and a slight tang to your baked goods. Plain yogurt is best, as Greek yogurt’s high protein content can change the texture of your food. Use the same amount of plain yogurt as you would milk in your recipe. You can also use kefir, a drinkable yogurt, as a 1:1 substitute for milk.

These 5 milk alternatives come to the rescue if you run out mid-baking (or are lactose-intolerant!) (4)

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These 5 milk alternatives come to the rescue if you run out mid-baking (or are lactose-intolerant!) (2024)

FAQs

These 5 milk alternatives come to the rescue if you run out mid-baking (or are lactose-intolerant!)? ›

Nut, oat, rice, and soy milk can be swapped for equal quantities of milk. When selecting milk alternatives, use the unsweetened varieties to avoid added sugars. The taste and nutrition vary with each non-dairy beverage, so consider them when choosing one that's best for you.

What milk alternatives are available for lactose intolerance? ›

People who are lactose intolerant can safely consume lactose-free cow's milk or non-dairy milk alternatives that are naturally free from lactose. Lactose-free cow's milk, as well as non-dairy milks such as coconut milk, soy milk, and almond milk, are all good alternatives to regular cow's milk.

What is a good substitute for milk when baking? ›

Milk in most recipes hydrates the dry ingredients and adds flavor, and there are plenty of substitutes that can do just that without compromising the final result.
  • Half and half. ...
  • Heavy cream. ...
  • Nondairy milks, like soy and almond. ...
  • Sour cream. ...
  • Yogurt. ...
  • Evaporated milk. ...
  • Canned coconut milk. ...
  • Water.
Dec 3, 2021

What are 4 alternatives for milk? ›

Check out the nutrition facts about these six common milk alternatives.
  • Soy Milk. Soy milk has been the most popular non-dairy substitute for decades because its nutrition profile closely resembles that of cow's milk. ...
  • Almond Milk. ...
  • Rice Milk. ...
  • Coconut Milk. ...
  • Hemp Milk. ...
  • Cashew Milk.
Jul 19, 2021

What can you use instead of milk when you run out? ›

Dairy Substitutes for Milk
  • Cream or Half-and-Half. Cream is richer than milk, so to avoid heavier dough or batter use a ratio of about 60 percent cream to 40 percent water. ...
  • Evaporated or Powdered Milk. ...
  • Sour Cream or Plain Yogurt. ...
  • Water (or Water and Butter) ...
  • Nut Milk. ...
  • Soy Milk. ...
  • Oat Milk. ...
  • Rice Milk.
Apr 3, 2023

What's the healthiest milk substitute? ›

Dairy milks typically have the most nutritional value. Among the plant options, soy milk comes closest to the nutritional profile of cow's and goat's milks. Many plant-based milks are lower in saturated fat and calories than cow's milk.

What milk is easiest on the stomach? ›

According to this guide, almond, hemp, and coconut milks may work for people with IBS. Just pay attention to your serving size. You may also want to try kefir. The fermentation process lowers lactose to a better level for those with IBS and lactose intolerance.

What is the best non dairy substitute for milk in baking? ›

Among other milk alternatives like almond milk, soy milk and oat milk, soy milk is by far the best for baking. I learned this over the course of several years and many cookies, cakes, muffins and pies. Moreover, some people will tell you that you must swap full-fat coconut milk in for heavy cream or half-and-half.

What is a replacement for butter? ›

Coconut oil, olive oil, safflower oil, and coconut butter are some of the most used butter alternatives. Depending on temperature, coconut oil can be both a solid and a liquid. This versatility is exceedingly helpful depending on the intended use.

What milk doesn't cause bloating? ›

To avoid the uncomfortable feelings of bloating, here are the best non-dairy milks you should try: Oat Milk is a great option because it doesn't contain carrageenan which is often found in almond or coconut milk as an emulsifier.

What is the best milk alternative for sensitive stomach? ›

While some plant milks, such as soy and oat milk, offer specific gut health benefits due to their protein and fiber content, others like almond and rice milk are gentler on the stomach.

What is the healthiest lactose free milk? ›

Soy milk and the various nut milks without added sugar — such as almond, walnut, peanut, cashew, hazelnut or macadamia nut milk — as well as hemp and flax milks are higher in heart-healthy unsaturated fats, and also tend to have fewer calories than cow's milk.

Is any cheese dairy-free? ›

Violife cheese is the largest dairy-free cheese brand in the world, so wherever you are located, you are sure to find it at your local grocer. Violife is a creation all on its own, closely mimicking famous dairy cheeses like hard parmesan, manchego, always a cheese board favorite, and 'to die for' feta cheese crumbles.

Is there a cheese substitute? ›

06/6Tahini Spread

This is a vegan alternative of dairy cheese and can be used as a dip, sandwich spread, or even sauce. Packed with plant-based protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, tahini promotes heart health and aids digestion.

Which tastes better, oat milk or almond milk? ›

Oat milk tends to offer a sweeter taste and is naturally more thick and creamy—perfect for warm beverages in the morning and sweet treats. While almond milk is less creamy, it offers a subtle, nutty flavor that pairs nicely in savory dishes and cereals.

What is the healthiest lactose-free milk alternative? ›

Soy milk and the various nut milks without added sugar — such as almond, walnut, peanut, cashew, hazelnut or macadamia nut milk — as well as hemp and flax milks are higher in heart-healthy unsaturated fats, and also tend to have fewer calories than cow's milk.

Can I drink oat milk if I'm lactose intolerant? ›

Oat milk, on the other hand, is naturally lactose-free, making it a safe option for people who experience lactose intolerance symptoms. Moreover, oat milk is also a great source of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals.

What milk is dairy free but tastes like milk? ›

Wondermilk. Out of the listed options, the So Delicious Dairy Free Wondermilk tops as the best brand that closely resembles actual milk in terms of consistency, creaminess and slightly sweet mild flavor. It contains coconut and oat milk, with hints of oat taste and full texture.

Can lactose intolerant drink almond milk? ›

Almond milk has no lactose (a type of sugar found naturally in dairy milk) since it's not an animal product. As a result, it's a good milk substitute for people with lactose intolerance. It's also suitable for people who are vegan (don't eat animal products).

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