Hazelnut milk is a newer type of milk made from nuts. But how does it compare to good ol’ cow’s milk?
These two are going head-to-head to see which one comes out on top. They both have different tastes, uses, and nutritional benefits. So, let’s explore this showdown between what we’re used to and something nutty and new!
Comparing hazelnut milk vs milk
Hazelnut milk | Cow milk (including whole, 2%, skim, etc.) | |
Type | Plant-based (nut/seed milk) | Animal-based |
Common allergens | Tree nut | Milk |
Vegan? | Yes | No |
Paleo? | Yes | No |
Keto? | Yes | No |
Hazelnut milk is a type of nut milk, making it vegan, dairy-free, and lactose-free! Of course, it’s not suitable for those with nut allergies since it’s made from hazelnuts.
Hazelnut milk is also a paleo and keto-friendly option, unlike cow’s milk.
Differences between hazelnut milk and milk
The key differences between hazelnut milk and cow’s milk lie in their ingredients, taste, and texture. Hazelnut milk is a nut-based alternative with a distinct nutty, slightly sweet flavor and a thinner texture, while cow’s milk is creamier with a milder taste.
To make hazelnut milk, hazelnuts are typically blended with water to create a milk-like consistency. Some commercial brands might add sweeteners like cane sugar or natural sweeteners like dates to enhance the flavor. Some store-bought versions might also include stabilizers and thickeners to improve texture and shelf life.
Cow’s milk is derived from, well, cows! It naturally consists of water, fat, protein, lactose (milk sugar), vitamins, and minerals.
Types of cow’s milk
Depending on the fat content, you’ll find whole milk, 2% milk, 1% milk, and skim milk, each with varying levels of fat:
Whole milk: Creamy and rich, with a hefty 3.5% milk fat content.
2% milk (reduced-fat): Slightly lighter, clocking in at 2% milk fat.
1% milk (low-fat): Even lighter, with 1% milk fat.
Skim milk (non-fat): Fat-free, containing a mere 0% milk fat.
Lactose-free milk: For those who struggle with lactose, this is a lactose-free alternative.
Raw milk (whole): Straight from the cow, this one’s a bit old-school and full of flavor.
Flavored milk: Think chocolate, strawberry, and more – a sweet twist on the classic.
How to use hazelnut milk vs milk
Hazelnut milk and cow’s milk each have their unique roles in the kitchen. Here’s a quick rundown of how you can make the most of them:
Hazelnut milk:
- Coffee
- Smoothies
- Cereal
- Oatmeal
- Baking (think hazelnut-infused cookies and cakes)
- Pancake batter
- Salad dressings
- Sauces
Milk:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Smoothies
- Cereal
- Cooking (soups, sauces, gravies)
- Baking (from bread to brownies)
- Pancake batter
- Ice cream
Can you substitute hazelnut milk for milk?
Hazelnut milk can be substituted for cow’s milk in recipes, but differences in flavor and texture should be considered.
Hazelnut milk offers a nutty and slightly sweet taste, which might complement some dishes but not others. Its thinner texture can affect recipes that rely on the creaminess of cow’s milk.
Adjustments may be needed for baking, frothing, and sweetened varieties. Also, nut allergies should always be taken into account!
Start with forgiving recipes and a 1:1 substitution ratio, but be prepared to adapt based on individual preferences and recipe requirements.
Nutrition: Hazelnut milk vs milk
While not very high in protein or carbs, hazelnut milk has more fat than other plant-based milks – even more than whole milk! Hazelnut milk isn’t typically fortified with added vitamins and minerals like some other nut milks (looking at you, almond milk!).
Cow’s milk is much higher in protein, and many cow’s milk brands are fortified with vitamins such as vitamin D and calcium for added nutritional value.
Below is a comparison of 1 cup of unsweetened hazelnut milk and the main different types of cow milk:
Per cup (237 ml/8 oz.) | Calories | Total fat (sat. fat) | Total carbs | Total sugars (incl. added) | Protein | Calcium | Vit D |
Hazelnut milk | 90 | 9 g (0.5 g) | 1 g | 1 g (0 g) | 2 g | 2% DV | 0% DV |
Whole milk | 160 | 8 g (4.5 g) | 11 g | 10 g (0 g) | 8 g | 25% DV | 10% DV |
2% milk | 130 | 5 g (3 g) | 12 g | 12 g (0 g) | 8 g | 25% DV | 10% DV |
1% milk | 110 | 2.5 g (1.4 g) | 13 g | 12 g (0g) | 8 g | 25% DV | 10% DV |
Skim milk (nonfat milk) | 90 | 0 g | 13 g | 12 g (0 g) | 8 g | 30% DV | 25% DV |
How to store hazelnut milk and milk
Storage matters! Ensuring your beverages stay fresh and tasty is crucial, so here’s how you can keep both hazelnut milk and cow’s milk in tip-top condition:
Generally, it’s best to store hazelnut milk in the fridge. Be sure to give it a good shake before using, as separation is natural. The shelf life can vary, but it’s usually around 7-10 days after opening.
Like hazelnut milk, store cow’s milk in the fridge. It can last anywhere from 5 to 7 days after the sell-by date.
Hazelnut milk vs milk: The ultimate verdict
Both types of milk have their unique quirks. Personally, I prefer hazelnut milk. It’s a higher fat milk that makes a great addition to beverages like coffee, as it froths well and adds a velvety, nutty layer. However, when it comes to cooking and baking, I find regular milk more versatile due to its mild flavor and creamy texture.
FAQs:
Hazelnut milk is a plant-based alternative to cow’s milk, suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or follow a vegan diet, but it has different nutritional profiles and may not provide the same levels of protein and calcium as cow’s milk. The choice between the two depends on individual dietary preferences and nutritional needs.
Hazelnut milk can be part of a balanced diet, especially if you’re looking for dairy-free and lactose-free alternatives. However, its nutritional value might not match that of fortified nut milks or cow’s milk.
Nut milk (such as almond or oat milk) tends to be lower in calories and saturated fat, making it a potential option for those seeking dairy-free alternatives or specific dietary goals. However, traditional dairy milk provides essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D that may be lacking in some nut milks.
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