Which Plant Based Milks Make The Best Dairy Substitutions In Baking?

Our answer

Many people are looking at alternatives to dairy products and both soy milk and almond milk are good substitutes in baking. They both have a consistency similar to milk and can generally be substituted directly for cow's milk in a recipe. Soy and almond milk tend to be slightly sweeter than cow's milk (even the unsweetened versions) and baked goods can brown more quickly, so it is advisable to check about 10 minutes before the end of the baking time in your recipe and shield areas which may be browning too fast with aluminium foil, if necessary.

Rice milk is another substitute but tends to be thinner than cow's milk so is not always as good as a substitute for baking. However if you use rice milk and are having variable results then for each 250mls (1 cup) rice milk substitute 30ml (2 tablespoons) of the milk with a neutral flavoured oil such as sunflower, vegetable or groundnut (peanut) oil. Rice milk is usually slightly less sweet in taste than soy or almond milk so can be a better substitute in savoury dishes. Soy milk can also be adapted as an alternative to buttermilk, simply stir 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white wine vinegar into 250mls (1 cup) soy milk and leave to stand for 5 minutes before using.