Out of Coconut milk, one case
Can you substitute almond milk for coconut milk?
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Almond milk (liquid)
Same amount as the coconut milk
Yes, you can substitute almond milk for coconut milk in most recipes. Use 1:1 ratio for liquid applications, or add cornstarch for thicker consistency.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- baking
One casethe full coconut milk card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of coconut milk | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Almond milk (liquid)baking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Almond milk + cornstarchcurry | 1 cup almond milk + 1 tbsp cornstarch per 1 cup coconut milkTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Almond milk + coconut oilbaking | 1 cup almond milk + 1 tbsp coconut oil per 1 cup coconut milkWorks | Works |
| 4 | Almond milk + cashew butterbaking | 1 cup almond milk + 1 tbsp cashew butter per 1 cup coconut milkTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Almond milk + arrowroot powdercurry | 1 cup almond milk + 1 tbsp arrowroot powder per 1 cup coconut milkTweak it | Tweak it |
Almond milk (liquid)
different taste, similar texture
Almond milk provides similar moisture and texture to coconut milk in liquid applications. Good for most recipes where you want plant-based moisture.
- Best for
- baking, smoothies, sauces, when you want plant-based, vegan recipes
Almond milk has a slightly nutty flavor but provides similar moisture and texture. Choose unsweetened for savory dishes.
Almond milk + cornstarch
different taste, similar texture
Thickened almond milk that provides similar consistency to coconut milk. Good for when you want plant-based creaminess.
- Best for
- curry, soup, when you want plant-based, vegan recipes, thick applications
Almond milk is thinner than coconut milk, so cornstarch helps thicken it. Mix cornstarch with cold liquid before adding to hot mixtures.
Almond milk + coconut oil
similar taste and texture
Almond milk with added coconut oil that provides similar richness and a hint of coconut flavor. Good for when you want plant-based creaminess.
- Best for
- baking, sauces, when you want coconut flavor, vegan recipes, creamy applications
Almond milk provides good moisture, and coconut oil adds richness and coconut flavor. Use unrefined coconut oil for best flavor.
Almond milk + cashew butter
different taste, similar texture
Almond milk with added cashew butter that provides similar richness and creaminess. Good for when you want plant-based creaminess.
- Best for
- baking, sauces, when you want creaminess, vegan recipes, rich applications
Almond milk provides good moisture, and cashew butter adds richness and creaminess. Blend well to avoid lumps.
Almond milk + arrowroot powder
different taste, similar texture
Almond milk with added arrowroot powder that provides similar consistency to coconut milk. Good for when you want plant-based creaminess.
- Best for
- curry, soup, when you want plant-based, vegan recipes, thick applications
Almond milk is thinner than coconut milk, so arrowroot powder helps thicken it. Mix with cold liquid before adding to hot mixtures.
How it behaves in this recipe
When substituting almond milk for coconut milk, it's important to consider the different flavor profiles and consistency. The recommended substitutes work because they provide similar moisture content while offering different flavor profiles that can work well in many recipes.
Tips for substituting coconut milk
5 tips- For baking, almond milk works best in recipes that can handle the nutty flavor
- The key to successful substitution is maintaining the right moisture content and consistency
- Always use unsweetened almond milk for savory dishes to avoid unwanted sweetness
- Common mistakes to avoid: using sweetened almond milk in savory dishes, not thickening for creamy applications, incorrect ratios
- For best results, taste your recipe and adjust seasoning to compensate for the different flavor profile
Notes on coconut milk
- Use different almond milk brands for varying creaminess levels
- Try adding coconut extract to almond milk for authentic coconut flavor
- Experiment with different thickening agents (cornstarch, arrowroot) for desired consistency
Questions
5 questionsCan I use almond milk instead of coconut milk in baking?
Yes, almond milk works well as a substitute for coconut milk in most baking recipes. Use a 1:1 ratio and choose unsweetened for savory baked goods.
What's the difference between almond milk and coconut milk?
Almond milk is made from almonds and has a nutty flavor, while coconut milk is made from coconut and has a tropical flavor. Both are plant-based but have different taste profiles.
Why doesn't my almond milk substitute work in recipes?
Common issues include using sweetened almond milk in savory dishes, not thickening for creamy applications, or using the wrong ratio. Always use unsweetened and thicken when needed.
Can I use almond milk instead of coconut milk in curry?
Yes, but you'll need to thicken it with cornstarch. Mix 1 cup almond milk with 1 tablespoon cornstarch for best results in curry.
What's the best almond milk substitute for coconut milk?
For most applications, use almond milk in a 1:1 ratio. For creamy applications like curry or soup, add cornstarch or coconut oil to thicken and add richness.