13 Best Milk Alternatives for Tea

As the popularity of vegan and free-from diets continues to grow, the world of tea is undergoing a transformation. No longer a simple choice between "milk and sugar," tea drinkers are now faced with the decision of "regular milk or plant-based milk?" This shift reflects the evolving preferences of consumers in today's changing landscape.

Experience a world of dairy-free and vegan milk options like never before. Embrace the freedom to indulge in a creamy cuppa, even for vegans, individuals with allergies, or lactose intolerance.

No more settling for tea black or green tea - discover a plethora of alternatives to traditional milk, allowing all tea enthusiasts to savor the delight of a milky brew.

Choosing the best milk alternative for your tea can be overwhelming if you're new to using alternative milk.

What is Plant Based Milk

Plant-based milk, as the name suggests, is a milk alternative derived from plants. It encompasses a wide variety of dairy-free milks made from different plant sources such as soy, almond, oat, coconut, and rice, to name a few. These milk alternatives are made by grinding a plant-based product, mixing it with water, and then straining the mixture to remove the pulp.

The surge in popularity of plant-based milks is due to a multitude of reasons. For some, it's a dietary choice driven by lactose intolerance or allergies to cow's milk, while others opt for plant-based milks for ethical reasons, such as veganism or concerns over animal welfare.

For many, the reduced environmental impact of plant-based milks compared to dairy milk is a significant factor. Additionally, the variety of flavours offered by different plant-based milks can provide a unique twist to your regular cup of tea.

What is Lactose Free Milk

Lactose intolerance is a common digestive disorder where the body is unable to fully digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. This occurs due to a deficiency of lactase, an enzyme produced in the small intestine, which is responsible for breaking down lactose into simpler sugars for easy absorption.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance usually occur within a few hours of consuming dairy products and can vary in severity. Common symptoms include bloating, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and gas. Some individuals might experience severe symptoms, while others may only have mild discomfort.

Lactose-free milk is an excellent alternative for those with lactose intolerance. It's essentially regular cow's milk, but the lactase enzyme has been added to it. This added lactase breaks down the lactose in the milk, making it easier to digest for those who struggle with lactose intolerance.

It retains the same nutritional profile as regular milk, providing essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamin D. It's also a great choice for tea lovers who want the creamy richness of milk in their brew without the discomfort associated with lactose.

Best Milk Options for Vegans 

Veganism is a lifestyle choice that excludes the use, consumption, and exploitation of animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose. Vegans eat a plant-based diet free from all animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and honey.

Sourcing the best milk alternative for vegans can be a challenge given the sea of options in the market. However, the top contenders are:

1. Soya Milk: This is one of the most popular and widely available milk alternatives for tea. It has a creamy consistency similar to cow's milk, making it an excellent option for tea.
2. Almond Milk: A nutty, slightly sweet alternative, almond milk can slightly alter the flavour of your tea. It's a good source of vitamin E and is often fortified with calcium and vitamin D.
3. Oat Milk: Oat milk is known for its creamy texture and mild, slightly sweet taste. It blends well with tea, providing a smooth, rich flavour.
4. Coconut Milk: This alternative has a distinct flavour that might not suit all types of tea. However, its creamy texture makes it a good option for making a dairy-free 'milky' tea.
5. Rice Milk: This is naturally sweeter than other plant-based milks and blends well with tea. However, it's thinner in consistency.

Each of these milk alternatives offers unique benefits and flavours. The best option depends on individual taste preferences and dietary requirements.

The Best Milk Alternative for Tea

If you're searching for the perfect milk alternative for your tea, you've come to the right place. In this article, we will explore the various options available and delve into how different milk alternatives can enhance your morning cup of tea. Join us as we reveal the top 13 dairy milk alternatives for tea that are sure to excite your.

Discover a wide range of delicious and safe milk alternatives to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. From popular nut milks like almond and cashew to unique options like hazelnut and macadamia, there are plenty of choices to explore.

For those with nut allergies, fear not - plant-based options like soy, coconut, rice, hemp, and oat milk offer a safe and satisfying alternative. Find the perfect milk substitute for you today.

1. Soy Milk Alternative

Soy milk, also known as soya milk, has been the primary milk alternative in cafes and supermarkets for quite some time. As a result, it has become the go-to choice for many individuals and continues to be the most favored plant-based milk option.

The process of making soy milk involves soaking and grinding soybeans, followed by boiling the mixture and filtering out any remaining particles.

Experience the creamy texture of soy milk, a refreshing alternative to other options like almond and hazelnut milk. Discover the unique taste that sets soy milk apart, although not as sweet.

