Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or just don’t like the taste of cow’s milk, almond milk is an option for drinking, creaming your coffee, and baking. It’s rich in protein and minerals, high in omega-3 fatty acids, and easy on the digestive system (assuming you aren’t allergic to nuts). With a wide variety now available across L.A. (some companies even deliver!), we set out to taste several local and nationally available brands. Tasting notes, below. Did we miss your favorite? Let us know in the comments section, below.
Texture | Flavor | Overall | |
Almond Milk L.A. | Thin, smooth | Slightly sweeter than cow’s milk | Fine. |
Mylk | Watery | Cloyingly sweet; not good with cereal | OK to temper black coffee. |
Moon Juice | Almost exactly the texture of cow’s milk | Vanilla bean and wildflower honey don’t overpower the rich almond flavor | Perfect for drinking out of a glass, straight, steamed (it froths!) for a latte, or with cookies. |
Pressed Juicery | Comfortingly thick, but slightly gritty | A bit too sweet, though the chocolate version is well-balanced | A quick hit of carbs and protein. |
Whole Foods Brand Organic Almond Milk | Separates easily | Could taste more like almonds | Made us want to make our own. |
Blue Diamond Almond Breeze | Fairly smooth | Vanilla flavor can be too strong; original flavor tastes flat | The most satisfying widely available brand. |
Trader Joe’s Almond Milk | Watery and gritty | Like almond skins; deep almond flavor | Good for granola. |