Are Plant-Based Creamers Any Good? Our Honest Review

Last Updated on April 22, 2024 by Shavy Jain

Vegans, have you tried plant-based creamers yet? These non-dairy creamers that come from soy, almond, coconut, and oat milk, and other dairy alternatives, have emerged as healthier options for those looking to avoid animal products without sacrificing taste. 

With the rise of veganism and the understanding of allergies from animal-based dairy, plant-based creamers are gaining traction in the market. 

So, if morning coffee is non-negotiable for you, but the dairy creamer is a no-go, then you’re in the right place. This article covers the growing world of plant-based creamers, if they are any good, and how they stack up against traditional dairy products.

What Are Plant-Based Creamers?

The market for vegans continues to expand, with plant-based creamers becoming the new star risers. Made from different plant sources such as soy, almond, coconut, and oat milk, these are non-traditional substitutes to your everyday dairy creamer. 

Non-dairy creamers carry the rich flavor and creamy texture of classic cream, but they don’t have any animal derivatives. Hence, they are safe for lactose intolerants and people with animal-based dairy allergies.

The manufacturing process of plant-based creamers includes extraction, processing, and fortification with vitamins and minerals to enhance nutritional value.

Are Plant-Based Creamers Healthy?

If you’ve been wondering if plant-based creamers are healthy, we would like to answer your query. In general, plant-based creamers are a healthier option than those made with dairy. Why? Plant-based and non-dairy creamers contain less cholesterol and saturated fat. 

However, not all plant-based creamers are created equal; some may contain high levels of added sugars and artificial additives. It’s essential to read labels carefully.

For instance, almond and soy-based creamers usually provide a good balance of taste and health benefits, containing essential nutrients without too much fat or sugar. Whereas rich and tropical in flavour, coconut creamer, prepared from coconut milk, also contains a healthy fat called medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can act as a rapid energy source.

Plant Based Creamers Vs. Animal-Based Creamers

Plant-based and animal based creamers are different in terms of taste, nutritional value, and texture. Here’s how they stack against each other:

How To Use Plant-based Creamers Everyday

Plant-based creamers are versatile and dairy-free alternatives that can be included in your everyday usage. From coffee to cupcake frosting, here’s a breakdown of the different types of plant-based creamers can be used in the kitchen:

1) Coffee Creamers: Typically made from almond, soy, coconut, oat, or cashew bases, these creamers are designed to add a smooth, creamy texture to coffee without dairy. They often come in various flavors, such as vanilla, hazelnut, or caramel, adding a special touch to your morning brew.

2) Cream Cheese: Plant-based cream cheeses, like those offered by brands such as Philadelphia, are made from nuts (like cashews) or tofu. They are crafted to mimic the texture and taste of traditional cream cheese and can be used in the same way. Spread them on bagels, use them in cheesecake recipes, or incorporate them into dips.

3) Ice Cream: Plant-based ice creams use bases like coconut milk, almond milk, or soy milk instead of dairy. These ice creams cater to those who avoid dairy while still providing the creamy texture and sweetness of traditional ice cream. They’re great for desserts or as a cool treat.

4) Cooking and Baking: Beyond their basic uses, plant-based creamers can be highly functional in cooking and baking. For instance, you can whip certain types of plant-based cream to create light, airy toppings for desserts. They can also be used in soups to add creaminess without the dairy, making dishes like mushroom or pumpkin soup richer and more flavorful.

All things considered, depending on the foundation (such as almond or soy) used, these plant-based substitutes not only let dairy-free people enjoy creamy textures and flavours but also provide nutritional benefits like lower cholesterol and extra vitamins.

How To Pick Sustainable Plant-based Creamers

The sustainability of plant-based creamers depends on sourcing, production, and packaging. At Ecowiser, we recommend products that are ethically sourced, with organic ingredients to support eco-friendly practices and reduce environmental impact. We also prefer brands that minimize energy consumption, emissions, and waste, by choosing products with minimal, recyclable packaging to further mitigate waste and support environmentally conscious brands.

Selecting the right plant-based creamer involves considering your dietary restrictions and preferences. Look for products that meet specific needs, such as nut-free, soy-free, or without added sugars. The ingredient list and nutritional label are your best tools here; they can tell you a lot about the creamer’s health benefits and potential allergens.

Lastly, we look for brands with certifications such as USDA Organic or Fair Trade. Seasonal and local solutions reduce emissions associated with transport even more, promoting biodiversity and bolstering local economies.

How To Make Plant-Based A Creamer At Home

Making your plant-based ice cream and creamers isn’t rocket science. Homemade creamers might just involve mixing water, your plant milk of choice, and maybe some coconut oil for extra richness.

Here’s a recipe for a basic almond-based plant creamer:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of raw almonds
• 3 to 4 cups of water (depending on how thick you want it)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons coconut oil (for that rich, creamy feel)
• A sweetener to taste (optional, but a bit of vanilla extract or maple syrup can add a nice touch)
• A pinch of salt for flavor

Directions:

Step 1) Soak your almonds overnight in water to soften them up. This makes them easier to blend and helps your body digest them better.

Step 2) Drain the almonds and toss them into your blender with fresh water. The more water you add, the thinner your creamer will be.

Step 3) Add the coconut oil, sweetener, and salt.

Step 4) Blend everything until it’s smooth. You might need a high-powered blender to get it silky smooth.

Step 5) Strain the mixture using a nut milk bag or a fine mesh strainer to get rid of any almond bits. This step is key for a smooth creamer.

Step 6) Taste and adjust. If it’s not sweet or rich enough for you, adjust the sweetener or coconut oil.

And there you go! Pour it into a jar, and store it in the fridge. Shake well before using, as it might separate a bit when sitting. This homemade creamer is perfect for your morning coffee, or you can even use it in recipes that call for cream. Plus, it’s all natural, and you made it yourself—how cool is that?

Also check out: 10 Best Non-Dairy Creamers of 2024 for Coffee Enthusiasts

Aye Aye For Plant Based Creamers!

Plant-based creamers are worth a try, and switching to non-dairy creamers can be beneficial for both the health of your family, and the environment. These products offer a feasible alternative to your dairy needs, without compromising on taste, texture, and nutritional value. 

If you’re new to the world of plant-based products, we have an excellent list of recommendations for you. Check out the plant-based alternatives together at Ecowiser.

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