However, be mindful when pouring it into your favorite tea, as the mildly acidic nature of tea and the temperature difference may cause it to split. Savor the goodness of soy milk with every sip.

Prevent soy milk separation in your tea by gently warming it prior to adding to your tea recipes.

The Pros of Soya Milk

• Conveniently found in supermarkets and cafes.
• Affordable compared to other non-dairy milk options.
• Offers a velvety, creamy texture.
• Packed with protein and minimal sugar content.

The Cons of Soya Milk

• Less sweetness may not satisfy those with a preference for sweeter tea.
• Prior warming may be necessary to prevent separation.

Try Soya Milk as an Alluring Alternative for Your Beverages.

2. Almond Milk Alternative

Almond milk is the most popular nut milk in the world, and it's easy to understand why. The mild taste of almonds adds a creamy sweetness to any recipe without overpowering other flavours.

It's made by soaking raw or blanched almonds in water and then grinding them into a paste; later on, any remaining pieces are strained out using a cheesecloth, leaving behind a silky smooth liquid.

Due to its nutty flavour and creamy texture, almond milk pairs perfectly with most hot beverages like tea and coffee. Discover the alluring sweetness of almond milk as it adds an extra layer of richness to your favorite cup of tea.

The Pros of Almond Milk

• Delicious nutty flavour and creamy texture.
• It’s low in calories — usually 20-35 calories per 100ml.
• Easily found in supermarkets and cafes.
• Packed with healthy fats, minerals, and vitamins.

The Cons of Almond Milk

• May not be suitable for those with nut allergies.
• Relatively expensive compared to other plant based milks.

Experience the Nutty Goodness of Almond Milk in Your Morning Cup of Tea.

3. Coconut Milk Alternative

Coconut milk is made from pressing fresh coconut meat with water, resulting in a creamy, milky liquid that offers a subtly sweet flavour.

This delicate flavouring makes it the perfect addition to any cup of tea, whether it's a regular black tea brew or an exotic chai latte. Enjoy the nutty goodness of coconut milk in your morning cuppa and experience something new every day.

When purchasing coconut milk, be sure to check the label for added sugars and preservatives as these can significantly affect its overall health benefits.

The Pros of Coconut Milk

• Sweet and creamy flavour profile.
• Rich in essential minerals and nutrients.
• Non dairy alternative for those with allergies or intolerance to cow's milk.
• A great source of healthy fats that can help support weight loss.

The Cons of Coconut Milk

• Can be too sweet for some compared to others.
• High in fat and calories, depending on the brand.

Experience the Sweetness of Coconut Milk for a Refreshing Cup of Tea.

4. Oat Milk for Tea Alternative

Oat milk is the newest rising star in the plant-based milk industry. This robust and creamy beverage has a light sweetness that pairs well with most hot beverages, making it an ideal choice for tea lovers.

It's made by simply mixing oats and water together and then straining out any remaining solids. Oat milk is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber to help nourish your body.

Plus, it's usually fortified with calcium and vitamin D for an extra dose of nutrients that are often lacking in other non-dairy milks. Enjoy the refreshing taste of oat milk as a delicious accompaniment to any cup of tea.

Oat milk emerged as the top choice for plant-based milk in the UK in 2020. It not only offers immense popularity but also stands out as one of the most environmentally friendly options. Another remarkable advantage is that it doesn't separate when used, serving a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The Pros of Oat Milk

• Light sweetness that pairs well with hot beverages like tea.
• Rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber to nourish your body.
• Fortified with calcium and vitamin D for extra nutrients.
• Doesn’t separate when used in recipes.

The Cons of Oat Milk

• Can be relatively expensive compared to other plant based milks.
• It has a high sugar content than other options.

Subtly Sweet Taste of Oat Milk for a Delicious Cup of Tea. Try oat milk today and experience its many benefits in your favorite tea recipes!

5. Cashew Milk Alternative

Cashew milk is a creamy and delicious type of plant-based milk that’s made from raw cashews. Its unique flavour profile works well with most hot beverages, including tea.

It's made by blending cashews with water and then straining out any remaining particles. This silky smooth liquid holds a subtle sweetness perfect for those who don’t like their tea too sweet.

Cashews are not only delicious, but they also offer significant health benefits. Approximately 75% of the fat in cashews is made up of unsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic acid, which contributes to heart health. Consuming cashew milk, which contains this beneficial fat, can help lower the risk of heart disease.

In addition to its health benefits, cashew milk is a delightful addition to your tea. This makes it an excellent choice for tea lovers who follow a vegan lifestyle.

