If you’ve been browsing the dairy alternatives aisle lately, you’ve probably noticed the wide variety of plant-based milk options available. Two popular contenders are cashew milk and almond milk. They might sound similar, but believe me, they’ve got their own unique characteristics that set them apart.
In this article, I’m going to dive into the world of cashew milk and almond milk, discussing their differences, taste, texture, usage, nutrition, storage, and ultimately, help you decide which one might be your new go-to!
Comparing cashew milk vs almond milk
| Cashew milk (unfortified) | Almond milk | |
| Type | Plant-based (nut/seed milk) | Plant-based (nut milk) |
| Common allergens | Tree nuts | Tree nuts |
| Vegan? | Yes | Yes |
| Paleo? | Yes | Yes |
| Keto? | No | Yes |
Differences between cashew milk and almond milk
Both cashew milk and almond milk are made by soaking and grinding their respective nuts in water, then straining out the liquid from the leftover nut pulp. Check out how to make cashew milk and almond milk at home (it’s easier than you think)!
Both taste nutty, but you might notice that cashew milk tends to be creamier and thicker, often boasting a more velvety texture compared to almond milk.
Depending on the brand, you might find some versions containing added thickeners or emulsifiers to enhance their consistency. Some brands even sneak in almonds into cashew milk, like Silk’s Cashew Milk.
How to use cashew milk vs almond milk
Here are some quick-fire ideas for using cashew milk and almond milk in your everyday life:
Cashew milk:
- Creamy smoothies
- Coffee creamer
- Creamy vegan soups and sauces
- Pancakes and waffles
- Oatmeal
- Baked Goods
- Dairy-free puddings and desserts
- Cereal or granola
Almond milk:
- Pancakes and waffles
- Smoothies
- Creamy dairy-free pasta sauces
- Lattes and hot drinks
- Baked goods
- Breakfast cereals
- Dips and dressings
- Overnight oats
You’ll notice these lists are pretty similar, which brings us to my next point…
Can you substitute cashew milk for almond milk?
Absolutely! Since they are both nut milks, cashew and almond milk are quite interchangeable in most recipes. Their similar consistencies and mild flavors make swapping them out a breeze. So, whether it’s cashew milk in your morning coffee or almond milk in your baking endeavors, you’re likely to achieve the same fantastic results.
Nutrition: Cashew milk vs almond milk
Both nut-based alternatives offer a dairy-free option. Almond milk boasts fewer calories, lower fat, and reduced carbs compared to cashew milk. Cashew milk, on the other hand, offers slightly higher protein content.
Note that the nutritional values can vary between different brands and formulations. While the cashew milk brand we looked at is unfortified, it’s common for various brands of both cashew and almond milk to be enriched with calcium, iron, and vitamins E and D.
| Per cup (237 ml/8 oz.) | Calories | Total fat (sat. fat) | Total carbs | Total sugars (incl. added) | Protein | Calcium | Vit D |
| Cashew milk (unfortified) | 130 | 10 g (1.5 g) | 7 g | 1 g (0 g) | 4 g | 2% DV | 0% DV |
| Almond milk | 30 | 2.5 g (0 g) | 1 g | 0 g | 1 g | 45% DV | 25% DV |
How to store cashew milk and almond milk
So, you’ve got your nut milk haul – now how do you keep it fresh and delicious?
Storing both cashew milk and almond milk is a breeze. Simply pop them in the fridge, unopened, and make sure to give them a gentle shake before using, as they can naturally separate over time.
Once opened, consume within about 7-10 days to ensure peak freshness.
Pro tip: if you don’t plan to use a whole carton within that time frame, consider freezing it in ice cube trays for later use in smoothies or recipes.
Cashew milk vs almond milk: Which is better
And now, the million-dollar question – which one is better?
Truth be told, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It all boils down to your personal taste, dietary preferences, and how you plan to use it. If you’re all about creaminess and versatility, cashew milk might win your heart. Personally, I prefer cashew milk over almond milk for things like coffee and creamy dishes. I find it’s closer to regular milk, whereas almond milk has less fat and tends to have a thinner consistency. But if you’re aiming for something lighter and more subtly flavored, almond milk might be your new sidekick!
FAQs:
Well, both cashew milk and almond milk are healthy alternatives to dairy milk, each with its own nutritional perks. It really depends on your dietary goals and preferences.
Not necessarily. While cashew milk is a great source of healthy fats and essential vitamins, other nut milks like almond milk also bring their own unique nutritional benefits to the table.
Pros: Creamy texture, mild nutty flavor, good source of healthy fats and vitamins. Cons: May have added thickeners or emulsifiers, can be pricier than other plant-based milk options.
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