While I may not be a professional baker, Celine Fabre of Cuisine by Celine certainly is. A classically French-trained chef, Chef Celine helps individuals improve their diets for various medical reasons, such as leaky gut, diabetes, and cancer. Though we may not be identical in our culinary expertise, we both share a deep passion for enhancing the well-being of others.
Many of Chef Celine’s clients have dietary restrictions that prevent them from consuming dairy, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Opting for plant-based milk alternatives not only benefits your health but also the environment and animal welfare. Plant-based milk now makes up 15% of total milk sales in the U.S., with that number expected to rise in the coming years.
When it comes to baking with plant-based milk substitutes, it’s crucial to consider the flavor and texture you desire in your recipe to prevent any mishaps. Chef Celine recommends incorporating nut milks into baking, as they pair well with sweet foods and offer a creamy consistency.
It’s important to take into account dietary restrictions, nutritional aspects, and taste preferences when selecting a plant-based milk for your baked goods. Chef Celine advises sticking to plain, unsweetened, or original versions to avoid unnecessary added sugars.
For savory dishes like bechamel or purees, rice, pea, flax, or hemp milk are excellent choices. These plant-based milks can be used in place of regular milk without sacrificing flavor. For sweet treats, almond, hazelnut, walnut, cashew, macadamia, coconut, and oat milk all bring unique flavors and textures to your desserts.
If none of the standard plant-based milk options work for you, consider trying water lentil milk or pecan milk as alternatives. Chef Celine creates homemade pecan milk for a client who can’t tolerate traditional milk alternatives, using it in various recipes to achieve delightful flavors.
Whether you’re baking muffins, cakes, savory dishes, or sweet treats, there’s a plant-based milk out there that will suit your needs perfectly. Experiment with different options to find the one that enhances the flavor and texture of your creations.