The Pros of Cashew Milk

• Creamy texture that's perfect for hot beverages like tea.
• Subtle sweetness with no added sugar.
• Contains healthful fatty acids to support heart health.
• Suitable for vegans.

The Cons of Cashew Milk

• Can be relatively pricey compared to other plant based milks.
• Not as nutritious as other plant based milk options.

Delight in the Creamy Goodness of Cashew Milk for Your Cup of Tea. Find out why cashew milk is a favorite among tea lovers and make it part of your daily ritual.

6. Hemp Milk Alternative

Experience the extraordinary taste of hemp milk. Just like oat, almond, and cashew milk, it's crafted with pure water. No need to worry, it's all perfectly legal and absolutely delicious.

Hemp milk is made by blending water with hemp seeds from the Cannabis sativa plant. Unlike other Cannabis products, hemp milk does not have any mind-altering effects since it is made purely from the seeds, not the buds of the plant.

It's made by blending whole hemp seeds and water together to create a naturally thick and creamy liquid. Hemp milk provides an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, and it's also high in protein, minerals, and vitamins.

This nutrient-rich beverage is a great choice for vegans who are looking to increase their intake of essential fatty acids without relying on animal products. Plus, its subtle nutty flavour pairs well with most hot beverages like tea or coffee.

You may like to read our article: Hemp Tea Benefits

The Pros of Hemp Milk

• Rich in essential fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins.
• It can boost brain health and your immune system.
• A great source of plant proteins.
• Subtle nutty flavour that pairs well with tea.

The Cons of Hemp Milk

• Can be relatively expensive compared to other plant based milks.
• Not as widely available as other plant based milk alternatives for tea.

With a suttle Nutty Flavour of Hemp Milk, idel for Your Cup of Tea. Discover why hemp milk is a favorite among tea drinkers and enjoy its many health benefits with every cup!

7. Rice Milk Alternative

Rice milk is a unique type of plant-based milk that's made from boiled rice, brown rice syrup, and water. It has a mild flavour with a slightly sweet aftertaste.

Because it's hypoallergenic, this beverage is ideal for those who are allergic to dairy, soy, nut or any other types of food intolerances. Rice milk does not contain gluten, which makes it suitable for anyone with a gluten sensitivity.

In addition to its hypoallergenic properties, rice milk is also high in vitamins and minerals. It's a good source of vitamin B12 and other essential nutrients like magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and iron.

The lack of fat and cholesterol in rice milk makes it a popular choice among those who are health-conscious. Plus, its light flavour works well with hot beverages like tea, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to add extra sweetness to their cup!

The Pros of Rice Milk

• Hypoallergenic beverage ideal for those with intolerances.
• Contains vitamins and minerals to nourish the body.
• Low in fat and cholesterol, making it a healthy choice.
• Light flavour pairs well with hot beverages like tea.

The Cons of Rice Milk

• It splits in tea, although not as badly as other plant milks
• This alternative has a high carbohydrate content.

Enjoy the versatility and flavour of rice milk in your favorite tea!

8. Quinoa Milk Alternative

Quinoa milk is a unique type of plant-based milk that's made from quinoa, filtered water and other natural ingredients. Its creamy texture and slightly sweet flavour make it an excellent choice for hot beverages like tea.

This beverage has been gaining in popularity due to its high nutrient content. It contains fiber, calcium, phosphorus, iron and other essential vitamins and minerals.

It's also a great source of plant-based proteins, making it an ideal choice for vegans or those who follow a lactose-free diet. Plus, its subtle nutty flavour pairs well with most hot beverages like tea.

The Pros of Quinoa Milk

• Nutrient-rich and high in essential vitamins and minerals.
• Ggluten-free for individuals with celiac disease.
• Contains plant proteins, making it an ideal choice for vegans.
• Subtle nutty flavour that pairs well with tea.

The Cons of Quinoa Milk

• Can be relatively expensive compared to other plant based milks.
• The availability in the UK is limited compared to other plant based milk alternatives.

Indulge in the smooth and creamy goodness of quinoa milk for your cup of tea. Discover why quinoa milk is quickly becoming a favorite among tea lovers and start adding it to your daily routine!

9. Macadamia Milk Alternative

Did you know that macadamia milk is primarily made up of water, with just 3% macadamia nuts? Despite this, it manages to be richer, creamier, and smoother than other milk alternatives, making it a top choice among tea enthusiasts.

Macadamia milk is one of the healthier choice for dairy-free milk. With only one-third of the calories and half the fat found in cow's milk, it's the perfect option for those seeking a lighter alternative.

