Macadamia Milk vs Coconut Milk: The Ultimate Verdict

While macadamia nuts, the nuts behind macadamia milk, are affectionately called the “queen of the nuts” thanks to their buttery texture and rich flavor, coconut milk isn’t without its own interesting nickname too. The “milk of paradise” (yes, seriously, that’s what they call coconut milk) has an unmistakable tropical flair that is commonly used in baking and cooking. If you’re interested in what these beloved milks have to uniquely offer, let’s go ahead and get into this comparison between macadamia milk vs coconut milk!

Comparing macadamia milk vs coconut milk

	Macadamia milk	Coconut milk
Type	Plant-based (nuts)	Plant-based (nuts)
Allergens	Tree nuts	Tree nuts (though most people with tree nut allergies can consume coconut products)
Vegan?	Yes	Yes
Paleo?	Yes	Yes
Keto?	Yes	Yes

Macadamia milk and coconut milk are versatile dairy milk alternatives that fit perfectly into a variety of diets. Both are paleo, keto, and vegan-friendly! And while both come from tree nuts, most people with tree nut allergies can safely consume coconut products. That’s because coconuts aren’t technically classified as true nuts, and their protein composition is different from typical tree nuts like macadamias.

Differences between macadamia milk and coconut milk

The biggest distinction between macadamia milk and coconut milk is their flavor profile and texture. Macadamia milk tends to have a mild, buttery flavor with a slightly nutty base, and is much more similar to other nut milk varieties like cashew. It’s a great choice for adding a little something extra to coffee or certain recipes. On the other hand, coconut has a more pronounced tropical coconut flavor, with a thick and creamy consistency. It’s perfect for both sweet and savory dishes, particularly in Asian and tropical cuisines.

There are actually two types of coconut milk: canned and carton. Canned coconut milk is very high in fat and mostly solid at room temperature, whereas carton coconut milk is liquid and ready to drink.

Canned coconut milk is typically used in cooking, made by heating high-fat coconut pulp in hot water and then extracting the liquid. Meanwhile, carton coconut milk is made by blending thick coconut milk or coconut cream with water, typically fortified with calcium and vitamin D. 

How to use macadamia milk vs coconut milk

Macadamia milk:

• Use in creamy soups, risottos, or mashed potatoes for dairy-free richness.
• Make silky puddings or custards.
• Use as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream in sauces.
• Froth to make a latte or cappuccino.
• Blend with greens and fruits for a smoothie.

Coconut milk:

• Add to exotic Thai, Indian, or other Asian curries.
• Create vibrant smoothies, such as this keto mojito smoothie.
• Use to make homemade dairy-free yogurt.
• Add to favorite soups like tom kha gai (Thai coconut soup) or butternut squash soup.
• Make desserts like orange coconut creamsicles.

Can you substitute macadamia milk for coconut milk?

There are many instances where you can substitute macadamia milk for coconut milk and vice versa! But, of course, there are some considerations. While both are creamier plant-based options, macadamia milk has a milder, nuttier flavor and a thinner texture compared to coconut milk. In dishes where the coconutty flavor and milk thickness is essential, like coconut-based desserts or stews and curries, it’s best to stick to coconut milk.

Nutrition: Macadamia milk vs coconut milk

While many plant-based milks might have a reputation for being good sources of protein (fortified or natural), macadamia milk and coconut milk don’t have that status. Both are actually two of the lowest protein milks on the market. On the other hand, they are also very low in calories and provide a lot of calcium and vitamin D.

In terms of unique potential benefits, coconut milk has the benefit of being rich in medium-chain fatty acids, which are associated with several health benefits, such as improved cognitive function. Macadamia milk is quite similar to other nut milks in terms of benefits, being gluten-free and fortified with plenty of vitamins and minerals.

Per 1 cup (237 ml/8 oz.)	Calories	Total fat (sat. fat)	Total carbs	Total sugars (incl. added)	Protein	Calcium	Vit D
Macadamia milk	50	5 g (1 g)	1 g	0 g	1 g	30% DV	25% DV
Coconut milk	40	4 g (3.5 g)	2 g	<1 g (0 g)	0 g	45% DV	25% DV

How to store macadamia milk and coconut milk

All cans and most cartons of coconut milk and macadamia milk are shelf-stable if unopened but need to be refrigerated immediately after opening. If you’ve made homemade coconut milk or homemade macadamia milk, they will need to be refrigerated straight away. When it comes to how long they last, both tend to last around 7 – 10 days in the fridge once opened.

Canned varieties of coconut milk don’t tend to stay fresh for as long as carton coconut milk once opened, but the good news is you can freeze coconut milk. Just remember that the texture might change once unfrozen.

Macadamia milk vs coconut milk: What’s the verdict?

Here’s my final verdict: It’s clear that this dynamic duo lends themselves better to different uses in the kitchen. Macadamia milk’s milder, more neutral profile makes it a good pairing in your morning coffee or blended into a smoothie, enhancing creaminess a little without overpowering flavors. Coconut milk’s rich tropical essence is clearly a winner in tropical desserts, cocktails, curries, and more to add that unmistakable texture and flavor!

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