Plus, its low carbohydrate content makes it a top pick for people with diabetes or anyone wanting to cut back on carbs.

The Pros of Macadamia Milk

• Low in calories and fat, making it a healthier choice.
• High polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats.
• Creamy texture that pairs well with hot beverages like tea.
• A delicious nutty flavour that adds sweetness to your cup!

The Cons of Macadamia Milk

• Difficult to find and you might need to order it online.
• It’s more expensive than other vegan milk.

With its nutrient-rich content, it's the perfect choice for those wanting to stay healthy without sacrificing flavour.

10. Hazelnut Milk Alternative

Hazelnut milk is a delicious plant-based alternative for those looking to avoid dairy and soy. It's made from water, organic hazelnuts, and other natural ingredients. Its creamy texture makes it perfect for hot beverages like tea or coffee.

If you're lactose intolerant or vegan, this beverage is a great option. It's free of lactose, gluten and cholesterol, making it a healthier alternative for those with certain dietary restrictions.

In addition to its hypoallergenic properties, hazelnut milk is also high in essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, folic acid, calcium and vitamin B12. Plus, its subtle nutty flavour pairs well with hot beverages like tea.

The Pros of Hazelnut Milk

• Hypoallergenic beverage ideal for those with lactose intolerance or vegan diets.
• Enhance skin and hair health with the power of vitamin E.
• Low in fat and cholesterol, making it a healthy choice.
• Pairs well with hot beverages like tea.

The Cons of Hazelnut Milk

• It can be expensive, as it is difficult to find in some stores.
• Its unique flavour might not suit everyone.
• Hazelnut milk has a high sugar content and lacks protein.

The delicious nuttiness of hazelnut milk with every cup of tea! Enjoy its creamy texture and subtle sweetness in the comfort of your own home. This plant-based milk alternative is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it the perfect choice for those wanting to stay healthy.

It's hypoallergenic properties make it accessible to those with dietary restrictions or food allergies. Indulge in its smooth flavour and creamy texture for a unique tea experience!

11. Pea Milk Alternative 

The newest player in the milk alternative scene is pea milk. This beverage is made from yellow peas, filtered water and other natural ingredients. It's a great source of plant-based proteins and essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium.

It's also low in fat and cholesterol, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to watch their calorie intake or maintain a healthy weight. Plus, its light flavour pairs well with hot beverages like tea.

Pea milk shows promise as a more sustainable choice for the environment than other plant-based milk alternatives for tea. However it has a smaller farming footprint compared to almond milk. The distance it travels to reach consumers may vary depending on where the crops are grown.

The Pros of Pea Milk

• Low in fat and cholesterol, making it an ideal choice for weight loss.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals to nourish the body.
• Rich source of plant-based proteins.
• A good choice for hot beverages like tea.

The Cons of Pea Milk

• It can be expensive and difficult to find in some stores
• Opt for unsweetened varieties for a healthier choice.
• Its unique taste might not be for everyone.

Enjoy the richness of pea milk in your favorite cup of tea! Discover why it's quickly becoming a popular choice among health-conscious tea drinkers for its nutritional value and sustainability.

12. Potato Milk Alternatives

The youngest milk alternative on the market is potato milk. This beverage is made from a combination of potatoes. Filtered water and often includes additional ingredients like pea protein and rapeseed oil to enhance its texture and flavour. It's creamy texture makes it perfect for hot beverages like tea or coffee.

Potato milk contains low levels of fat and cholesterol, making it an ideal choice for those hoping to stay healthy. It's also a great source of proteins and essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron.

Plus, it has the potential to be the most sustainable choice for milk alternatives. The farming footprint is smaller compared to almond milk. Its production releases fewer carbon emissions than traditional dairy products.

The Pros of Potato Milk

• Low in fat and cholesterol, making it an ideal choice for weight loss.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals to nourish the body.
• Rich source of plant-based proteins.
• Creamy texture that pairs well with hot beverages like tea.
• High potential for sustainability compared to other milk alternatives.

The Cons of Potato Milk

• It can be expensive and difficult to find in some stores.
• Opt for unsweetened varieties for a healthier choice.
• Its unusual flavour might not be for everyone.

Discover why potato milk is quickly becoming the go-to beverage among health conscious tea drinkers! Enjoy its creamy texture and unique flavour while reaping the health benefits of its nutritional content.

Plus, it's the perfect choice for those wanting to reduce their carbon footprint and stay eco-friendly with every cup! Enjoy a delicious cup of tea without any guilt.

13. Flax Milk Alternatives 

Flax milk is a great non-dairy alternative for those looking to avoid soy or nut-based products. It's made from water, ground organic flax seed and other natural ingredients. Its light flavour makes it perfect for hot beverages like tea or coffee.

If you're lactose intolerant or vegan, this beverage is a great option. It's free of lactose, gluten and cholesterol, making it a healthier alternative for those with certain dietary restrictions.

In addition to its hypoallergenic properties, flax milk is also high in essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, vitamin D, calcium and omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, its subtle nutty flavour pairs well with hot beverages like tea.

The Pros of Flax Milk

• Hypoallergenic beverage ideal for those with lactose intolerance or vegan diets.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals to nourish the body.
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help regulate blood cholesterol levels.
• Low in fat and cholesterol, making it a healthy choice.

The Cons of Flax Milk

• It can be expensive and difficult to find in some stores
• There is no protein is found in flax milk.
• Its unique nutty flavour might not suit everyone.
• Needs to stay refrigerated for a longer shelf life.

Discover why flax milk is quickly becoming a popular choice among health conscious tea drinkers! Enjoy its light flavour and creamy texture without the added guilt. With its high nutrition value and minimal environmental impact, you can indulge in every cup of tea knowing that it's good for your body as well as the planet.

So What’s the Best Milk Alternative for Tea?

We’ve listed thirteen great dairy-free milk options, but which one is the best?

If you’re looking to replace regular cow’s milk with dairy-free alternatives, your top option will depend on personal preference and if you have any allergies.

But if you want our opinion, here are our ultimate plant milk choices to use with black tea bags or loose leaf tea.

Our Winner: Oat Milk Is the Best Milk Alternative for Tea

Our favourite dairy-free milk for tea is oat milk. It’s deliciously creamy and adds a natural sweetness to black tea.

Plus, as the UK’s new favourite plant milk, it’s easy to find in any supermarket or cafe. It’s also versatile and can make a great cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate — so it’s a good one to have in the fridge,

Our Runner Up: Cashew Milk

Cashew milk offers many of the same benefits as oat milk but with a few key differences. It’s lower in calories, fat and carbohydrates, and is suitable for those with diabetes.

So why didn’t it make our number one? Two reasons — first, it’s not easy to get hold of, and second, it’s not suitable for those with nut allergies.

Tips on Making Tea With Milk Alternatives

Making a perfect cup of tea with milk alternatives requires more than just choosing the right kind of milk. Here are some tips that will help you master the art of brewing a delicious cup of tea with plant-based milks:

1. Use cold or room temperature milk for the best results. Hot milk can cause lumps and make the tea taste overly sweet, while cold milk might not dissolve properly.
2. Start with small amounts of milk, as it's easier to add more if needed than to take it away.
3. Use a blender or whisk to mix the milk into your tea for a smoother, creamier brew.
4. If using coconut milk, heat it before adding it to your tea as this will help dissolve the fat in the milk and create a better texture and flavour.
5. Not all milks are suitable for boiling - some may react unpredictably or form lumps. Check the label of the milk alternative for instructions on how to use it best.
6. For a frothy cup of tea, opt for oats or soy milks as they produce more foam than other alternatives.
7. Add your milk alternative after the tea is brewed and servings are poured out - do not boil the milk with the tea.

Follow these tips and you'll be sure to get a perfect cup of tea each time! Enjoy!

Why Choose a Dairy Milk Alternative?

If you’re thinking of trying non-dairy milk for a change, or giving up all kinds of dairy products, hopefully, this article has helped.

There are many reasons to seek an alternative to regular cow’s milk — you may have decided to go vegan, or developed an intolerance, or maybe it’s just personal preference.

But whatever your reason, you’re definitely not alone in turning to non-dairy milk for tea.

Did you know, for example, that an estimated 68% of the world population is lactose intolerant?

Rates of lactose intolerance vary significantly between regions. While in some areas of Northern Europe, it’s as low as 10%, in parts of Asia and Africa it can be as high as 95%!

Then, in addition to the millions of people who can’t digest dairy products, some choose a dairy-free diet for personal, health or ethical reasons, such as vegans.

Millions of people around the world buy dairy-free milk for one reason or another. So when you make the switch to a nut or plant-based milk, you’ll be in good company. With so much demand, dairy alternatives are being constantly developed and improved.

Whether you’ve found the best milk alternative for tea already, or you’re still trying different options, you can make sure your brew always tastes authentic and hits the spot by choosing quality tea.

However we’ve got tea drinkers covered with the finest selection of tea, including both loose leaf teas and tea bags. Shop tea and browse all types and types, including herbal, chai, matcha, fruit and green tea.